Every fall, I have a few traditions. I update my business plan, conduct a two–day strategic planning session with my team, develop my sales targets and revenue goals for the next year, and I do a photo shoot to update my visual brand.  Now you might wonder why hiring a photographer is on my must-do list of year-end activities, but let’s face it: in business, you are selling yourself as much as your product or service.  And good pictures help sell the brand.

Have the Right Support Team

When it comes to creating great photos, I always hire a stylist to work with me to plan the photo shoot and pick the looks. This year, I hired Skai Blue Media stylist Javier Alonzo to serve as the Art Director/Stylist. He reached out to Saks Fifth Avenue Philadelphia to borrow a few things for the shoot. We also pulled a few looks from my closet, and used my personal jewelry and shoes for the session. I am a big Ralph Lauren and Karl Lagerfeld fan, so there was plenty to choose from. My hair and makeup were done by makeup artist Briahna Yancey of FaceArtistry. Jasen Hudson Photography handled the toughest role during the shoot. He took over 1000 photos in color and black & white.

Creating new publicity photos was especially important to me this year. I recently lost over 25 pounds and two dress sizes, which is big difference. The most important reason to update your brand photos is to make sure people recognize you when they meet you in person.

Make it Easy for the Media

In addition to trying to get that perfect headshot, we also took full body shots and family pictures that we’ll use for media interviews. Often times when magazines do feature articles, they request at least 4 photos other than a headshot. They know I’m a mom, so often I am asked for a picture with my son. Having my son present makes the photo shoot a lot of fun. It becomes a family affair and it’s a great excuse to get our annual Christmas card photos at the same time.

I decided to give a sneak peak of my three favorite photos. When Jasen turned on the wind machine, I did channel my inner Tyra Banks. There’s something about having wind in your face that will make you feel like a supermodel!

Tips for Your Headshots

If it’s time to update your headshots, you might not need as elaborate a photo shoot as I had, but consider these steps:

• Hire a professional photographer and makeup artist. A photo from your iPhone will not do.
• If you need to tweak your style, hire a professional stylist to go shopping with you to pick out a few outfits that would be flattering in a headshot.
• Select at least two looks to be photographed, (pick a colorful jacket or tie and avoid black or white)
• Plan on spending at least $500-$1000 for what you need.
• Be sure to get jpeg and high resolution tiff files so you can use them online and in print.

It’s important to have a visual brand that presents you in the best light, with an up-to-date look. Invest in a new headshot today; it could do wonders for your business.