Branding Session for an EMDR therapist

Branding Spotlight - BARBARA TEMPLETON EMDR therapIST

Show your clients who you are before they walk through the door

If you’re a therapist, coach, or wellness professional, your brand starts with you. And your headshot shouldn’t be an afterthought.

We recently worked with Barbara, an EMDR therapist, who wanted to update her branding portraits to better reflect her professional identity. Her goal was simple but powerful: to create a visual first impression that was open, trustworthy, and aligned with the calming, supportive space she offers her clients.

My name is Barbara Templeton, and I am a licensed EMDR therapist. I am deeply passionate about EMDR therapy because I have witnessed firsthand its transformative power in individuals’ lives. I chose this path because EMDR is a scientifically validated approach. My mission is to assist individuals in liberating themselves from limiting beliefs that perpetuate outdated patterns of behavior, which can manifest in various health challenges. I work with individuals seeking a fulfilling, productive, peaceful, and healthy life.

Barbara Templeton LMFT, MS, E-RYT

Helping others live with greater resilience and self compassion.

“Providing peace and power to individuals through therapy, yoga and meditation”

It has been an honor to support clients in reducing or eliminating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors, and negative thought patterns. Additionally, I assist them in navigating complex relationships and processing traumas such as sexual assault and various forms of abuse. My ultimate objective is to provide attentive listening and guide clients in eliminating negative core beliefs. I empower them to replace these beliefs with positive affirmations.

My clients come from diverse backgrounds, spanning the teenage years to the elderly. EMDR facilitates the brain’s natural healing process, leading to holistic healing on all dimensions of an individual’s well-being.

Clients are looking for connection before they ever reach out. A warm, authentic portrait can be the first step in building trust. Especially for therapists, where the relationship is the work, your photos need to communicate more than just what you look like—they need to show who you are.

What We Focused On

For Barbara’s session, we prioritized:

Natural light and soft tones to reflect a calm, safe space
Professional yet approachable wardrobe choices that echoed her overall brand palette
Poses and expressions that showed compassion, attentiveness, and calm confidence

The result? A cohesive gallery of portraits that she can use across her website, Psychology Today profile, social media, and marketing materials—all reinforcing the same message: grounded, open, and professional care.

Ready to Update Your Branding Portraits?

Whether you’re redoing your website or launching your practice, your branding images are key. We specialize in portraits that go beyond the basic headshot. Every session is tailored to highlight what makes your business unique—with photos that feel real, aligned, and professional.

Reach out to schedule your session or learn more about our process with a free branding consultation. Let your future clients see the person they’ll be trusting with their care.

What to wear for your Branding Portraits

What to wear for Headshots

Branding Portrait Style Guide

Styling a branding photoshoot to get the most bang for your buck …… But where to begin?

What to wear for Headshots and Branding Photoshoots

A branding headshot is more than just a picture—it’s a visual representation of your business, your personality, and the message you want to convey to potential clients. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative professional, or corporate executive, preparing for a successful branding photoshoot can be the key to making a memorable impression. The goal is to feel confident, look approachable, and reflect your unique brand identity. Here’s a guide on how to style and prepare for your branding headshot photoshoot, including what to wear, what props to bring, and how to align everything with your ideal client and brand message.

Styling tips to consider

Define Your Brand Identity and Message

Before you even think about what to wear or bring, take a step back and clarify your brand identity. Ask yourself:

Who is my ideal client?
Are you targeting corporate professionals, creative entrepreneurs, or everyday consumers? Your headshot should align with the audience you want to attract. For instance, a corporate executive might opt for a polished, formal look, while a lifestyle coach may prefer a more casual, approachable vibe.
What are my brand values and personality?
Think about your brand’s voice and tone. Is your brand fun and playful? Minimalistic and modern? Warm and approachable? Choose clothing and styling that speaks to these values. Your headshot should feel like a natural extension of your brand persona.
What colors represent my brand?
If you already have a color palette for your brand, incorporate those colors into your wardrobe or background for a cohesive look. Whether it’s a bold red, calming blue, or neutral tones, using your brand colors will help reinforce your identity and make your photos feel consistent with the rest of your marketing materials.

