Body language tells a story
Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph a branding session with a client who was incredibly expressive with her entire body.
I placed her in different scenarios—sitting at a table, lounging on a couch—and asked her to situate herself naturally within the space and the activities she was engaged in. Whether she was on the phone, working with a client, or focused on her computer, she instantly started moving. Her hands were in motion, her facial expressions constantly shifting with subtle changes in her eyes, eyebrows, and mouth.
These dynamic moments of expression resulted in photos that felt genuine and deeply connected to who she is.
In branding photography, capturing genuine moments is essential to creating images that resonate. When someone moves naturally, the images become more than just posed portraits—they tell a compelling story.
These moments have the power to form a deeper connection with the viewer because they feel real. Body language signals that the subject is engaged in the moment, and in a world full of overly staged images, that authenticity stands out.
Research supports this: humans are wired to respond to body language and facial cues as part of emotional intelligence. A study from Princeton University found that subtle facial expressions significantly affect how emotions are perceived in images. The more candid and genuine a moment appears, the stronger the connection it creates with the viewer.
In contrast, traditional portrait sessions often feel controlled and stiff, resulting in images that can feel disconnected. However, allowing clients to move freely and express themselves naturally creates photos that not only show what they look like but also communicate who they are. This is especially important in branding, where the goal is to capture a person’s essence, not just their appearance.
If you want your branding photos to truly stand out, don’t be afraid to embrace movement and natural body language. The result will be a series of images that reflect your genuine self and forge a deeper connection with your audience.
It’s those real moments that resonate long after the session ends.