There's SO much I struggle to love about myself, especially when I'm in front of the camera creating marketing materials I know will be seen by maaaany people.

Just like everyone, I don't like to look ugly or have the pounds I've added over the years be evident, or see myself forever making odd faces. But I still need to show up - and how can I ask my clients to show up if I, myself, can't show up??

There's one thing I do to overcome my camera shyness as a business owner - and I'm sure you, as a fellow entrepreneur, can relate.

I focus on my WHY.

I remind myself that I am showing up FOR people, not just for myself. I remind myself that I want AUTHENTIC relationships and that, in order to have authentic relationships, I need to be authentic and vulnerable myself. I make an effort to remember who I am and recognize my value is not in what I look like, but how I serve others.

I do my best to enable myself to show up for people and for myself in a manner that builds the relationships I want to grow.

It's always important to remember that showing up in your marketing is not about looking perfect, but about making genuine connections. This mindset shift has allowed me to build stronger, more meaningful relationships both personally and professionally. So, next time you find yourself hesitant to step in front of the camera, remember your Why and let it guide you to show up as your true self.

As a branding and headshot photographer, I've spent seven years helping incredible women like you tell their stories visually, elevating their presence online. And…. the biggest “industry secret” I utilize in all of my sessions is more obvious than you might think.

It’s YOU!

How many times have you been scrolling through a website or your social media feed and found yourself immediately drawn in by images that speak to your soul?? That's the magic of intentional brand photography. It's not just about pretty pictures; it's about creating a visual narrative that resonates with your audience and builds trust.

Your brand photos are your virtual handshake, inviting people into your world and showing them what you're all about. Your visual presence online is essential for attracting and engaging your audience. From social media to your website, the images you use significantly impact how potential clients perceive you.

If you want to present a cohesive image that aligns with your brand values, I have a few tips to share to help you have a successful photoshoot.

First, take the time to define your brand’s visual identity. What are your core values? Who is your ideal client? What message do you want your images to convey? Having a clear vision will help you communicate with your photographer, allowing them to guide the session and ensure the final images align with your brand. Consider creating a mood board with colors, styles, and poses that reflect your brand.

Second, finding the right photographer is crucial. Look for someone who you get along with, who understands your vision and helps you feel comfortable. A great photographer will help you relax and bring out your natural confidence. Communicate your ideas and expectations clearly to ensure you’re on the same page.

Preparation is the third key to a successful brand photoshoot. Plan your outfits in advance, choosing clothes that reflect your brand’s colors and help you feel confident. Avoid busy patterns and opt for timeless pieces. Bring multiple outfits with layers to create variety in your photos. Think about props or settings that can enhance your story—whether it’s your favorite coffee shop, your workspace, or a place that holds special meaning for you. Better yet, collaborate with your photographer on these elements!

Lastly, we have one of the biggest challenges many business owners face. Feeling comfortable in front of the camera. Remember, authenticity is more compelling than perfection. YOU are the secret to having magnetic visuals! Focus on being yourself and letting your personality shine through. Trust that your unique qualities are what will truly connect with your audience. You. Are. Enough.

There you have it - all the secrets to a successful brand photoshoot that is authentically you! Clarity. Chemistry. Preparation. Authenticity. You won’t just look stunning, you’ll resonating with your audience and bring those dream clients straight to you!! Celebrate your journey, embrace your strengths, and let your brand photoshoot be a reflection of your passion and purpose.

Myesha, CEO and founder of GRAACE, a Virtual Assistance firm, showcases several of the roles she fills as a mother and small business owner. From scheduling, consultations, marketing and bookkeeping to making dinners, taking her children to appointments, raising her children and being the best wife she can be.

As a [female] business owner, you've poured your heart and soul into crafting your business. Every aspect, from your unique process to the language you use, reflects your passion and dedication. You're not just another cookie-cutter business; you're a brand with a distinct personality and value proposition.

In today's crowded marketplace, authenticity is not just a buzzword; it's a necessity. When you show up authentically in your marketing efforts, you set yourself apart from the competition and attract an audience full of people who resonate with your message and values. Your brand should be a reflection of who you are—your quirks, your passions, and your story. It's not about fitting into a predetermined mold but rather embracing your individuality and allowing it to shine through in every aspect of your business.

Imagine a potential client stumbling upon your website or social media feed and instantly feeling drawn to your brand. They see themselves reflected in your content, and they think, "Yes! THAT'S the woman I want to work with!" That's the power of authenticity in marketing.

High-quality, professional brand photography that captures your personality and essence will elevate your online presence and create a strong connection with your audience. It's an easy and powerful way to convey your authenticity, from your website to your social media profiles.

If you're unsure where to start or how to enhance your online brand presence, I'm here to help. Let's book a free call to discuss your branding goals and explore how we can showcase your authenticity through compelling brand photography and marketing content.

Your uniqueness is your greatest asset—let's make sure the world sees it!

Remember, you're not just a business owner; you're a trailblazer, a visionary, and a force to be reckoned with. Embrace your authenticity, stand out from the crowd, and watch as your brand attracts the people who truly resonate with your message.

Myesha, CEO and founder of GRAACE, a Virtual Assistance firm laughs, showing how much she enjoys her work as she sits comfortably with her laptop.

Ladies, we hear so much about the entrepreneurial spirit and those dazzling success stories, but what often gets glossed over are the struggles and sacrifices that business owners face every day. Beneath the surface of all that ambition and drive, there’s a hidden epidemic: burnout. I want you to hear me when I say you are not alone in the real, raw, emotional toll that owning a business can take on your mental and physical health.

Headed on location for a Luxury Content Day full of brand photoshoots in Greensboro, NC with Alyson, Bella and Mallory.

Being your own boss, chasing dreams, turning passions into livelihoods – it all sounds amazing, right? But the reality of running a business is anything but smooth. Endless demands, sleepless nights, financial pressures, and constant uncertainty create the perfect storm for running thin.

Female business owners have so much on their shoulders. From managing finances, operations, and employees to handling customer expectations and marketing, every single decision and action falls on them - not to mention, many of you come home and have kids and a home to care for. The pressure to constantly deliver and succeed can be overwhelming.

This whole journey can be incredibly lonely. While others enjoy weekends and vacations, business owners often find themselves sacrificing personal time and relationships just to keep their ventures afloat. Missing family gatherings, neglecting friendships, and abandoning self-care in the relentless pursuit of success can take a huge toll. The isolation that comes with making all the decisions and solving all the problems can wear down even the strongest spirits. Without a strong support system, feelings of isolation can worsen, making burnout even more likely.

This doesn’t happen overnight either. It’s a gradual slide into exhaustion. Long work hours, high stress levels, and neglecting self-care lead to fatigue and the passion and enthusiasm that fueled your business starts to wane, replaced by a sense of depletion.

Let’s do better. For ourselves. For our biz besties around us. Let’s check in with each other, hold each other accountable so that we ourselves, our clients and our dreams don’t suffer. Don’t ignoring the signs. Take a breather if you need it - because, let’s be honest, you probable do. Make time to take your business bestie on a coffee date or a walk outside. Set boundaries, delegate tasks, seek support. Hustle culture isn’t glamorous, especially if it costs you your health and joy.

Let’s dispel the myth that small business owners are invincible superheroes. Behind their brave faces, there’s vulnerability, exhaustion, and the risk of burnout. It’s time to have honest conversations about the emotional toll of entrepreneurship and build a support system that encourages self-care and mental well-being. Remember, a healthy and thriving small business starts with a healthy and thriving business owner.

Take care of yourselves and each other. You’ve got this.