The importance of branding for photographers
More than a logo
Brands are a fundamental part of our everyday lives. In a world of bewildering choice they help us navigate, make decisions and express ourselves; not just our style and taste, but the things that are important to us, the stuff we believe in, our sense of identity, who we are, who our friends are.
A business’s brand is vitally important to its success. It’s so much more than a logo and the colours we associate with it. Brand is actually the whole identity and personality of a business, it’s how a business sets itself apart and builds trust. That’s why establishing and building a brand is just as important for smaller businesses, as for huge global ones – our brand is where we meet our customers.
Your unique point of view
Creating a distinct, consistently recognisable brand is the key to connecting with and retaining the clients you need to build a successful photography business. As photographers we are in a unique position to show the world our point of view, the special way we see things. Though your imagery may be different every time, developing a consistent visual language and tone of voice for your brand, sets you apart form your competitors and builds trust and loyalty with your customers.
Brand 101
So what exactly is a brand anyway? A name, a logo? These are definitely part of it, but a brand’s visual identity is built through a whole combination of things: name, logo, typography, colour palette, design language, blended together these are the things that make a brand visually distinct and recognisable, but underpinning and connecting all these elements together is your brand’s story.
Axis Studios, brand guidelines summary
Telling your story
To capture a customer’s imagination and connect with them emotionally a brand needs to tell a good story.
In essence your brand story is the promise that differentiates you, it’s the same promise that is consistently brought to life in everything you do. There are of course many ways of telling stories, and as photographers we have the advantage of working in perhaps the most naturally expressive storytelling medium there is.
Deciding the story you want your photography to tell, and the values and vision you want your images to express is the key to creating a meaningful brand story. It’s a story that will be articulated not only through your photography, but through your entire brand, wherever, and however you show up. Whether in print, online, or social media, your brand is all the things that people think and feel whenever they hear your name.
How i can help
I have over 20 years experience applying my skills in design and art direction to tell stories for many different global brands. As a photographer myself, I understand, how powerful photography is in creating the foundation for a unique, compelling and consistent brand.
Beginning with a close look at your portfolio, I usually ask for around 6-12 key images to work with. Using these as my inspiration I will develop mood boards look at a range of colour, typographic and brand styles to create a suite of elements that best reflect your work, and bring your unique brand story to life.
Get in touch for a free 20 minute consultation about your brand
nic@ilikeblue.co.uk
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