Why Your Personal Interests Belong in Your Brand Photos (And No, Not Just the Coffee Mug Shot)

When most people hear brand photography, they immediately picture one thing: a clean headshot with a professional smile. You know the one—the kind of photo that looks like you could slap it on LinkedIn and call it a day.

Here’s the problem: that’s not branding, that’s existing.

Your brand imagery should be doing way more heavy lifting. The best brand photos don’t just show what you look like—they show who you are. They tell a story. They make your dream clients feel like they know you before you’ve even said a word.

And that, my friend, is where your personal interests come in.

Why Personal Interests Matter in Brand Photography

People don’t buy from a perfectly polished résumé. They buy from people they feel connected to.

That means the quickest way to build trust is to let people see the real you. The quirks. The passions. The things that light you up outside of your work.

Incorporating your personal interests into your brand shoot makes you relatable. It makes you memorable. And most importantly—it makes you stand out in a sea of cookie-cutter photos where everyone’s holding the same laptop and sipping the same latte.

Because let’s be real: if I see one more shot of a generic coffee mug, I might just scream.

Coffee Mugs & Journals: The Clichés We’re All Tired Of

Listen, I get it. You love your morning coffee. You like to journal. So do a million other people.

If your brand photos only show you sipping coffee with a half-smile or scribbling in a leather-bound notebook, what does that actually say about you? That you’re awake? That you have thoughts? Groundbreaking.

That’s not the kind of imagery that builds a personal brand. That’s the kind of imagery that blends into the background.

When I photograph clients, I don’t stop at the easy props. I go deeper. I want to know what actually makes you different. What interests or passions will spark a real connection with the people you’re trying to reach? That’s the gold.

Examples of Personal Interests That Make Your Brand Photos Pop

Not sure what I mean? Here are a few ways I’ve helped clients bring their true personality into their imagery:

1. Yoga & Movement

One client unrolled her yoga mat right in the middle of her shoot. That simple action instantly told her audience: this woman values wellness, balance, and intentional living. It wasn’t just a pose—it was a piece of her lifestyle that connected beautifully to her coaching brand.

2. Books That Go Beyond Business

Sure, stacking your favorite business books can position you as an expert—but your personal book collection? That’s where your personality shines.

Maybe you’re obsessed with Colleen Hoover novels. Maybe you lose yourself in fantasy worlds. Maybe you keep going back to your old, dog-eared copy of Pride and Prejudice.

Those details aren’t random—they make you relatable. They say, “I’m not just about the hustle. I’m a whole person.” And when someone sees a book they also love in your photos? Instant connection.

3. Hobbies That Light You Up

One client brought her guitar to her session. Another showed off her gardening tools. Someone else baked a batch of cookies because baking was her love language. These things don’t scream “corporate headshot”—they scream authentic human.

And that’s exactly what your clients want.

4. Style That Speaks Volumes

Your favorite leather jacket, your boldest sneakers, or even that bright lipstick you only wear when you’re feeling yourself—these personal touches tell a story all on their own. They show confidence, personality, and energy.

When you choose wardrobe that feels authentically you, it translates directly into your brand vibe.

The SEO Angle: Why This Matters for Your Business

Okay, let’s get real practical for a second. You might be wondering—what does my favorite yoga pose or book collection have to do with SEO or getting found online?

Here’s the connection: your brand imagery directly impacts how people experience your brand online.

When someone searches “brand photographer near me” or “personal brand photography,” they’re not just looking for someone with a camera. They’re looking for someone who can create imagery that tells a story, builds trust, and helps them attract clients.

That’s why my approach as a brand photographer isn’t about generic props. It’s about pulling your personal brand—the quirks, the passions, the real you—into every shot. That’s the kind of imagery that keeps people on your site longer, gets shared on social media, and leaves a lasting impression.

Why Playing It Safe Won’t Work

Here’s the thing: safe, standard imagery might feel comfortable, but it won’t move the needle.

If you want to build a personal brand that actually connects, you have to get a little bold. You have to be willing to show your personality—even the “not so professional” parts.

Because the truth is, your personality is the differentiator your business has been looking for.

Ready to Ditch the Boring Photos?

If your current brand imagery feels flat, generic, or like it could belong to anyone, it’s time for an upgrade. The right brand photos will show off your expertise and your personality, so your dream clients feel like they already know you.

And trust me—you don’t need another coffee mug photo. You need photos that actually say something about who you are.

So, what’s the personal interest you’d bring to your next brand shoot?