Counselor Headshots | Branding and beyond | Seattle and Bellingham, WA
CALLING ALL COUNSELORS!!!
You want to know a secret about Psychology Today and marketing??
Well guess what. YOUR PHOTO MATTERS.
(Secret deal below!)
When it comes to being a therapist, I have been told by client after client that they selected me more because of my photo than my bio. Which tells me a lot about an image. Clients see my photo and see someone that they can connect with. [To be honest I am not sure why they see that in me but they do]. But the difference is that I had professional photos done in my natural environment that show you who I am!
When I asked my friend Elyssa (Instagram here) to take my photos for work and for social media, I had no idea it would be as effective as it has been. It has enhanced both of my businesses behind belief.
My mission is to help support other therapists on this journey to finding clients through their photos. I know how hard taking photos can be on your own. We’re always our own worst critic, therefore by hiring support there is less pressure and more excitement to the process.
Now I am not saying ONLY therapists need this. I believe all professionals need this but I am aiming this at my colleagues because it is something that means a lot to our clients especially in a telemedicine world and means a lot to me to give back to a set of first responders we don’t often give good attention too.
Now I could get on a soap box about being underpaid for our level of education and job overhead and mental exhaustion but I will save that for a rainy day. But let me just say the surprise below may help support that rainy day rant.
Since switching to Tele-therapy my clients really feel like the photo was the most important.
Here are my tips to getting a GREAT profile photo:
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Find a photographer whose photos you really enjoy. And maybe who you really vibe with. Read their bios, meet them or call them for a consult. Trust me it makes a difference!
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Put together an outfit or two that feels like it best expresses who you are and that matches your personality. AND is comfortable. Example: if you want to express being warm and welcoming colors like dark greens and dark purples (jewel tones) are the best! I highly recommend solids with maybe a tiny jewlery accent!
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Find a location that is not to overwhelming and serene. Most of the time photographers can help figure out great locations. I don’t do indoor style shoots, they look to cold. (BUT thats my opinion.) We are surrounded by fabulous backdrops here in Washington. Two of my favorites are Pioneer Square and Downtown Edmonds.
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If you aren’t comfortable doing hair and make up ask your photographer if they offer or know someone that can do a really great simple natural look for you. This helps with the whole experience. My favorite is Arianna Scott Make up, Natasha Gendron Make up, Sweet Pea Beauty or Beauty By Elizabeth Marie and many many more amazing artists.
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And Finally Relax :) Just like we tell our clients to do, find your center, breath and affirm.
Here are a few examples of people who have chosen to do Psychology Today profile photos with me :)
*Ps. this Blog post is not affiliated with PsychologyToday.com this is from my own experience and research from being a therapist and photographer.
If you are interested in doing a professional headshot sessions with me! GO BOOK :) I’ll be waiting!