Ditch Stock Images NOW | Branding Authenticity | Washington & Arizona

Nov 14

Your headshots are crucial

They’re the very first impression you make on your ideal clients. If you’re a therapist, doctor, personal trainer, or any professional looking to connect authentically, your images need to reflect YOU. Your business should feel genuine and approachable in every detail.

Here’s the truth: stock photos kill authenticity. When I land on a website filled with generic stock images or AI-generated visuals (and don’t get me started on AI images…I’ll save that rant for later), I’m more likely to click away. But when I see someone has invested in photos that represent their real self, I stick around. No joke, I’ve even done crowdsourced research on this!

Ready to make your brand shine with photos that truly represent you? Let’s chat!

Create a budget.
- Bet you didn’t guess that was my first suggestion. Well, it is. Branding photos and website work can cost you a pretty penny. But if you set a budget you can be more realistic about what photographers to work with and how to find someone that is going to be a great fit. My sessions start at 500 (I do offer discounts for therapists and those that work directly in the mental health field!) Ultimately its important to be realistic, know that you won’t find what you need for 100 dollars so expect around 500 for something high quality or higher.
Talk to photographers.
- Don’t just hire someone based off of the photos. Talk to them, chat with them. See if you vibe. You don’t want to show up on shoot day and absuloty feel uncomfrotable or awakward in front of the camera. You want to make sure you feel totally comfortable and ready to go.
Make a vision board.
1. I know in a previous blog i mentioned how pintrest isn’t always realistic for weddings. but this is different. THis is your BRAND. So make a vision board either on canva, or pintrest. These should include:
  1. Websites that inspire you
  2. Branding colors
  3. Your logo, or logo inspo if a logo hasn’t been made yet.
  4. Photos or fun content you really like.
Prep for the day!
1. This can include a lot. Make sure you feel prepared by doing the following.
  1. Select an outfit or a few that represent you and what youre trying to go for. Ask your photographer for suggestions, espoecaly bcause certain paterns, colors or textures dont always photograph well.
  2. Select props if applicable to express your business
  3. DRINK WATER
  4. If you want to feel extra, get your hair and make up done (OPTIONAL i promise)
  5. Get music rolling! Select a playlist that makes you feel CONFIDENT.
Lastly, RELAX.
1. No seriously. If you can relax, meaning you like your photograher, your not stressed about budget, and you create safe grounding space, the more fun you can have in your session. Making the session reflect more of what you actually want it too than you could imagine.