How a Branding Photoshoot Changed the Trajectory of My Business

A branding session with Evelyn changed my entire perspective on how I want to run my business. The first time I met Ev was on the patio of Santi’s Mexican Restaurant. My friends and I had polished off a pitcher of margaritas when she pushed the adjacent table next to ours and introduced herself. We were celebrating a mutual friend’s birthday and her family had ventured out to partake in the festivities.

If you’ve ever been to Santi’s then you know that their decor taste is unique. In my opinion, I think they visit Goodwill, pick out the craziest items and re-home them around the restaurant. Any surface they find to fill the gap is where the piece will live. It is eccentric to say the least.

Ev’s sons also tagged along for dinner. As all children are, the boys were less interested in chatting with adults and more fixated on finding the hidden treasures buried within the garden. I felt the same and decided to join them on an adventure.

So, I followed as the three and five-year-old scurried to one side of the patio and then to the other side. They zig-zagged their way to each clue. It was similar to a canine tracking the scent of a big lead. (I forgot how fun it was to be a kid.)

Along the way, the detectives pointed out every single superhero they could find. It was a real life “Where’s Waldo” tour. We found Spiderman (who takes no days off of the job) dangling by the ledge of the porch railing. His wrist was pointing towards his next opponent. Meanwhile, Superman was relaxing by the coy pond, fishing rod close-by. We talked about the iconic characters and which were our favorites. I remember laughing and enjoying every second of their funny insights and witty banter.

Fast forward a couple months later Ev had quit her 9-5. She was looking to build and create branding content as she took steps to launch her music career. After seeing my work, she inquired about a photography session. We met to discuss her vision for the photoshoot and how I could help bring it to life. Over cups of coffee and bowls of ramen, we poured into the details and steadily began ticking off items on our to-do list. We finalized venues, reviewed outfits, created shot lists and locked down dates ensuring the photoshoot would go as smoothly as we planned in our heads.

Our business dates also gave us an opportunity to really get to know each other. Ev shared pieces of her story and didn’t shy away from challenging conversation. And I listened as she recounted the experiences that shaped her into the strong and capable woman she is today. Each rugged edge fit neatly beside the smooth ones, intertwining as the bigger picture unfolded. Her candor and vulnerability was inspiring and a reminder as to why I pursue this career.

Also, our meetings were the reinforcement I needed that I can do this. I can approach shoots differently.

My passion isn’t just photography, it’s portraits. It’s you. I look forward to the conversations I have with clients and I strive to get to know every person I work with on a deeper level. By understanding the faces that fill my camera viewfinder and seeing their hearts, I’m able to capture them and their personalities better. Authentically. (And maybe even walk away with a new friend).

Ev gave me such an incredible gift that I know will change the trajectory of my business. Leading with heart and leaning into connection is how I always want to approach my work. Thankful for her and that reminder. 

As I was leaving the shoot I had flashbacks to the first evening we met. In my mind, she is the real superhero in the story.

Check out more photos from the shoot!

All photographs taken by Emily Barnes

Venues: Frontier Lounge, The Commodore