Posts tagged personal branding
Elevating Your Brand : Michelle’s Magnetic Branding Photoshoot
GIF - a series of images - showing Michelle's sassy personality and she coyly dips her sunglasses down to smile and laugh at the camera. She's wearing a black cotton dress with capped ruffled sleeves. Her sunglasses are flared like wings.

Female business owner, Michelle, gives some coy sass to the camera for a gif to showcase her fun-loving personality during her business branding photoshoot.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments in our business journeys happen when we step out of our usual surroundings and immerse ourselves in new experiences. That's exactly what Michelle Fernandez did when she flew all the way from Texas to Greensboro, North Carolina, for a mastermind event. Naturally, we planned her branding session to coincide with this trip, since we’re only a stone’s throw away in Winston Salem. Her bubbly spirit and infectious laugh filled the space from the moment she arrived.

A dynamic and insightful business strategist, Michelle is known for her expertise in data-driven marketing. Specializing in helping six-figure earners optimize their Facebook ads and marketing funnels, she empowers entrepreneurs to break through plateaus and achieve rapid growth. She transforms complex data into actionable strategies, guiding her clients towards predictable and profitable business expansion in a way that is personalized and approachable - all the while empowering her clients’ success with her vibrant personality.

Michelle is not only an expert in her field but also brings a sharp, insightful approach to everything she does. She has an undeniable presence that immediately draws you in, ready to soak up the next story she’s going to tell! With the ability to weave her expertise into relatable stories with admirable clarity, it was essential we create photography that was magnetic to a clients who were hungry for success, desired one-on-one attention, was more than ready to make the next move - once they know what it was, of course - and enjoyed high energy leadership.

Female business owner, Michelle, stands outfront of the Greensboro location we utilized for her branding session, with her hands raised to her face as she cheerfully calls to her audience.

Calling out to all business owners who need a dashboard! Well, that is the intention of this image we created for Michelle during her on location branding photoshoot. This photograph can also be used to celebrate her clients and make announcements. Versatility is key to the longevity of marketing images.

Michelle’s branding session was not just about getting pretty photographs; it was about capturing her essence and the authenticity that drives her success. Even though we were on location, we made sure to incorporate the colors of her brand—blacks, purples, greys, and whites—into every shot. She wore a pair of sparkly black cowboy boots that added a unique, personal flair and stuck to one simple, professional, and well-styled outfit. Upon our recommendation on how to best prepare for her branding photoshoot, she came prepared with her laptop, travel bag, branded notebooks, and branded desk accessories, which allowed us to infuse her personal taste and brand identity into the session. This attention to detail added a layer of intention to her final photographs.

One of the highlights of Michelle’s session was our collaboration with Mallory, owner and founder of The Girlboss Agency. Together, we created authority reels for Michelle to share her expertise on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. These reels are designed to help her grow her audience and further establish her as a thought leader in her field.

Michelle’s excitement about the results of her session was palpable as she had such a hard time choosing her favorite images - and even ended up upgrading to the full gallery. It’s always incredibly fulfilling to see a client so thrilled with their images, knowing they have a gallery full of strategic, marketable photographs that truly represent their brand. In the end, we were thrilled to have provide Michelle with updated images for her social media and website that she loves!

Needless to say, it was an absolute joy to work with someone so passionate and dedicated to her craft. If you're a female business owner looking to elevate your brand with authentic, heartfelt visuals, let’s create something beautiful together. Embrace your unique strengths and let your brand shine.

Michelle, female business owner of The Michelle Fernandez a dashboard service, rocking her sparkly black cowboy boots as part of her on location branding photoshoot styling.

Catching a full smiling, high energy headshot was essential for capturing the brand voice of female business owner, Michelle Fernandez for her on location branding photoshoot.

Wide horizontal photographs are great for all brands! This image we created for Michelle during her branding photoshoot can be used as a branded LinkedIn banner, website header or footer or for any marketing materials which need space for text.

Female business owner, Michelle Fernandez, often uses her phone for consultations, capturing tutorial videos, quick instructions for clients and snapping behind the scenes of her days as an entrepreneur. This photograph, along with the others we created for her during her on location branding photoshoot, will be strategic for Michelle in a variety of ways.

