Headshots vs. Branding Photography – 4 Unique Sessions Perfect for You

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in personal branding and corporate branding.  See more branding images in the gallery.  Contact me to book your branding session today!

Headshots Vs. Branding

When it comes to presenting yourself or your business in the best light, having professional photos is non-negotiable. So when it comes to headshots vs branding it’s important to understand the differences to help you make the right choice to elevate your professional image. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about headshots vs branding.

Man leaning on a chair for his realtor branding session.

Headshots vs. Branding: Which One is Right for You?

Deciding between a headshot and a branding session depends on your specific needs:

  • Headshot: Opt for a headshot if you need a straightforward, professional image for your profile, company website, or LinkedIn. It’s quick, efficient, and provides a polished look that represents you well in professional settings.
  • Branding: Choose branding photography if you want to tell a story about your business. It’s ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners who need a variety of images to use across different platforms. Branding sessions provide a more comprehensive look at who you are and what you offer.

What is a Headshot?

A headshot is a professional photograph that focuses on a person’s face, typically used for professional profiles, company websites, and social media. It’s designed to give a clear and concise impression of who you are.

Types of Headshot Sessions Offered by Tara Flannery Photography

Express Session

  • Duration: 15 minutes
  • Includes: 1 Final Retouched Photo
  • Ideal For: Quick updates, LinkedIn profiles, and company websites

The Express Session is perfect for individuals who need a quick and professional photo. It’s also a great option for companies needing to maintain a consistent look for their team. As new hires come on board, they can seamlessly integrate into the company’s marketing materials.

Executive Session

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Includes: HMU (Hair and Makeup), Wardrobe & Background Changes, 2 Looks, 3 Final Images
  • Ideal For: Executives, professional presentations, multiple platforms

The Executive Session offers more time and flexibility. With wardrobe changes and professional hair and makeup services included, this session ensures you have a variety of professional looks. It’s perfect for those who need both formal and casual images.

Headshots vs. Branding

What is Branding Photography?

Branding photography goes beyond the headshot. It’s about capturing the essence of your brand, including your personality, environment, and the message you want to convey to your audience.

Types of Branding Sessions Offered by Tara Flannery Photography

Basic Branding

  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Includes: HMU, 3 Looks, 9 Images
  • Ideal For: Entrepreneurs, small business owners, personal branding

The Basic Branding session is a step beyond the headshot. It includes an on-location shoot with an environmental feel, perfect for showcasing your brand in a natural setting. Hair and makeup services, as well as wardrobe consultation, ensure you look your best.

Premium Branding

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Includes: Wardrobe Consultation, HMU, 4 Looks, 12 Images, Branding Video
  • Ideal For: Comprehensive branding, full-scale marketing campaigns

The Premium Branding session offers it all – from wardrobe consultation to a branding video. This session is designed for those who want a complete package, providing everything needed for website and social media updates. A team of experts ensures your branding is a complete success.

Branding Session

Headshots vs. Branding: Final Thoughts

Both headshots and branding photography play crucial roles in professional and personal branding. Understanding the difference helps you make an informed decision to best represent yourself and your business. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or launching a new marketing campaign, having the right images can make all the difference.

Successful Headshot Sessions

The woodlands headshot photography

professional headshots

Successful Branding Sessions

realtor branding session

business branding photography

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in personal branding and corporate branding.  See more branding images in the gallery.  Contact me to book your branding session today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Want flawless, consistent headshots every single time? Here's the secret 👇🏻

The right equipment and settings.

When you're starting out, headshot photography can feel inconsistent—great results one session, frustrating the next.

Here's what I've learned: Consistency isn't about luck. It's about dialing in your setup.

✅ The right lens and focal length
✅ Lighting that flatters every face
✅ Camera settings you can replicate
✅ A process that works under pressure

When you nail these fundamentals, you stop second-guessing yourself. Your clients get professional results every time. And you build a reputation for quality they can count on.

Starting or refining your headshot photography? 

Drop your questions in the comments—let's talk through what's working (or what's not) in your setup.

#CorporateHeadshots #ProfessionalHeadshots #HeadshotPhotography #TheWoodlandsTX
Here's the truth ⬇️ 

Coordinating headshots for conference attendees shouldn't fall on your already-overloaded admin team.

If you're planning a conference with attendees flying in from all over, here's what happens when you add a professional headshot station to your event:

✅ Zero scheduling coordination (no calendar nightmare)
✅ Professional headshots captured on-site during the event
✅ Automatic delivery via link—no manual file sending
✅ Optional email capture for your database (bonus networking intel)
✅ Literally zero admin work for your team

The software handles everything. Your attendees get professional headshots. You get organized delivery and optional email data. Your admin team gets their sanity back.

Ready to eliminate headshot coordination from your event planning checklist?

👉🏻 Let's talk logistics. Shoot me a DM!

#CorporateEvents #EventPlanning #CorporateHeadshots #HeadshotPhotographer #CorporateBranding
Let me walk you through a corporate event headshot session 👇🏻

I set up a professional headshot station right at your event—guests funnel in and out in minutes, and here's the magic:

✨ Quick, guided posing (I'll tell you exactly what to do—no awkward guessing) 
✨ Instant proof gallery so you can choose your favorite on the spot 
✨ Polished, professional edits delivered fast 
✨ Cohesive headshots for the whole team (perfect for company websites, LinkedIn, you name it)

The best part? You don't have to schedule separate sessions, travel anywhere, or stress about what to wear. You show up, I guide you through it, and you leave with a headshot that actually represents you well.

No stiff corporate vibes. No feeling lost in front of the camera. Just efficient, professional, and dare I say... kinda fun? 😄

Corporate event headshots = convenience + quality + personality. If your company is planning an event and wants to give your team this experience, let's talk.

#corporateevents #eventphotography #corproateheadshots
Here's the truth 👇🏻

Your headshot has an expiration date. ⏰

If your current headshot is more than three years old, it's time for a refresh.

When someone looks you up before a meeting or collaboration, they're forming their first impression. If your headshot doesn't match who shows up on the Zoom call, it creates an immediate disconnect.

Your headshot should reflect who you are RIGHT NOW. Your current energy. Your current confidence. Your current professional presence. 

✨ THE 3-YEAR RULE:
Update your headshot every 2-3 years, or sooner if you've had a significant change in appearance, role, or brand positioning.

💡 PRO TIP:
If you're hesitant because you don't love being photographed, that's exactly why the right photographer matters. Your session should feel empowering, not vulnerable.

You are worthy of being seen exactly as you are right now. Let's create headshots that feel authentic and work hard for your business.

Ready to update your professional presence? Link in bio to book your session. 📸

#headshotphotography #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots
Here's the truth—these three mistakes are quietly killing your credibility:

1️⃣ Inconsistent visuals across platforms

LinkedIn headshot ≠ Instagram profile ≠ Website photo

This creates confusion and distrust. Your audience needs to recognize YOU instantly, everywhere.

2️⃣ Outdated or low-quality photos

That 2019 selfie or grainy event photo? Not helping.

Professional imagery signals you take your business seriously—so clients can trust you with theirs.

3️⃣ Hiding behind logos or stock photos

People connect with PEOPLE, not faceless brands.

If they can't see the human behind the business, they're scrolling past.

✨ The good news? All of this is fixable.

Investing in professional branding photography isn't just about pretty pictures—it's about building trust and credibility that converts.

Ready to elevate your brand's visual presence? Let's create imagery that actually works for your business. 💪🏼

🔗 Link in bio to book your consultation.

#brandingphotographer #brandingphotographerthewoodlandstx

- STAY IN TOUCH -

Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.