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See images from recent sessions, learn a few photo tips & tricks, plus small business & branding basics. 

team-having-fun-brand-photos-Calgary-Kate-Daniel-Photography

When it comes to professional photography for your business, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between headshots and brand photos? While both play a crucial role in your online presence, they serve different purposes.

What Are Headshots?

A headshot is a polished, professional image of you—your digital first impression. Typically, it’s a close-up shot that focuses on your face, ensuring you look approachable and confident.

Headshots are great for:

✔ LinkedIn profiles

✔ Website About pages

✔ Speaker bios and press features

✔ Business cards and professional directories

Think of a headshot as the go-to image that helps people put a face to your name. It’s clean, professional, and essential for building trust online.

What Are Brand Photos?

Brand photos go beyond the headshot to tell a visual story about you and your business.

These images showcase your personality, workspace, process, and the overall essence of your brand.

They often include props—like your laptop, notebook, coffee, or the tools of your trade—to bring your brand to life.

Brand photography can include:

✔ Team photos to create a cohesive, professional look

✔ Lifestyle images that reflect your brand personality

✔ Behind-the-scenes shots of you working

✔ Flat lays and detail shots that highlight your work

These images are perfect for your website, social media, email marketing, and promotional materials. They give your audience a deeper connection to you and what you do.

Why Your Business Needs Both

While a great headshot is essential, brand photos provide a well-rounded visual identity.

A professional brand photography session ensures you have a variety of high-quality images that represent you authentically across multiple platforms.

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or leading a growing team, having a mix of headshots and brand photos will elevate your business presence and help you stand out online.

📸 Ready to create a strong, cohesive brand with professional photography? Let’s chat! Book a Clarity Call today, and let’s bring your vision to life.


17hats-Referral-Code-Ambassador-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Heard of 17hats? I use it to organize and automate my business. It’s a small business game changer! I’d be lost without it.

Their feature-packed platform saves me time & energy so I can focus on what I do best – photography – not paperwork.

Use my referral code: KateDaniel when you sign up for a 7-day free trial to receive 50% off your first year of 17hats OR simply click HERE.


Kate Daniel is a top brand & lifestyle photographer in Calgary, AB. Serving ambitious and creative entrepreneurs in YYC, Treaty 7, Central Alberta and beyond.

Together, we’ll create authentic & scroll-stopping website and social media photos so you can save time, grow your business & get back to living the life you love!

Let’s connect! Sign up for the NEWSLETTER or book a FREE Clarity Call to chat about your photo needs.

What’s the Difference Between Headshots and Brand Photos?

Business & Brand Photos

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BUMP-mural-creative-headshot-Kate-Daniel-Photography-woman-wearing-black

If you’re looking for headshots that pop with personality and creativity, Calgary’s downtown murals – created for the Beltline Urban Murals Project – are a perfect backdrop. These vibrant, colourful pieces of art bring a fresh and modern edge to your brand photos, making sure you stand out while showcasing the city’s dynamic art scene.

I captured some headshots against one of these stunning murals, painted by artist Yasaman Mehrsa. Her work is part of BUMP, a community initiative that transforms Calgary’s buildings into large-scale, outdoor art galleries. You can see more of Yasaman’s mural art here.

The bold colours and playful designs of these murals add a unique flair to professional photos, giving them an approachable, fun vibe while still looking polished and professional. Whether you’re updating your website, LinkedIn profile, or social media, these backdrops create an eye-catching, memorable look that reflects both your personality and your brand.

Want to infuse your next headshots with a splash of creativity? Let’s explore Calgary’s Beltline Urban Murals Project together and create photos that truly capture your unique essence.


17hats-Referral-Code-Ambassador-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Heard of 17hats? I use it to organize and automate my business. It’s a small business game changer! I’d be lost without it.

Their feature-packed platform saves me time & energy so I can focus on what I do best – photography – not paperwork.

Use my referral code: KateDaniel when you sign up for a 7-day free trial to receive 50% off your first year of 17hats OR simply click HERE.


Kate Daniel is a top brand & lifestyle photographer in Calgary, AB. Serving ambitious and creative entrepreneurs in YYC, Treaty 7, Central Alberta and beyond.

Together, we’ll create authentic & scroll-stopping website and social media photos so you can save time, grow your business & get back to living the life you love!

Let’s connect! Sign up for the NEWSLETTER or book a FREE Clarity Call to chat about your photo needs.

BUMP – Beltline Urban Murals Project: Creative Backdrops for Your Headshots in Calgary

Headshots

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professional-headshot-Calgary-psychologist-woman-long-hair-grey-backdrop

In the world of psychology, where first impressions and professional trust are paramount, your headshot is more than just a photograph. It’s a key component of your professional identity. Professional headshots for psychologists are a must.

For psychologists in Calgary, presenting a polished and professional image can significantly impact client trust and comfort. Here’s why investing in elevated headshots can be a game-changer for your practice.

The Importance of a Professional Headshot A professional headshot conveys your commitment to professionalism and establishes credibility even before a client walks through your door. It sets the tone for the therapeutic relationship and reflects your dedication to your profession.

