Why Wardrobe Colors Matter

Why I am a little picky about wardrobe colors for brand shoots. I’ll admit it. I am a stickler about wardrobe colors for brand shoots, headshots and teams. Not because I want to control someone else’s style, but because I want you to be remembered, not your outfit.

Have you heard of the quote from Coco Chanel about wanting to be remembered not for the dress, but for the woman. Whether she said it word for word or not, this applies and fits perfectly when it comes to photography.

The camera notices colors that love to steal the spotlight. Neon, super bright reds or loud patterns. They can take over and suddenly the photo becomes about the look not the person. When I guide my clients it is not about rules. It’s about results and images that feel timeless and on brand. So yes, I am picky about prints and colors. Because great brand photos should make your audience remember you and not your shirt.

Color Tips: Soft Neutrals, Blue's and Grey’s, Soft Greens and Off White.

Everyone Needs a Current Headshot- Yes, Even You

If you work, network or have any kind of public presence (hi, LinkedIn), this one is for you. A current professionally done headshot and portrait isn’t just nice to have. It is your visual handshake. It is the first impression before you even speak. Whether you lead meetings, run your own business, apply for job positions or show up as a speaker, your photo tells the world who’s showing up today- not five years ago.

It matters for trust and connection. Consistency across your platforms. Energy shift, a new strong headshot and portrait captures your current looks, confidence, experience and brand personality. Cell phone selfies do not cut it and devalues your personal brand and self.

Signs it’s time to update: Personal style change, your last photo session before you changed jobs or new business. You have been using that cropped photo from your friends wedding (you know who you are).

Your headshot is about clarity, authenticity and connection. Pro Tip: Add some cool portraits for a subtle mix across media platforms. Sitting at your desk or leaning against a door. This shows more of your personality and work space vibes.

The 3- Shot Bio Every Team Needs

Stop using a single headshot. I always speak to my clients about going beyond the single headshot for their website. Potential clients or employer’s see more than what is just on your company website. I always recommend 3 types.

1. A Strong Headshot: Professional and polished for LinkedIn and Co. website. Using a clean backdrop.

2. A Friendly Candid Moment: Great for newsletters, socials, about pages.

3. A Work-Life Portrait: So clients or partners can see how you work. Leaning against a wall or sitting at a desk. Always add in some branded props.

It really is a mini brand story showcasing you even if in the same environment it shows different sides of you and looks.

The Great Rebranding

I’ve seen a ton of changes in the business photography world over the years but none have been more relevant and most important than now. The pandemic brought on a lot of stuff for folks and the requests I am getting for headshot updates and commercial lifestyle branding updates has been at an all time high.

The digital landscapes are always changing and it’s been out with the old and in with the new in so many ways. I believe the clients I work with have a sixth sense and want to up their image game and need the best representation of themselves or their product and service they sell. Showcasing that story is more important than ever and I am loving capturing this new found spirit and positive change!