Monday, July 21, 2025 | By: Colleen Neel Photography
In this blog, we'll talk about when should you update your headshots or branding photos? If you’ve found yourself cropping a group photo for LinkedIn or reusing the same old stock image from five years ago… this is could be a sign that it’s time.
Summer can be a great time to check this off your To- Do list with lighter schedules and maybe even a bit of a tan!
It’s been more than 3 years
If it's been more than 3 years it's probably outdated. You have, most likely, changed in small ways that make a difference. You want a modern, contemporary headshot.
You’ve changed how you look
Maybe you’ve switched up your hair, started wearing glasses, or have a new look. You want people to be able to recognize you right away.
You’ve changed jobs
Another great reason is you have changed jobs! A fresh headshot to go with your new job announcement says you are thrilled with the new opportunity and showing it by investing in yourself
Maybe You’ve never had a professional headshot!
That photo from a wedding where you've cropped out the person next to you or a quick phone pic doesn’t showcase you as much as a professional photo shoot that is focused JUST on you. I guide you every step of the way so we show you at your best.
Everything above also applies to Branding Portraits but they go deeper, giving people a sense of your business, style, and story. I usually take a mix of both headshots and portraits in my regular sessions.
People want to see the person behind the business.
Customers are much more likely to trust and hire someone they feel they know. Branding photos let your personality and story come through.
Show what you actually do.
On-location images, working shots, and props help illustrate your process, services, or products — so people instantly understand what you offer.
Share another side of you.
Branding sessions can highlight your values, interests, or behind-the-scenes moments that set your business apart.
Replace generic stock photos.
Custom images elevate your website and marketing materials, making everything feel authentic and unique to you — not like every other business out there.
Stay current as your brand grows.
Your style, services, or target clients may shift over time. Updated photos keep your visual identity aligned with where your business is today.
Build a library of content.
Fresh branding photos give you plenty of visuals to pull from for social media, your website, email newsletters, and printed materials.
I hope this post gives some clear reasons to keep the photos you need for your business, job or career up to date!
If it's time for you to get some new photos, I'd love to help with that!