Practicing What I Preach: Why This Minneapolis Based Brand Photographer Finally Stepped In Front of the Lens

MinneBrand Photography
Nov 4
3 min read

Have you ever heard the expression, "The shoemaker's children have no shoes?"

It's a cliché for a reason. As a professional brand photographer focused on helping personal brands, local businesses in the Twin Cities metro area, and amazing nonprofit organizations define their visual presence, I recently realized I was a walking, talking example of that phrase.

I spend my days deep-diving into my clients' worlds—identifying their brand voice and story, planning intricate shot lists, and executing a strategy that results in a library of stunning, authentic images. My primary goal is always to deliver the marketing, visual presence, and ROI benefits that come from a strong visual foundation.

But while I was meticulously polishing their images, my own was gathering dust.

The Catalyst: An Unexpected Feature

The realization hit me like a polar plunge when I landed a feature in Voyage Minnesota Magazine. This was a great moment for my business, yet when it came time to send over assets, I was scrambling. I didn't have current, high-quality images of myself that truly reflected the warm and professional brand I bring to every client interaction.

The irony was not lost on me. Here I was, promoting the critical importance of a cohesive visual identity, while simultaneously neglecting my own. The magazine feature, a moment I should have been able to leverage to its fullest, became the catalyst I needed to stop neglecting my awesome personal brand and practice what I preach.

My lesson learned? Having readily available image assets at any moment is key for a brand's agility and growth. You never know when opportunity will knock, and you need to be ready to showcase yourself with confidence.

Using My Own Blueprint: A Brand Deep Dive

It was time to turn my professional lens on myself. The only way forward was to apply the same strategic framework I use for all my clients: my proprietary Visual Authority Blueprint. This isn't just about taking pretty pictures; it’s a deep dive into unlocking a voice and exploring how to show that through photographic composition.

My brand is built on a foundation of diligent planning—the strategy is baked into every image. This approach ensures that while I handle all the technical details, the shoot day itself can be relaxed and fun for everyone involved. Applying the Blueprint to my own needs required stepping back and seeing my brand with fresh eyes:

Revisiting My Voice: What mood do I want to convey to a fellow female personal brand or a community-focused nonprofit? The answer: approachable expertise, trustworthy guidance, and a genuine love for what I do.
Strategic Decisions: This included a complete overhaul of my visuals—not just a simple headshot. I needed a variety of assets: modern headshots, images of me in my element (the planning and preparation!), and personality images that show the real me (yes, embracing the truth of my fluctuating dress size and hair color).
Logistics: The Blueprint factored in location scouting, wardrobe selection, and, crucially, making time for fabulous hair and makeup—a simple investment that contributes immensely to a professional look.

I wanted my brand images to make it clear that I offer comprehensive brand photography services that go beyond just a quick photo session. My goal is to deliver a catalogue of images that are ready to go for your website, social media, marketing collateral, and, yes, that unexpected magazine article.

The Visual Payoff: Investing in Your Own Success

The experience was a powerful reminder of the value I provide and, more importantly, the value you gain when you invest in your own brand.

For my ideal clients—the dedicated small local businesses, the passionate women building their personal empires, and the essential nonprofit organizations—your brand image is your most valuable non-tangible asset.

You gain credibility: Updated, professional images instantly elevate your perceived value.
You gain efficiency: Having a gallery of visual assets means no more scrambling for that last-minute post or press request.
You gain authenticity: When your images truly reflect your brand story and voice, you forge a deeper connection with your ideal client.

The process of stepping back and intentionally curating my own visual story has reinvigorated my brand and equipped me to tackle the next level of growth. It confirmed what I already tell my clients: Your visual presence matters immensely. It’s the first conversation you have with a potential client. Don't let that conversation start with an outdated photo from three years ago.

If you are pouring your heart and soul into your business, it’s time to stop neglecting your own image needs. It’s time to commit to the professional visibility you deserve. Let my lesson serve as your encouragement: Invest in your brand. Update your assets. Be ready for your spotlight moment.