Headshot vs. Branding Session: Which One Do You Really Need?

When people first reach out to me, they almost always say the same thing: “I need a headshot.”

And while that’s true for some, our conversations often lead somewhere else — a branding session.

Why? Because many people don’t realize the difference between a simple headshot and a full branding session, or how much more impact a branding session can have for their business. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can choose the right session for your goals.

What Is a Headshot?

A headshot is your digital handshake — a polished, professional image that helps people recognize you instantly.

It’s quick, simple, and perfect when you need to make a great first impression.

Typical headshot session includes:

  • 10–15 minutes of shooting

  • One outfit

  • One final, professionally edited image

Headshots are ideal for:

  • LinkedIn profiles

  • Business cards

  • Websites and professional directories

What Is a Branding Session?

A branding session goes far beyond a headshot. It’s about telling your story and creating a library of images that show:

  • Who you are

  • What you do

  • How you serve your clients

Branding sessions typically include:

  • Multiple outfits

  • Different locations (studio, office, or outdoor)

  • Lifestyle images of you working, connecting, or showcasing your products/services

  • A full gallery of high-quality content for social media, websites, and marketing

Why Do People Ask for a Headshot But End Up Booking Branding?

Because most people think all professional photos fall under “headshots.”

They don’t realize that their business actually needs more than one good photo.

For example:

  • A massage therapist might think they only need a headshot, but also needs lifestyle images for their website and social posts.

  • A realtor might want a headshot but also needs photos with clients, working on location, or showing their personality.

  • A designer might need photos of their process, their tools, and their finished work to build trust online.

Headshot vs. Branding: Quick Comparison

Headshot SESSIOn

TIME: 10-15 Minnutes

Outfits: 1

Final Images: 1 Polished Headshot

Purpose: Professional Profile Photo

Best For: LinkedIn Website Bio

branding session

TIME: 1-2 Hours

Outfits: 2-3

Final Images: 5 Lifestyle/ Branding Images

Purpose: Storytelling & content creation

Best For: Social media, websites, marketing, ads

So Which Session Is Right for You?

  • If you just need a quick, polished photo for LinkedIn or a corporate site, a headshot session is perfect.

  • If you’re building a brand, creating content, or need images that show your personality and business, a branding session is the smarter investment.

Let’s Capture the Real You

Whether it’s a single headshot or a full brand story, Michele Kipplen Photography helps you look professional, confident, and authentic.

Your photos should do more than just represent you — they should speak for you.

Let’s talk about your goals and create images that put YOU back in your brand.

📸 Ready to get started? 

Get Started Today