Headshots vs. Branding Photography – What’s Right for You?

Branding session for a dietitian

If you’ve been browsing our website or checking out our photography packages, you might be wondering:What’s the difference between a headshot and a branding session? And more importantly: Which one do I need?

Many of our clients ask this question—and it’s an important one. While both fall under the category of professional portraits, they serve very different purposes. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose what fits best.

What is a Headshot?

A professional headshot is a classic, close-up portrait used for professional and business purposes.

Use cases:

• LinkedIn profiles

• Corporate websites

• Business cards

• Posters or promotional materials

• Press features or speaking engagements

Key features:

• Clean, consistent style (usually shoulders-up)

• Quick setup and simple background

• Minimal pre-shoot planning

• Customer approves the final selections

Session details:

• Duration: 15 to 60 minutes

• Photos delivered: A small number of fully retouched images

• Best for: Professionals who need a timeless portrait

• Cost: Lower price point than branding sessions

What is Branding Photography?

Branding photography is designed to tell the story of you and your business. It’s highly customised and strategic, with planning involved before the shoot.

What it can include:

• Headshot-style portraits

• Action shots (e.g., working on your laptop, with clients, using your tools)

• Photos of your product, service, or workspace

• Lifestyle portraits that reflect your personality and brand tone

• Multiple outfits, locations, and settings

Examples:

• A realtor might appear with a SOLD sign, talking on the phone, or walking through a staged home

• A personal trainer could be shown working with clients, demonstrating exercises, or prepping meals

• A baker might be photographed mixing batter, displaying products, or standing in front of their logo

Session details:

• Duration: Minimum 2 hours, plus pre-session planning

• Photos delivered: A large gallery of carefully edited images

• Best for: Entrepreneurs, creatives, and service providers who need a library of content

• Cost: Higher investment, but more value and long-term use

Why Branding Is Worth It

• Branding sessions provide you with a stack of visual content you can use for months

• Great for websites, social media (especially Instagram), email newsletters, and more

• Helps establish consistency and trust in your personal or business brand

• Can include you, your products, your space—or all of the above

• It's a long-term investment into your public image and marketing presence

So… Which One Should You Choose?

Choose a headshot if:

• You need a professional portrait for LinkedIn, a resume, or a company profile

• You want something quick, simple, and polished

• You don’t need variety or brand storytelling

Choose branding photography if:

• You run your own business or are building a personal brand

• You want high-quality content for ongoing marketing

• You need to explain what you do and why it matters visually

Studio Bokeh Photography is a professional photography studio in Aurora, Ontario, offering headshots, personal branding, and creative visual storytelling. Our full-service studio includes access to multiple shooting areas, backdrops, props, and lighting—everything you need for a successful session.