Tailored for Psychologists I understand the unique needs of psychologists. My headshots are designed to convey warmth, confidence, and approachability—qualities essential in your field. I focus on creating images that reflect your personality, making you relatable and trustworthy.

Boost Your Online Presence In today’s digital age, a compelling online presence is crucial. An elevated headshot can enhance your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials, helping you to stand out in a crowded field and attract more clients who are a good fit for your services.

Invest in Your Professional Image Your headshot is an investment in your professional brand. High-quality, professional photos demonstrate your investment in your career and help to elevate your practice in the eyes of potential clients.

A Seamless Process My process for capturing your ideal headshot is thorough yet straightforward. From the initial Clarity Call to discuss your personal style, to the session planning and execution, I take care to consider all details, making sure the experience is comfortable and tailored to your needs. My goal is to make this as effortless and enjoyable for you as possible, respecting your time and the specific demands of your practice.

For psychologists in Calgary looking to elevate their professional image and attract more clients, a professional headshot is indispensable. I specialize in creating authentic, professional, and approachable images that help you connect with your clients before they even meet you.

Ready to elevate your professional image? Contact Kate today to book your Elevated Headshot session and take the first step towards transforming your practice’s image.


17hats-Referral-Code-Ambassador-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Heard of 17hats? I use it to organize and automate my business. It’s a small business game changer! I’d be lost without it.

Their feature-packed platform saves me time & energy so I can focus on what I do best – photography – not paperwork.

Use my referral code: KateDaniel when you sign up for a 7-day free trial to receive 50% off your first year of 17hats OR simply click HERE.


Kate Daniel is a top brand & lifestyle photographer in Calgary, AB. Serving ambitious and creative entrepreneurs in YYC, Treaty 7, Central Alberta and beyond.

Together, we’ll create authentic & scroll-stopping website and social media photos so you can save time, grow your business & get back to living the life you love!

Let’s connect! Sign up for the NEWSLETTER or book a FREE Clarity Call to chat about your photo needs.

Elevate Your Practice with Professional Headshots in Calgary

Headshots

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Karla-Dornacher-artist-brand-photos-easle-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Being a Calgary brand photographer, I tend to shoot mainly in YYC and Central Alberta. But I LOVE travelling and exploring new places. So I always jump at the opportunity to shoot brand photos, wherever creative entrepreneurs live – such as the state of Washington. I mean, who wouldn’t love to go to Washington and Oregon?!

At the time of photographing Karla in her Cozy Cottage Studio in Vancouver, Washington, she believed it would be her forever home. But life has its surprises! She has since embraced an exciting new chapter in Arizona, where her daughter Michelle Allen lives. Be sure to follow along as she generously shares her evolving story on Instagram.

Karla-Dornacher-daughter-Michelle-Allen-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-Michelle-Allen-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-smiling-with-book-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography

When I first met Karla, I was immediately drawn to her warmth and passion for life. As an artist, author, and small business owner, it’s clear that Karla pours her heart into everything she does, from her art to her journey of faith. With over 35,000 sales in her Etsy shop, Karla has built a thriving business offering inspirational art, colouring books, and Bible journaling pages. Her work speaks to the heart, bringing encouragement and joy to all who encounter it.

Karla-Dornacher-dog-at-home-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-loving-dog-home-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography

During our session, we captured a variety of brand photos that beautifully tell the story of Karla Dornacher Designs. These included:

  • Brand Story Images: These are essential for any business, as they visually convey the story behind the brand. For Karla, this meant capturing her surrounded by her art, showcasing her journey of faith and creativity, and letting her personality and passion shine through.
  • Behind-the-Scenes: These candid shots reveal what goes on behind the creation of her beautiful products. I photographed Karla painting, giving a glimpse into her world and creative process. This kind of imagery builds trust by showing the authenticity and care that goes into her work.
  • Lifestyle Portraits: I captured relaxed shots that feature Karla in her element, whether in her workspace or enjoying the comfort of her Cozy Cottage Studio with her dog, Tilly. Lifestyle photos help your audience connect with you personally, making your brand feel more relatable.
Karla-Dornacher-laughing-artist-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-artist-painting-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-artist-studio-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Each of these photo types plays an important role in telling a visual story that connects with Karla’s audience. They let people not only see her art but also feel the passion and story behind it.

I’m honoured to have captured Karla in her Cozy Cottage Studio and am so inspired by how she surrounds herself with colour and love. If you’re looking for art that’s both beautiful and meaningful, I highly recommend checking out Karla Dornacher Designs – her pieces are full of heart, hope, and faith.

Karla-Dornacher-artist-colouring-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-artist-brand-photos-doodling-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography
Karla-Dornacher-artist-brand-photos-holding-ipad-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography

A Brand Photo Session with Artist Karla Dornacher

Business & Brand Photos

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Double-Dutch-Crochet-brand-photos-by-Kate-Daniel-Photography-women-crocheting

If you sell on Etsy, chances are you’ve got amazing shots of your product, craft and/or art. Let me guess, you’re a DIYer and, over the years, you’ve also honed your photography skills using your iPhone for product shots.

