
Walking in a Client's Shoes
As a personal branding photographer, I'm used to being the one behind the camera, coaching clients through their sessions. I confidently guide them through location selection, wardrobe planning, posing, and image selection. You might think with all this expertise, getting my own branding photos would be a breeze, right? Wrong!
Why, Who, Where
To truly understand my clients' experience, I decided to step in front of the lens myself. This shoot served two purposes:to get my own branding photos and to gain a new perspective on the client journey.
The fun (and sometimes frustrating!) process began with photographer selection. I could consider trade collaborations, but for this project, I wanted the full client experience. So, I chose a photographer whose style resonated with me, someone new, to avoid um...micromanaging (putting it nicely)
Next came the location. I wanted to showcase the variety of environments I work in – my studio, an office setting, maybe even outdoors? Ultimately, I opted for an urban setting alongside the studio space.
Wardrobe "Woes"
Now, wardrobe selection is usually not my forte exactly, but I can help my clients in their closets to a large extent AND I know what photographs well.
Yet, somehow, I managed to pick a few pieces my photographer gently nixed. "Stylist, anyone?" I thought.
I went through my closet multiple times, shopped, returned, and shopped more. Did I want to dress super-professionally? Casually like I look on photo shoots? Of course, I should go with my body type guidelines, and avoid patterns, and not look too old, or try too hard to look young….well you get the idea.


Confidence Can't be Overstated
One decision I felt confident about was Carla, my trusted hair and makeup artist. She always makes my clients feel beautiful, and I knew she wouldn't disappoint. And let me tell you, she worked her magic! If you're debating professional hair and makeup, don't hesitate! Feeling your best goes a long way in front of the camera.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone
With my car packed and my hair and make up ready, it was time to meet Ashley, my photographer, for the session itself. An hour of posing, walking, and feeling a awkward ensued.
My posing knowledge seemed to vanish, and knew I wouldn't like any of the shots. Ashley's coaching style felt familiar – encouraging, informative, with a dash of playful instruction. "Trust the process" she said!
The Results and Reflection
The good news? I absolutely loved them! This experience was more than just getting photos; it gave me the kind of empathy that only the actual experience can give...for what my clients experience when the roles are reversed and I am the one in my comfort zone while my client is really NOT.
So, if you're in need of new headshots and branding photos, I'm that much more sympathetic with how you feel when I'm making your comfortable and creating images YOU will love-even if you don't think you will. I'll be channeling MY inner client (and all the emotions that come with it!) Just trust the process.
Deb Wesley Photography is a portrait studio in Downers Grove, Illinois, outside Chicago.

