Commercial photographer, content photographer, brand photographer. 

These are common terms and I’ve been asked many times what the difference is. And which one best serves my business needs?

I’m a brand photographer, and in this post, I’ll explain: 

1. what it is;
2. how it helps your business grow; 
3. the difference between a commercial photographer and a content creator; 
4. and my 1:1 Mentoring Program, created especially for brand photographers.

Before we begin, it’s important to know what a brand is. A brand is a distinct identity, created through consistent design, advertising, and packaging. When your customers see any of this, the goal is that they immediately recognize it as elements of your brand.

What Is a Brand Photographer?

“Brand photography” is a relatively new term in the industry, thanks to the explosive growth of online marketing. Using the definition of “brand” above, a brand photographer understands her client’s unique identity as a business and creates images that connect the business with its target markets in a compelling, consistent way. 

How a Brand Photographer Helps Your Business Grow

I partner with my clients to fully understand their business and brand, then deliver quality photography that connects their products to their customers. To accomplish this, I need to know my client’s:

• product offerings.
• brand values and aesthetics.
• USP (unique selling proposition).
• marketing strategies.
• target markets.

Armed with this knowledge, I create shot lists and use experienced photography, editing skills, and styling tools to take images that align with the bullet points above. The results help your brand grow by being cohesive, telling a consistent story, and can be used across platforms, including:

• social media posts.
• website.
• ad campaigns.
• print collateral.

Commercial Photographer vs. Content Creator

Commercial Photographer

As I said earlier, thanks to the growth of online sales, “brand photography” is a relatively new term. Earlier, someone who photographed products, food, and lifestyle settings would be called a “commercial photographer.” Think of companies who hire marketing agencies to come in and do day-long photo shoots with teams dedicated to different tasks – that’s commercial photography. You may also hire a commercial photographer when you need headshots for your website or social media.

Content Creator

A content creator is great when you need 300 shots for upcoming social media posts. They don’t have to understand your business brand or goals; their strength lies in meeting a short-term need with quick turnaround. 

Both of these professionals serve important purposes; they’re just not brand photographers. Simply put, a brand photographer cares about your business and invests in your growth.   

Feeling Challenged? My 1:1 Mentoring Program Will Help!

If you’re a photographer who’s been challenged by this post, I encourage you to keep going! I’m seven years into brand photography and still get excited about learning more and perfecting my skills. Every new client comes to me with challenges that push me and expand my comfort zone. 

I also encourage you to keep connecting with clients. As I met with small business owners who couldn’t afford $10,000 of commercial photography, but still needed a professional photographer who understood their brand, I knew I could answer their needs! 

As my business expanded, I also recognized that other photographers need support and opportunities to grow, so I developed my 1:1 Mentoring Program.

1:1 Mentoring – Take Your Business to the Next Level

Are you an aspiring photographer or brand photographer with 1 – 3 years of experience? 

My 1:1 Mentoring Program will teach you:

• photography tips to give you an edge.
• editing skills to help polish your work.
• strategies to grow your business.

My program launches September 25, 2024!  I’ve mentored fellow photographers and have seen their business flourish as a result. I’d love to do the same for you! Email me at caitlinantje@gmail.com and let’s get started.