Cause we all know we need gorgeous images to sell! 

But how many images do you have of yourself actually DOING your craft, your art, your thing? How well do your customers actually know the YOU behind your products?

Lifestyle and brand photos are a great way to elevate your Etsy game. 

sisters-collaborating-in-home-office-making-Etsy-yarn-products

What are brand photos?

Brand photos are more than just headshots. They’re photos that tell a story about a business; they allow people to get to know the maker behind the making.

They can include product shots, lifestyle imagery, portraits of team members, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and other visuals that align with the brand’s image and objectives.

In short, brand photos visually communicate the essence of a brand.

crochet-pattern-makers-sisters-in-studio-behind-the-scenes

Why are lifestyle and brand photos important for Etsy Sellers?

We all know that product shots are important for Etsy sellers. If we didn’t have images of our products, we simply wouldn’t get any sales! But Etsy sellers shouldn’t stop there. It’s important for customers to see more.

Lifestyle and brand photos are crucial for Etsy sellers for several reasons:

  1. Establishing Brand Identity: Unique and high-quality lifestyle and brand photos help Etsy sellers establish a distinct brand identity. In a marketplace as crowded as Etsy, having strong visuals that differentiate your brand can make your products more memorable to customers.
  2. Building Trust and Credibility: Professionally curated photos convey a sense of professionalism and credibility. When customers see high-quality images, they are more likely to trust the seller and feel confident in the quality of the products being offered.
  3. Creating Emotional Connections: Well-crafted lifestyle and brand photos can evoke emotions and create connections with potential customers. When buyers feel emotionally connected to a brand or product, they’re more likely to make a purchase and become repeat customers.
  4. Improved Visibility and Engagement: Etsy’s search algorithm favours listings with high engagement, including those with eye-catching photos. Having compelling lifestyle and brand photos can increase click-through rates, improve search visibility, and ultimately lead to more sales.
  5. Telling a Story: Lifestyle photos allow Etsy sellers to tell a story about their brand and products. By showcasing the lifestyle associated with their offerings, sellers can create a narrative that resonates with their target audience and sets them apart from competitors.
sisters-selling-crochet-patterns-Etsy-makers

Where can business owners & Etsy sellers use the photos?

You can use your Brand Storytelling photos in various ways, including your:

  • Website: For headers, banners, and about pages.
  • Social Media: For posts, stories, and ads.
  • Marketing Materials: For brochures, flyers, and email campaigns.
  • Product Listings: On Etsy, of course!
  • Blog Posts: To complement and illustrate your content.
  • Online Courses: For course previews and promotional materials.
  • Webinars: For presentations and event promotions.
  • Press Releases: To accompany media coverage and announcements.
  • Client Interaction: To build trust and connection on your about pages.
  • Email Newsletter: To use in your emails to subscribers.
crochet-business-behind-the-scenes-of-product-shots

A bit about Double Dutch Crochet

This super fun brand session was with Jessica and Briane, sisters and business owners of Double Dutch Crochet.

Double Dutch sells amigurami crochet patterns, which includes all the instructions needed for customers to crochet your own stuffed animal. They aim to make it easy and accessible for people of all walks of life, so that they can create their own masterpieces. Anyone can use their patterns, with a little basic knowledge of crochet.

Be sure to watch their tutorials on Youtube to learn, yourself!

Etsy-crochet-business-owners-sisters-with-kids-and-yarn

Photos that reflect their brand

Double Dutch Crochet’s vibe is fun, supportive and creative….so we wanted to capture that in their photoshoot.

Their style is clean, minimalistic and somewhat refined, with pops of colour and fun.

They want people to feel happy, inspired and confident when they look at their images. What do you think? Did we capture their brand with these photos?

business-partners-sisters-collaborating-in-living-room-wearing-sweaters
sisters-sitting-at-dining-table-working-drinking-coffee-wearing-sweaters

Kate Daniel is a top brand & lifestyle photographer in Calgary, AB. Serving ambitious and creative, women entrepreneurs in YYC, Central Alberta and beyond.

Together, we’ll create authentic & scroll-stopping website and social media photos so you can save time, grow your business & get back to living the life you love!

Let’s connect! Sign up for the NEWSLETTER or book a FREE Clarity Call to chat about your photo needs.


Calgary-brand-photographer-Kate-Daniel-Photography-holding-camera

Heard of 17hats? I use it to organize and automate my business. It’s a small business game changer! I’d be lost without it.

Their feature-packed platform saves me time & energy so I can focus on what I do best – photography – not paperwork.

Save 50% off of your first year by using my referral code: KateDaniel. Or sign up for a 7-day FREE TRIAL – simply click HERE.

I’d be happy to share my 17hats experience with you as well! – Kate, 17hats Ambassador

17hats-2024-Referral-coupon-code-Kate-Daniel-Photography

Why Lifestyle and Brand Photos are Essential for Etsy Sellers

Business & Brand Photos

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