El Dorado Hills Headshot Photographer- how to use branding words

 

As a headshot photographer here in El Dorado Hills, I have one job- to help you convey a little story in one frame. A strong headshot can say who you are, what you’re about, and how it feels to work with you.

 

It’s not just about looking good, it’s about communicating who you are! And guess what helps?  Branding words!

A headshot tells a story through:

• Expression – Are you warm and open? Serious and focused? Light and playful?

• Styling – Your clothing, hair, and accessories quietly suggest what industry you’re in, your level of formality, and your personal brand.

• Lighting & Mood – Bright and airy says one thing. Moody and directional says another. The lighting can hint at your personality or professional tone.

• Background – A crisp studio backdrop, a cozy corner of your workspace, or an outdoor setting — each gives a different context and feel.

• Body Language – Even the angle of your shoulders, what you do with your hands  or the way you smile can affect the impression people get.

 

Your headshot is often someone’s first impression of you — on your website, LinkedIn, speaker bio, or even a dating app. The story it tells should support who you are and where you’re headed.

So ask yourself:

• What do I want people to feel when they see this?

• What kind of energy do I want to put into the world?

• What part of me do I want to show?

A great place to start thinking about your headshot is to start with branding words!

A branding word is a word that describes how you want to be seen or felt by others — especially in your business or professional presence. It’s like a personality trait or vibe you want your photos to communicate.

Think of it as a guide for how you want to show up visually. Here’s a list to help you brainstorm:

Professional – Polished, reliable, focused
Warm – Approachable, kind, friendly
Creative – Imaginative, expressive, bold
Confident – Assured, self-possessed, strong
Trustworthy – Honest, grounded, sincere
Fun – Energetic, playful, spirited
Modern – Trendy, fresh, forward-thinking
Sophisticated – Elegant, timeless, refined
Authentic – Real, grounded, no-frills
Calm – Peaceful, serene, composed
Bold – Daring, empowered, magnetic
Classic – Timeless, clean, simple

If you’re a therapist, you might want your headshot to feel calm, trustworthy, and warm.
If you’re a designer, maybe it’s creative, modern, and approachable.
If you’re a coach or speaker, you might want to come across as confident, dynamic, and genuine.

My goal is to create images that reflect you at your best: authentic, approachable, and aligned with your personal or professional brand. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn, building a website, or refreshing your business image, I’ll guide you every step of the way — from outfit choices to expression and everything in between.

If you’re looking for a headshot photographer in El Dorado Hills, I’d love to work with you!

I bring a relaxed, professional approach that helps you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera — no stiff poses or forced smiles here.

Let’s create a headshot that truly tells your story.  Feel free to call or text: 1-916-936-7363 or email me at susannah@susannahgill.com

 

Interested in seeing how headshots can be used in multiple marketing materials? Check out this blog post!

Interested in learning more about branding words?  Check out this great article for Entrepreneur.com