What to wear for Headshots and branding - use props

Choose Items That Enhance Your Story

Props can be a great way to add personality to your headshot and emphasize your professional identity. However, less is more—choose items that feel authentic to your brand and won’t overpower you in the photo.

Technology and Tools of Your Trade: If you’re in a tech-savvy industry or work with specific tools, props like a laptop, tablet, or microphone can subtly convey your profession.
Personal Touches: Consider props that reflect your personality or field of expertise. A coffee cup, make up brushes, a camera or a book related to your industry can add warmth and authenticity to your image. Just be careful not to overcrowd the photo—keep props to a minimum.

Choose Outfits That Reflect Your Brand

Your clothing choices will play a significant role in how you come across in your headshot. The goal is to look polished but not overly stiff, professional but still approachable.

Stick to Solid Colors: Solid colors tend to photograph better than patterns, which can distract from your face. Choose colors that complement your skin tone and align with your brand palette. If you’re unsure, classic neutrals like black, white, gray, navy, or earth tones work well. Bright colors can be effective if they reflect your brand’s energy.
Consider Your Brand’s Personality: For a more relaxed or casual brand, you might opt for a smart-casual look—think a neat button-down shirt or a simple top paired with a jacket or cardigan for a layered look.
If you’re a creative professional or entrepreneur, consider wearing something that shows off your style but still looks polished. A tailored blazer with a pop of color or a sleek blouse can project confidence without being too formal.

Show your Personality!

Small businesses and solo entrepreneurs are not just selling a product. You are selling the experience of working with you. Don’t be afraid to show your personality, authenticity is appreciated and valued.

Relax and Be Natural: Keep your body language open and approachable.
Eyes and Expression: Your expression should convey confidence without being too intense. A natural smile or a soft, serious look can help reflect your personality. Think about your brand message: Are you warm and friendly, or are you more authoritative and professional? Tailor your expression accordingly.

Casual branding portrait that shows personality

What to wear for Headshots and branding - express your personality

A well-executed branding headshot can elevate your professional image and communicate your brand’s personality to potential clients or partners. By carefully considering your wardrobe, props, and the message you want to convey, you’ll ensure your photos speak volumes about who you are and what your business stands for. The key is to keep everything aligned with your brand’s core values while looking authentic, approachable, and confident. Good luck, and don’t forget to enjoy the process—after all, this is your moment to shine!

Ready to elevate your brand?

Now you know what to wear for your headshots!

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Personal Branding Images

Meet Denise Watson

Business Performance Coach, Trainer, and PR Professional.

I had a chance to talk and get to know Denise Watson and she told me all about her love of business coaching. That of course led to a conversation on personal branding images, online first impressions, websites, consistency in branding message, and before you know it she was in my studio! I wanted to share her thoughts on choosing me as a personal branding photographer to create the images she will use on her website and social media.

In Denise’s own words:

Put Your Best Face Forward!

“As a business performance coach and public relations professional, I am quite discerning with my choice of collaborators – whether they are photographers, business partners, or patrons.

When you become your own business, it is imperative to have a personal and professional brand that complements the work you do – your vision, your mission, and your values. Quality images that portray your true and authentic self are an absolute necessity to that brand.

I knew immediately that I was in the right hands to help create the images for my brand when Janet asked, “Who is your ideal client?”

And, then she went on to talk about how to attract the ideal clients with a span of styles and poses. Essentially, her ideas of depicting how your true and authentic self goes into your brand dovetails perfectly with my own ideals.

Most importantly, Janet and I agreed that you must love what you see, or you simply won’t share it. Sharing the real you is essential to your success. For many, like myself, to face forward confidently for photos and then share them with the world is a daunting task. Photos are forever, right?

I can say wholeheartedly, “I love what I see! I am excited to share!”

Thanks to Janet, even my camera-shy self is devising what my future photo sessions will look like.

Janet Taub of Planet Photo is officially my photographer of choice. Her personal touch, astute awareness, and depth of talent supports the focus of her clients – personally and professionally.”

Denise Ann Watson | Ardent Image Designs, LLC.

MUA: Candee Caldwell

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