Female business owner, Michelle Fernandez, poses with a smile at the desk we styled for her on location branding photoshoot.

Embracing Confidence: Joan's Personal Branding Session

Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Joan creating personal branding portraits for an upcoming talk she was giving with a peer. While Joan holds an esteemed position in her field, she was struggling with her image. Her peer, whose photographs would be next to hers on all the marketing material for the event and who would, of course, be standing on stage with her - in a word - polished. While Joan knew that her personality was different than her peer’s, she still felt like she wouldn’t measure up to her peer's pristine appearance. Determined to feel like she belonged beside her companion both in her own eyes and the eyes of the audience, she decided to invest in portraits that would elevate her presence while building her confidence, helping her feel like a true equal.

Often, when I speak with someone and they are vulnerable with their insecurities, I anticipate body language that matches the mindset. Body language is more of an opportunity than an issue, as I know we can work together to establish an authentic, confident presence. As we began Joan’s session, however, I was immediately struck by her poise. She exuded confidence - in every angle and expression. I was a bit baffled, wondering if I’d accidentally mislabeled my consultation notes. The empowered woman I saw before me was nothing of what I expected. She effortlessly settled into herself.

Bemused and smiling, I showed Joan the photographs on the back of my camera commenting on how stunning and confident she was, expressing how assuredly she moved. She couldn't believe it. She looked at the photographs with a mix of relief and disbelief, exclaiming, "Really?! That's a relief. I feel so fake and vulnerable." It was a moment that spoke volumes.

Imposter syndrome is a sneaky creature that affects so many high-achieving individuals, regardless of their talents and success. We all have moments when we compare ourselves to others, thinking we fall short. But here's the thing—we rarely know the full story behind someone's seemingly perfect image. We don't see the struggles, the doubts, and the insecurities they may be grappling with. We're all on our own unique journeys, and it's essential to remember that.

So, as Joan smiled in front of my camera, I couldn't help but admire her tenacity and determination to overcome her self doubt. She was a reminder that true beauty and strength come from embracing our potential, not belittling it; from seeing who we are and what we have to offer and moving towards being the best of ourselves despite what insecurities may be gnawing at us. It's about recognizing our worthiness, celebrating our accomplishments, and showing ourselves some much-needed compassion.

In the end, Joan’s portraits showed a woman who was resolutely overcoming her doubts and fears. They were a testament to her journey and a reminder to us all that we can have success in every opportunity that comes our way if we allow ourselves. Each of us has our own unique brilliance and inner strength, waiting to be discovered and shared with the world. Embrace your confidence, embrace your authenticity, and embrace the beauty of your own remarkable journey. It is through embracing our true selves that we shine the brightest.

Anika Rowe's Headshot Session: Portraying Approachability, Professionalism, and Dynamic Energy

Anika Rowe, a newly licensed real estate agent affiliated with Caldwell Banker, recently booked her headshot session with us to enhance her online presence and elevate her professional image. With the intention of utilizing her headshots for the company website and her business cards, Anika wanted to make sure her headshot would convey her approachablility, friendliness and her relaxed, yet professional, demeanor.

During our initial consultation, it was easy to see Anika’s determination and her desire to delve deep into the real estate network so she could truly serve her clients well. We loved how direct she was as she voiced her desire to maximize her networking opportunities, explained her plan to market herself extensively, and her strategy to establishing connections with a wide range of industry peers. Her intention was clear: to be a driving force in her industry, readily accessible, and open to conversations with anyone seeking real estate guidance.

To capture the essence of Anika's aspirations, we crafted her headshot session with a visual narrative that reflected her vibrant energy and professional drive. Her desire to be actively involved in serving her clients being present out in the field, rather than confined to a desk, led us to avoiding plain backgrounds for her headshots. Anika agreed this was a fitting approach for her! We carefully considered the locations, ensuring they encapsulated Anika's commitment to being active and engaged. From urban landscapes to refined, minimalistic settings, each location was handpicked to resonate with her prospective clients, evoking a sense of trust, familiarity, and confidence.

