Authentic Branding
When I first started my business going from an employed photographer in a busy studio environment to working for myself was a deep dive into the unknown for me. I’d never had to think about branding because I was part of a bigger team, I just turned up, did my work and left at the end of the day. So finding my feet with my own brand has taken a while. One thing I knew was I wanted was to be authentic, trustworthy and show up as myself.
Over the last few years it’s taken some time to find my feet but I feel like I’m finally managing to show up in my brand in a really authentic way. I don’t need to pretend to be someone that I’m not, the clients I am lucky to work with are aligned with me and the work I make, because I show up and just be myself.
Here’s a few ways I try to keep my branding authentic.
I’m sharing some images from a recent brand photoshoot for Molly founder of Effable.
1. Core Values.
Your brand values should be your guide. Take time to define what your values are as these will guide your everyday decisions. How you speak online to who you collaborate with. Ask yourself what do you stand for? What is my driving force to run my business?
2. Tell your story.
I say it all of the time, people connect with people. Sharing your story, however messy or imperfect that might be, helps to form a relationship. We like to know that the person behind the brand is relatable, human, caring. Sharing behind the scenes, stories and showing your creative process are all things that can help tell your story. Authenticity shines through in vulnerability - you don’t have to overshare, just be real.
3. Speak like the real you.
Speak the way you would to your ideal client in real life. Warm, clear and relatable. Be yourself.
4. Create visuals that reflect you.
Use images that feel like you, that reflect your brand, personality, and make you feel good - whether that is soft and soulful, strong and powerful or bright, bold and full of colour. Stay consistent but remember it's ok to evolve. Your visuals should strike an emotion, reflect your personality and tell your story.
5. Attract, don’t chase.
You don’t need to appeal to everyone - it’s impossible and you’ll never attract your ideal client by trying to do this. Focus on aligning your brand to your values and aesthetic, your people will be drawn to you. Authentic branding brings you the right people!
6. Take imperfect action.
Show up regularly, it doesn’t matter if everything you put out there is polished and perfect, authenticity isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.
7. Check in on your brand.
As you grow, take time to check in on your branding. Does it still feel aligned? Authenticity means growth and evolution will happen naturally, don’t get stuck in tradition that no longer serves you.
