A few months ago, a client reached out saying, “I just need one good headshot for my homepage.”

Easy, right?

But once we hopped on a quick call, I started asking a few questions about her business — what she hoped people would feel when they landed on her website, and how she planned to use her images.

By the end of the conversation, we both realized something:

She didn’t need “just one good photo.”

She needed a visual story.

Images that showed her personality, her process, and the heart behind her work.

That one headshot turned into a relaxed, full personal branding session — and now those photos are everywhere: her website, social posts, proposals, and even speaking bios.

So if you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need headshots or full brand photos?” you’re not alone. Let’s break it down together in a way that feels simple and clear — not overwhelming.

So, What’s the Real Difference?

This is where most people get stuck, and I totally get it.

The terms headshots and brand photos get thrown around all the time, and they sound pretty similar. But here’s the truth:

They serve different purposes.

Neither is better than the other. It’s really about what fits your goals right now.

Let’s explore how.

1. Headshots Say “Hi, This Is Me”

Professional headshots are that polished image you use where people first meet you — think LinkedIn, your website’s About page, a presentation deck, or even your email signature.

They’re usually from the shoulders up and focus on:

• A clean, simple background
• A genuine, natural expression
• A friendly but professional vibe

It’s that virtual handshake — and yes, it matters.

If you’re updating a profile photo or need something clean and current for your bio, a modern headshot may be all you need.

If you’re booking a headshot session and wondering what to wear, how to prep, or how to feel comfortable in front of the camera, I’ve put together a simple guide that walks you through it step by step:

👉 Ready, Set, Headshot: Prep Like a Pro
A calm, helpful prep guide so you can walk into your session feeling confident and ready.

That said, if your web presence goes deeper than a single bio page, you may need more than just a handshake.

2. Branding Photos Tell Your Full Story

Personal branding photography includes headshots and lifestyle images that reflect who you are, how you work, and what it feels like to work with you.

These sessions are designed to build connection and trust before you’ve even spoken a word.

Brand photos usually include:

• You working in your space or with clients
• Details of your process (coffee, notebooks, laptop, art supplies — whatever makes your business your business)
• Wardrobe changes to reflect different facets of your brand
• Variety for your website, social media, and marketing

I like to explain it this way:
If a headshot is the handshake, branding images are the full conversation.

They let people feel what it’s like to work with you.

If you’ve ever thought, “Okay … but what photos do I actually need?” you’re not alone. This is exactly why I created a simple checklist to help business owners plan their sessions with intention:

👉 The 10 Branding Shots Every Business Owner Needs
A strategic breakdown of the essential images that help your brand feel consistent, professional, and personal.

3. How to Decide What’s Right for You

Still unsure? Don’t stress. Helping clients figure this out is part of what I do.

Here are a few questions I often ask on discovery calls:

• Where will these photos be used?
• How often will you need visual content?
• Do you need a professional head-and-shoulders image, or something that shows more of your personality and work life?
• When people land on your site or scroll your Instagram, what do you want them to feel?

If you’re just updating LinkedIn or a company profile, a quick professional headshot might be perfect.

If you’re refreshing your brand, building a new website, or creating content for social and marketing, a full personal branding session is almost always the better fit.

There’s no wrong answer — just the right fit for you.

Why This Matters More Than You Think

In today’s digital world, your image is often someone’s first introduction to you.

Whether you’re applying for a role, promoting your business, or launching something new, photos matter. And beyond “looking the part,” the right photos help you feel seen, confident, and proud to show up fully.

That’s what I love helping my clients discover.

This isn’t about camera tricks or stiff poses. It’s about comfort, connection, and showing up as yourself in a way that feels honest — but elevated.

Ready to Feel Confident in Your Photos?

Still wondering where you fit? No problem.

Let’s start with a quick call where you can tell me about your business or goals, and we can chat through what kind of session would serve you best.

Whether you’re just dipping your toe in with a professional headshot or building out a full personal brand presence, I’ll help you feel comfortable, confident, and supported every step of the way.

Portraits by Kendra offers professional headshots and personal branding photography for entrepreneurs and businesses in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and the surrounding Waterloo Region.