With a meticulously curated wardrobe that exuded professionalism while retaining a touch of her approachable nature, Anika's outfits perfectly complemented her strengths, further reinforcing her brand identity. Her palpable drive, radiant smile, relaxed postures, and friendly expressions conveyed warmth - which will make it easy for potential clients to envision themselves having an enjoyable experience selling or buying their house with her!

Throughout the session, we worked collaboratively to create headshots that not only represented her current goals but also embodied her potential for growth and expansion. We aimed to capture the genuine connection she would establish with her clients, showcasing her dedication to understanding their needs and providing unparalleled service. Looking back at her session, the whole experience was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her real estate career. Anika is now well-positioned to realize her professional goals, connecting with a diverse network of individuals and solidifying her reputation as an accessible and trusted partner in the real estate industry!

10 Brand Photographs Every Small Business Needs

As a small business owner who wants to make the most polished and professional impression you can to establish a report with your potential customers, you know the importance of a consistent aesthetic that is recognizable and easily linked with your brand. You value consistency and brand recognition for your business whether you’re posting on social media, being featured in a publication, featuring a product or service in an advertisement or simply connecting one-on-one in person with your customers.

Keeping a consistent aesthetic to help your people connect with your brand is a detailed process. That’s why, when it comes to creating the most useful collection of brand photographs, we start with our 10 fundamental brand photographs that every small business needs and then build from there.


  1. Headshot

    Headshots are a great way to have an immediate, personal connection with the viewer. They can be used to introduce your team members on your website and social media platforms, letting your clients know who they are and their specialties.
    Headshots can also be a great option to have on hand to quickly send to a publication that may be writing a feature on a specific individual and their skills/contributions. Headshots are some of the most basic and versatile photographs you can use as a business owner.

Headshot created to capture the personal brand of Donna M, a local Publications Manager.  | Winston-Salem Headshot and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

Headshot created to capture the personal brand of Donna M, a local Publications Manager. | Winston-Salem Headshot and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern


Staff portrait created during a headshot and branding session for local Winston-Salem small business Salem Law - including the very important office pet! | Winston-Salem Small Business Photographer | Jasper & Fern

Staff portrait created during a headshot and branding session for local Winston-Salem small business Salem Law - including the very important office pet! | Winston-Salem Small Business Photographer | Jasper & Fern

2. Your Team

Portraits of your team and staff together are a great way to showcase the atmosphere of your company. The relationship between co-workers and between the company owner and their employees gives a customer valuable insight into how they may be treated and the general values of your company.

Some of our favorite ways to use these professional portraits are for your website About or Contact page, thank you cards and greeting cards, and for sharing news involving your whole team.


Brand photograph for Pfafftown, NC small business, Riverside Farm and Garden, showcasing the friendly and informative atmosphere you can expect at their shop.  |  Winston-Salem Business and Brand Photogragraphy | Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph for Pfafftown, NC small business, Riverside Farm and Garden, showcasing the friendly and informative atmosphere you can expect at their shop. | Winston-Salem Business and Brand Photogragraphy | Jasper & Fern

3. You and Your Team at Work

Another way to build a brand atmosphere for your potential clients is to showcase you and your team at work. A client can glean valuable insight like how important each project or client is to you or the attention that will be given to their need through witnessing your team work. These photographs give your Customer Care a chance to shine!


Brand photograph for WO Designs, a Winston-Salem based Interior Design company, showcasing the layouts they create for clients when styling their spaces.  |  Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer  |  Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph for WO Designs, a Winston-Salem based Interior Design company, showcasing the layouts they create for clients when styling their spaces. | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

4. Products & Services You Provide

Reinforcing your copy with attractive images depicting what you do can make you memorable to your potential clients. When they land on your website, advertisement or a social media post, they are receiving information about what you do visually as well as contextually. The more you can do to make yourself memorable the better - especially in a fast paced world that requires content to grab a person’s attention.

Use photographs like this to help tell the story of your process, give clarity on what you do and provide insight into your brand personality.


