What Modern Brand Portraits Include

Initial 20-Minute Phone Consultation
We start with a brief call to understand your brand, your industry, and who you’re trying to attract. Modern brand portraits work differently depending on whether you’re a creative consultant, a wellness professional, a tech entrepreneur, or a service provider. This conversation helps me understand the right balance of personality and professionalism for your specific positioning.

In-Person Strategy and Wardrobe Consultation
After you book, we schedule an in-person strategy and wardrobe consultation at my Los Gatos studio (typically 1-1.5 hours). This happens a few days to 2-3 weeks before your actual photo session.

This is where we define your Ideal Client Avatar and brand personality together. We discuss what makes your approach different from others in your field. We map out the specific energy and style your portraits need to convey. Traditional corporate? No. Modern and approachable? Yes. But how modern? How casual? What feels authentic to you while still building credibility with the clients you want to attract?

You’ll leave this consultation knowing exactly what we’re creating and why these portraits will help you stand out.

Professional Hair and Makeup
Every modern brand portrait session includes professional styling (60-75 minutes). We create a polished look that enhances without transforming. Modern brand portraits should look like the real you on your best day, not like you’re playing dress-up in someone else’s brand.

Extended Studio Session
Modern brand portrait sessions have no time limit. We shoot multiple setups and variations until we’ve captured the contemporary, editorial-style imagery you need. Typical sessions run 2-3 hours.

Creative Wardrobe Direction
Bring 3-5 outfit options that reflect your actual style. Modern brand portraits work best when you’re wearing what you’d actually wear to meet a client or speak at an event. Not costume. Not playing a role. Just the elevated, authentic version of how you already show up.

We might shoot classic professional looks with modern styling. Business casual that feels current rather than corporate. Perhaps something bolder or more creative if that matches your brand personality. The key is authenticity with intention.

Contemporary Studio Setups
My Los Gatos studio at 117 Broadway is designed for modern portrait work. Clean, minimal backgrounds that feel current. Natural light setups that create soft, editorial quality. Perhaps darker, moodier backgrounds if that fits your brand. We’ll create imagery that looks like it belongs in a contemporary magazine, not a corporate directory from 2005.

Editorial-Style Direction
Modern brand portraits require different energy than traditional corporate headshots. We’ll shoot relaxed, confident poses that feel natural rather than stiff. Genuine expressions that reveal personality. Perhaps environmental portraits that show you in your element. The goal is imagery that feels current, sophisticated, and authentically you.

Image Selection
If we do image selection the same day, we’ll sit down together in person at the studio after your session. If we do it the next day, you choose whether you’d prefer to come back in person or hop on Zoom, whatever fits your schedule better.

You’ll see all your images. We’ll discuss which portraits work best for your brand positioning, and you’ll choose your selections. Then we talk retouching preferences. Modern brand portraits typically use sophisticated, editorial-style retouching that maintains authenticity while ensuring every detail looks intentional.

Professional Retouching on All Purchased Images
Every image you select receives professional retouching matched to modern editorial standards. This is refined, sophisticated work that enhances without obvious manipulation. You’ll look like yourself, just expertly photographed and thoughtfully edited.

Strategic Delivery
You’ll receive your professionally retouched modern brand portraits within 1 week via website download. High-resolution files ready for any professional use.