Why You Need at Least 50 Images for Your Branding Session: The Power of Versatility
I recently signed up for Jordan Duvall’s Soul Brand Certified 12-week branding photography certification. She’s amazing! I’m always looking to take my branding photography to the next level, and she’s helping me do this. Hands down, this is the best investment I could make for my business.
We recently discussed the importance of providing a wide range of images during a client’s branding session. Jordan is a Creative Director with 25+ years of leading creative direction for lifestyle and entertainment brands. She is skilled in cross-platform campaigns, photoshoots, and collaborating with teams to boost brand engagement. She also designs jaw-dropping websites that lead your ideal clients to want to work with you.
In today’s digital landscape, first impressions are E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a thought leader, or a creative professional, the quality and diversity of your branding photos can make or break your perception.
That’s why when it comes to a professional branding session, less is **not** more. You need at least 50 high-quality, versatile images to effectively cover your bases and tell your story.
Here’s why—and how this number breaks down to ensure that every aspect of your brand story is expressed. This works for a five-page website. You’ll need more images if your website has more pages.
1. Headshots: The Faces of Your Brand
3 Branded Headshot Portraits
Your headshot is often the first image people see of you, and having options is critical. You’ll need at least three distinct headshot styles to suit multiple platforms:
- Social Media Avatar: Think of LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram—each requires a slightly different crop or vibe.
- Podcast/Media: Whether you're being interviewed for a podcast or featured in the media, a polished headshot sets the tone.
- Contact Page: A friendly, approachable headshot on your contact page builds trust and connection.
Jennifer makes her own bags and sews a special message of positive affirmation on the inside.
2. Horizontal Header Images: Setting the Stage
5 Horizontal Header Images - one for each page
These wide-format images are your storytelling powerhouses, serving as the backdrop for key sections of your website:
- Home Page: A strong image where you're either positioned on the right or left to allow space for text.
- About: Give a personal touch inviting people to your journey.
- Services: Showcase your offerings with images highlighting your professionalism.
- Single Service Page: Each service deserves a unique visual.
- Contact Page: Bring warmth to this often overlooked but critical page.
3. Detail Shots: Showcasing the Finer Things
10 Horizontal Detail Shots, 10 Vertical Detail Shots
Detail shots help you connect with your audience on a deeper level by focusing on the little things that matter:
- Close-ups of your workspace, tools, or key products create a feeling of intimacy.
- These images are essential for adding layers to your brand’s story, giving texture and depth to your visual identity.
4. Close-Ups & Body Shots: Building Authenticity and Intimacy
5 Vertical Close-Up Shots, 5 Vertical ¾ Shots, 5 Vertical Full Body Shots*
It’s not just about your face; it’s about showing different aspects of your personality and style:
- Close-ups for those moments when you need to zoom in on emotion or expression.
- ¾ and full body shots to give a sense of movement and show the whole "you"—perfect for delivering a keynote or connecting with clients.
5. Environment Shots: A Sense of Place
3 Horizontal or Vertical Environment Shots (no PEOPLE)*
Sometimes, the setting is just as important as the subject. These shots establish context and provide a backdrop for your narrative:
- Whether it’s your cozy office, studio, or favorite outdoor location, these images help create a sense of place for your brand.
6. Videos: A Dynamic Edge
2 Horizontal Video, 1 Vertical Video, 1 Vertical Close-Up, 2 Vertical Detail Shots, 2 Vertical Wide Shots, 2 Vertical ¾ Shots, 1 Horizontal Close-Up, 1 Horizontal Detail Shot
In a world dominated by social media and video marketing, a solid collection of branding videos is non-negotiable. Videos give life to your brand, allowing potential clients to see you in action. With the variety of formats—horizontal and vertical, wide and close-up—you'll have plenty of flexibility for all platforms, from Instagram Reels to YouTube intros.
7. Blog & Instagram: Content Creation Made Easy
5 -12 Blog Images, 6 IG Footer Images
Your website and social media presence need constant updating. With dedicated blog images, fresh, on-brand visuals are ready to go whenever inspiration strikes. And don’t forget about Instagram—the footer images create cohesion and reinforce your visual identity.
Ask me about my Blog Post add-on package.
The Big Picture: Why 50 Images or More Are Essential
You may wonder, “Do I need all these images?” The answer is a resounding YES! Having a diverse portfolio of images allows you to:
- Maintain Consistency: Across all your platforms, keeping your brand cohesive.
- Stay Versatile: Different image orientations, settings, and moods allow you to change things up while remaining on-brand.
- Save Time: You won’t need to schedule multiple shoots for various needs—you’ll have all your visuals in one session.
- Engage Your Audience: The more visuals you have, the easier it is to connect with your audience regularly and authentically.
Your brand is not just about one look or moment—it’s about telling a rich story. A single headshot or one background image won’t do justice to the multifaceted nature of who you are and what you offer. Investing in a branding session with at least 50 images gives you the tools to build a professional, engaging, versatile visual presence that attracts your dream clients.
Check out Jordan’s Instagram - Ignite Your Soul Brand,
Ready to elevate your brand? Let’s create a dynamic collection of images reflecting your unique story and elevating your business!