5. Tools of Your Trade

Sometimes it can be difficult to explain to a potential client what it is you do - especially if your niche is so unique and unknown that everything you do is new information to your audience. Showcasing the tools you work with can help you stand out from your competition and be memorable. You can also use these types of brand photographs to provide you the opportunity to speak about a specific part of your process or share valuable educational information with your client.

Brand photograph created for Charlotte based doula, Mama Mpenzi Doula, showcasing her go-bag and essentials for meeting and caring for her expecting mothers at the hospital.  | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern.

Brand photograph created for Charlotte based doula, Mama Mpenzi Doula, showcasing her go-bag and essentials for meeting and caring for her expecting mothers at the hospital. | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern.


Brand photograph created for Title Boxing in Clemmons, NC showcasing their boxing lessons. | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph created for Title Boxing in Clemmons, NC showcasing their boxing lessons. | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

6. Working with Your Customer

When a customer can see what it looks like to work with you, that’s one more important step towards them paying for your services! Many people have apprehension about new experiences or services/products they are not familiar with. You can eliminate those fears by showing your customers not only what it looks like to work with you but also how it feels to work together.


Brand photograph created for Cooper Counseling, a Mount Airy based counselor, showcasing an office atmosphere that attracts and helps their target client feel comfortable.  |  Winston-Salem Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph created for Cooper Counseling, a Mount Airy based counselor, showcasing an office atmosphere that attracts and helps their target client feel comfortable. | Winston-Salem Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

7. Your Brand Atmosphere & Location

A potential client can tell a lot about your business by how the atmosphere comes across. Just think about a dentist’s office that has dim lighting, grey carpets and white walls with a greenish hue and no magazines, friendly photographs or comfortable furniture to be seen. Would you feel relaxed walking into this office to have them poke around in your mouth with sharp tools? Likely not - unless your target audience is clinical people with nerves of steel, that is. That’s why you want your building, office or created space to appeal to your specific customer. (Don’t have an office or building but want to create a similar atmosphere? We have a skill for that! Just email us and let us know what you’re looking for.)


Brand photograph for our own studio, Jasper & Fern, showcasing our work tools and notable personality items that capture the heart of our brand. |  Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph for our own studio, Jasper & Fern, showcasing our work tools and notable personality items that capture the heart of our brand. | Winston-Salem Small Business and Brand Photographer | Jasper & Fern

8. Brand Details of What You Do & Your Brand Personality

Photographs that showcase your brand personality through details help round out a client’s impression of you and general experience with your brand. These photographs provide you an opportunity to share details, stories or experiences in a softer, more subtle way so that your audience doesn’t feel like you are constantly selling to them or promoting yourself.

Keeping a consistent aesthetic with your branded detail photographs gives a polished appeal to your business.


9. Personality/Lifestyle Portrait

These days people don’t want to only see the traditional headshot when they are seeking out a business. They want to learn a brand’s story and invest in the personality and values behind a company. Having Personality/Lifestyle brand portraits is the perfect way to build this relationship - and there are a plethora of ways to do this!

Brand Portrait for small business Carla Day Consulting, a Winston-Salem based health inspector, showcasing the confident, firm and intense personality she has when she is advocating for a client. | Winston-Salem Branding Photographer | Jasper & …

Brand Portrait for small business Carla Day Consulting, a Winston-Salem based health inspector, showcasing the confident, firm and intense personality she has when she is advocating for a client. | Winston-Salem Branding Photographer | Jasper & Fern


Brand photograph created for Yudy McGuinness Artistry, a Winston-Salem, NC small business, created as a hero image for advertisements and for a banner on her social media accounts. | Winston-Salem Business and Brand Photogragraphy | Jasper & Fern

Brand photograph created for Yudy McGuinness Artistry, a Winston-Salem, NC small business, created as a hero image for advertisements and for a banner on her social media accounts. | Winston-Salem Business and Brand Photogragraphy | Jasper & Fern

10. The Hero Shot

Having a captivating photograph that brings all the elements of your business and brand - what you do, how you make people feel, etc - is pertinent to having well rounded brand aesthetics that appeal to your target market. This image should be recognizable and unique and used often. Ideally, this photograph will give you the platform to speak about any topic related to your brand or business.