Hey Photographers – Headshot Photography is DOA! Why Personal and Business Branding Strategies are the Future of Photography in 2024
As a professional photographer and business branding veteran of over 20 years here in Cincinnati, Ohio, I’ve seen the industry shift dramatically in recent years, especially for those working in the entertainment industry. Traditional headshot photography is dead on arrival (DOA). The game has changed, and if you’re not focusing on personal branding and business branding strategies in 2024, you’re missing the boat.
Moni (Jasmine) Guo contacted our studio looking to update her look with something a little less than traditional. We started with a no cost or commitment consultation to gain a better idea of what would best serve her in images. We quickly learned that creativity was paramount.
Composer Guo Mo Ni: Fusion and development, solving problems with music
as seen in Forbes China Lifestyle & Entertainment October 24, 2023
This is where we started. Everyone is comfortable with the traditional headshot power pose right? Although the lighting and background are less than traditional, the pose it what you would expect. Arms crossed, chin straight toward the camera with an inviting smile. THIS is our break the ice moment as we move towards deeper meaning and emotion.
The Fall of Traditional Headshots
Let’s face it, the old-school headshot is no longer enough to capture attention or showcase the essence of a brand or individual. With the entertainment industry booming here in Cincinnati, from actors to musicians, creatives need more than a simple headshot to stand out. A basic headshot can’t convey personality, values, or the unique story of the individual behind the lens—and that's what casting agents, producers, and potential clients want to see.
Not to say the traditional pose is not welcomed, on the contrary. Images like this have value and can be used to introduce a lighthearted blog or social media post. However, when you only have a moment to capture the attention of the viewer, the images that follow will be far more useful.
Why Personal Branding Photography is the Future
In 2024, personal branding photography is the powerhouse tool that will elevate your photography business. It's about creating a visual narrative that tells your client’s story in a way that connects emotionally and authentically with their audience. For professionals in the entertainment industry—whether it's actors, musicians, artists, or entrepreneurs—a compelling personal brand is non-negotiable. They need visuals that communicate who they are, not just what they look like.
As photographers, we need to position ourselves as experts in crafting these narratives. It’s about more than taking a picture; it’s about showing how our clients fit into the bigger story they want to tell the world. From lifestyle shots to behind-the-scenes captures, you’re helping clients share a journey that resonates with their audience.
Business Branding Photography for the Entertainment Industry
For businesses in Cincinnati’s entertainment sector, business branding photography is equally crucial. Think of production companies, music venues, talent agencies—these businesses need branding imagery that stands out in a highly competitive industry. They don’t just need images; they need a cohesive visual identity that reflects their brand’s values and mission.
Whether you're shooting for an agency looking to recruit top talent, or a musician wanting to make a splash with their album launch, business branding photography goes beyond the headshot. It’s a strategic approach that blends corporate identity with storytelling, ensuring that every shot you take aligns with their brand and objectives.
How to Stay Ahead of the Curve
Here’s the thing—photographers who want to succeed in 2024 must pivot toward these personal and business branding strategies. In my Cincinnati studio, I’ve completely revamped the way I work with clients. Instead of just offering headshots, I take a deep dive into their brand and build a personalized photography plan that enhances their unique identity in the entertainment space.
Think beyond traditional studio setups. Take your shoots to the locations where your clients thrive. Capture them in their element. Show them doing what they do best—whether it's performing on stage, collaborating in the studio, or networking in industry events.
Your 2024 Strategy
If you want to grow your photography business and capture high-profile clients in Cincinnati’s entertainment industry, focus on becoming a branding expert. Here's how:
Develop a personal branding package tailored to professionals in the entertainment sector, including behind-the-scenes images, candid lifestyle shots, and tailored branding content.
Offer business branding sessions to help companies visually tell their story through strategic and authentic photography.
Stay connected to the industry—network with entertainment professionals, understand their pain points, and become their go-to resource for personal and business branding imagery.
2024 is going to be all about storytelling. Headshot photography is dead, but personal and business branding strategies are thriving. Be the photographer who gives your clients the images that elevate their brand in the entertainment industry, and watch your own business soar.
Tracie Maglosky
Professional Photographer & Business Branding Expert
Cincinnati, Ohio
Transforming the way the entertainment industry tells its story through innovative branding photography.