Professional photography: Is it a must for my business?

It is one of the questions I get asked the most, not one with a one-size-fits-all answer.

Initially, my take on it was a short no – but keep reading because, considering all business angles, there’s much more to it.

Firstly (and I draw this from my experience as a business owner), I would advise you to base your decision on answering these three questions:

1. How skilled are you behind the lens?
2. What is your personality type?
3. What works for your industry?

Let’s get into it.

How skilled are you behind the lens?

Nowadays, smartphones and advanced technology make it super simple to snap stunning photos quickly. A smartphone and some creativity are enough to capture beautiful images and kickstart your brand.

Right?

Honestly, not everyone is a rockstar when taking photos with their phone.

Consider the essential things like angles, lighting, composition, and framing. If you are anything like me, and those skills don’t come naturally, then investing in a professional photographer would be your best bet.

But remember the number one rule: Sharing any photos on social media is better than sharing none. So, snap away if you need more time to invest in brand photography.

What is your personality type?

Yes, personality plays a crucial role in deciding whether or not to use a brand photographer.

I am a perfectionist and like things to look polished and organised. So, brand photography for my social feeds is a no-brainer because it provides a consistent, high-quality appearance that aligns with my attention to detail. It is also easier to work with brands that prioritise professional photography.

That said, if you are more adventurous and prefer authenticity over a neat, curated feed, you can manage just fine without professional photos.

What works for your industry?

Your industry determines whether professional photos are beneficial for you.

For example, I work with dietitians and biokineticists who initially invested in professional photos for their websites. However, for their social media feeds, they focus more on creating talking-style reels while they cook or demonstrate exercises. On the other hand, product-based industries gain significantly from professional photos, as high-quality images are crucial for effectively showcasing products, attracting customers and making sales.

As the owner of a creative agency in the digital landscape, I recommend hiring a professional photographer for your brand images.

Here’s why:

• Research shows viewers only take 3 seconds to decide whether to keep browsing or scroll away. To ensure visitors stay and learn more about your brand, high-quality images on your site and social media are crucial to grabbing attention and retaining customers.
• Professional photos can set your brand apart from competitors and level your credibility. High-quality images highlight your brand’s uniqueness and project a polished and professional feel. It helps attract attention, build trust with your audience, and establish a robust and credible presence in your industry.
• If you’re selling products, professional photos accurately represent what customers can expect to receive, leading to more customer satisfaction and fewer product returns. High-quality images truly showcase your products, which helps set clear expectations from the start.

So yes, professional photography is right for your business, even though it may only be right for some now. Your unique style, personality, and voice can still shine through your brand whether you use professional photos or not.

And if you are a small business owner ready to make your first impressions last, we’ve got you sorted.

Visit our services page here for brand photography that showcases your credibility and shines with confidence.