Every client is different and has their own needs, especially when we are working on branding imagery. I really love going through the process with clients who are developing their brand.
Amy was revamping her business and brand, Sawyer McDonald Communication, and had a clear vision for what wanted to show in the images she used on her brand new website as well as in marketing materials. We talked through everything from colors, to wardrobe, to the look and feel of the images. It is a process that I feel is essential to creating images that will be used for business. It is involved and thought-provoking but the outcome is more in line with both the client’s vision and my vision as a photographer.
Branding Imagery with Personality
With a very high-end customer base, her images need to reflect that but also give a little insight into who she was. We opted to work in her home outside Lubec, Maine as that was where she did a lot of work if she wasn’t traveling. Amy had a beautiful view of the mountains and we set up in her spacious living room for a few different looks.
A confident, professional portrait that would be used for websites and speaking engagements was the first priority. A neutral background and a formal look were used so that she stood out.
.jpg)
.jpg)
A personal brand is its own unique thing and sometimes standard stock photos may not quite show who you are and what you do. I always recommend getting some custom stock images that can be used in a variety of different ways on websites. From banner images or darkened with text overlaid as a call to action. There are many ways to incorporate you and a little more personality through those images.
Coming across as overly confident can sometimes be a detriment when it comes to a personal brand. It’s not all business all the time and a little smile can do wonders. Amy was aware of this and wanted to make sure we got some approachable expressions and poses that really showed what it was like working with her.
We ventured out to a nearby lighthouse to show her favorite places and where she comes from. This is important when it comes to branding imagery, especially if it is a personal brand and you are the face of the brand. Show your personality.
It was an absolute honor working with Amy, thank you.
Thank you also to Stephanie from Flawless Pros, Onsite Hair and Make-up for working with us and making the trek up with me.
I live in rural Downeast Maine, but I’m working with billion-dollar clients regularly, so my personal brand needs to be able to hold its own in terms of polish and presentation, not to mention authenticity. Frankly, there aren’t a lot of people in my neighborhood who do what you do, who can level up my personal brand imagery for Fortune 1000 clients and private equity firms. You were exactly what I needed and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. As a communication professional, I’m rarely in front of the camera — more often, I’m helping clients to be there instead. So this was unique and a little unfamiliar. You and your team kept it real, put me at ease, and made it very easy to throw out genuine smiles thanks to your sense of humor. I appreciate you guys so much, and would recommend you to anybody.
– Amy McDonald
