Ever wanted to try a branding shoot but not sure?
One of the most common messages I hear from people I chat to is that they are not sure about whether they are ready for a branding shoot.
"I hate having my photo taken."
"I'm really nervous."
"I'm not sure I am ready."
So I had the idea to run some really quick, relaxed sessions for people who wanted to give it a try without intimidation.
20 minute sessions (so over quickly!) but with a range of really useable images, not just headshots on a white background.
I wanted to offer a real flavour for a branding shoot at an introductory price offering amazing value for money.
Focus on You was born and sold out within a week, and I added an extra date, which also sold out.
Some tweaking later and in October I offered my second date, using a local holiday let Seabreeze Cottage which offered a relaxed and neutral setting with spaces and corners that would give a real variety of shots.
Nine amazing brands booked in and I have featured some of them here!
Hayley Hudson - Hudson Admin and Support
Hayley runs Hudson Admin and Support - running a team of VAs and offering her own VA support to a number of businesses.
She has built a strong brand and speaks nationally about what she does, working with LinkedIn and Canva to offer support to freelancers all over..
Hayley also runs the VA Lounge offering training and support to VAs in the UK and beyond.
She wanted some updated photos to add to her content after a full branding session with me at the end of 2023.
To find out more, visit her website here
MyQuarterly accountants
Sam and Natalie are the husband and wife team that make up myQuarterly - an accounting service that aims to take all of the worry out of your business finances.
They bring a personal touch to your financial needs, understand the challenges of running a small business and aim to simplify your financial management so you can focus on what you love most.
Find out more here.
Sam and Natalie wanted some updated branding shots to include their new brand colours.
Here's what Sam and Natalie thought of their session:
"Laura has completed a couple of shoots for us and the results are absolutely fantastic! She's easy to work with, organised and reliable. She also has a great eye for imagery, and tons of experience, so even when you're not quite sure what you want, she helps you find it.
Highly recommend her to any business that wants to stand out with their branding."
lEIGH-aNNE SOUTH - WALMER CANDLES AND WAX MELTS
Leigh-Anne is owner of Walmer Candles and Wax Melts, making beautifully scented items for your home, inspired by fragrances she loves and using all natural ingredients. You can find her on Instagram here and local markets.
I think it's fair to say Leigh-Anne was reluctant to get in front of the camera, so I made she we got some varied shots that were subtle.
Here's what Leigh-Anne said after the shoot:
"I had a Focus on You session and loved my photos, I hate seeing myself in photos and I was so pleased with how they came out, mainly because Laura is a fab photographer but she also took time to make me feel at ease and took the guesswork out of what I needed."
Claire Roads Photography
Fellow Kent based photographer Claire specialises in family shoots in your own home, focusing on "real-life" images that capture moments in time and tell your unique family story. She wanted some branding images because, and I quote "There are only so many mirror selfies you can get away with"!
Check out her website here.
"As a photographer myself I have always been far more comfortable behind the camera and have resisted getting branding photos of my own for far too long! I have followed Laura’s work for some time and have always loved her natural and relaxed approach so when I saw her advertising her “Focus on You” sessions I jumped at the chance. The session was lovely. Laura put me at ease straight away (it was like meeting up with a friend) and guided me through everything effortlessly. I received the images this week and am so pleased with them. Thank you Laura x"
Karen Price
Karen moved to Deal recently and has thrown herself into the local community with a firm belief in building connections.
She is a nutrition and lifestyle coach, running Beyond the Wall Coaching, helping people to overcome barriers to a happier lifestyle.
Karen had never had a branding shoot before so wanted to try out a mini session to dip her toe.
Here's what she thought:
"As a service based small business owner, the importance of personal branding and putting yourself out there is key. It is also not without it's intimidations.
Luckily, we have Laura! She makes the whole process fun, natural, professional, accessible and in line with your needs, requirements and individuality (and budgets).
I am delighted with my experience - and more importantly my photos - and am happy to recommend Laura and AnySomething to all."
These sessions are fast becoming one of my favourite things to do, and I will be launching regular sessions for 2025.
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Thank you so much to all of the people that came to this round - I am so proud of you all and honoured to work with you!
Laura