The Confidence Boost I Didn’t Know I Needed (And Why I’m Investing Again)
- Brianna Reagan
- Jul 6
- 3 min read
A couple years ago, I won a brand photography session with Lena Lee Photography. At the time, I was equal parts stoked and nervous; I do not consider myself photogenic, and being in front of the camera is definitely not my favorite place.
But Lena nailed it. She captured a version of me that felt true and professional. And I used those photos everywhere: on my website, in my newsletters, in client proposals, social media posts (before I quit), a media kit in Google Drive, and all my pitch decks. The photos helped me show up with more authority and polish, and -- maybe most profoundly -- they helped me see my business differently.
I started showing up more confidently because I felt like and looked like someone worth investing in. And sh*t, yo, I am. (And you are too!)
Later this month, I’m investing in another shoot with Lena. This time focused on high-end product photography for my packaging and paper goods.
Because the real truth is that how your products look online is how they’ll be perceived. You can’t expect a “must have” reaction your work if they can’t clearly see it, feel it, or imagine it in their life.
Product photography is more than just pretty pictures.
It’s your product’s silent brand ambassador.
It’s what builds trust at a glance.
It’s what moves people from “Hmm…” to “Hell yes!”
A staggering 75% of online shoppers feel that product photography is more important than the description when making purchase decisions. Back when I had an Etsy shop, I remember all the tips saying how much the product photos matter. I look back and totally cringe at what I thought were "good" photos of my items, and I honestly can’t believe I ever got a sale (I mean, thanks, mom!).
Sure, I’ve done a decent job of photographing things myself, but I’m ready to level up. I know that my lighting never quite matches, and that I don’t capture the texture of the papers. I know I’m totally missing out on creating a mood, and I’m lacking on the life of lifestyle imagery. So that’s why I’m investing in professional brand photography.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
Great photos = increased credibility. You don’t have to explain that you’re legit. The visuals do it for you.
Cohesive visuals = brand recognition. Match your photography to your packaging and design style -- minimal, bold, quirky, earthy -- whatever your vibe is, lean into it.
Lifestyle shots = emotional connection. Help your audience see your product in the wild, in their hands, on their shelves.
Image quality = instant trust. Your visuals might matter more than your testimonials.
Good photography isn’t just an investment in your brand. It’s an investment in believing in your brand.
And when you believe in yourself and your work, everyone else is a whole lot more likely to believe in it, too.
Where to use brand photos:
If you’re wondering if professional brand photos are worth it, here are just a few ways I’ve used mine (and ways you might too):
Your website (homepage, about page, product pages, contact page)
Social media content & profile photos
Email marketing/newsletters
Client proposals and pitch decks
Press kits or media features
Etsy or online shop listings
Product previews
Brand launch or rebrand announcements
Blog posts and case studies
Business cards or printed lookbooks
Online courses, workshops, or digital products
Pop-up market signage or booth displays
Behind-the-scenes storytelling
Ads or sponsored content
Even your Zoom profile photo (do people still Zoom??)
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