Why Headshots Are Worth It (and way more fun than you think!)

When you find someone who can make you feel comfortable, capture your personality, and bring out the essence of your brand – that’s where the magic happens.

We regularly collaborate with Michelle Jarni, a Melbourne-based photographer who has this effortless ability to make people feel totally at ease in front of the camera. Recently, Jarni worked with Leiah Golden, homeopath and owner of Wholistic Health Macedon Ranges, to create a series of beautiful, natural headshots for her clinic.

The results? Relaxed, warm photos that feel exactly like Leiah, and perfectly aligned with the tone and look of her brand (created by us! Hello!). We also got to use the images across her website and social media, so everything feels cohesive and genuinely “her.”

We asked Leiah a few questions about her experience, from how she prepared for her shoot, to how she feels now seeing her face and space across her brand.

Amy: Hey Leiah! How were you feeling before the shoot – excited, nervous, a mix of both?

Leiah: I was so excited to be finally getting some professional photos of myself as I’ve always loved seeing other practitioners and business owners, but just never thought to do my own. But with such a beautiful, professional and premium website being created I knew I had to match the vibe.

How did you prepare? (e.g. choosing outfits, thinking about the setting, chatting with Michelle beforehand?)

Of course I brought so many outfits to the clinic on the day as I had no idea what would work, but Michelle was able to easily tell me what would look best on camera and she guided the whole shoot.

Did you have any worries about being in front of the camera?

Yes!! For the same reasons that almost every girl in the world would lol.. But I have to say once I got going, I loved it and it was so much fun.

What were you hoping the photos would capture or say about your business?

I wanted the images to capture me, who I really am, which I really feel they did. I wanted to look approachable, professional, and kind – all the qualities that I feel all health practitioners should have.

How did Jarni help you feel comfortable?

She is just so professional and down to earth, it was easy to feel comfortable from the very start. You can tell she has done it many times before so I was so happy to take all of her expertise guidance and just enjoy the day.

What was the vibe of the day – relaxed, fun, organised chaos?

All of the above!! It was a long day (more for Michelle than myself) but I couldn’t believe how much she managed to complete in one day.

Were there any moments that stood out (like laughing at something, or when you realised “oh, this is actually fun!”)?

Seeing my products look so good on the screen was amazing. I felt so proud of all I have achieved in my career AND we took these headshots outside in front of this beautiful foliage. When I saw them on her camera I was like, “how beautiful do I look!!”

How did you feel when you first saw the photos?

So proud and so excited for everyone to see them.

Do you feel like they capture who you are and what your clinic is about?

Perfectly. Every time I post a head shot on socials or within the website I get so many positive comments, and they are definitely my most viewed post. People really just want to connect with people.  

What was it like seeing your own face and space on your new website and socials?

It was really such a magical moment when we first went live with the new website and online store, rebranded and just looking and feeling so fresh. I couldn’t wait for all of my friends and family to see it. 

Have clients or followers commented on the new photos?

I get positive feedback every day, and having so much great content now makes posting and keeping to the look and feel of the website so easy.

Would you do another shoot in the future?

Yes!! Well I am going to book early next year as I have just changed my hair colour, so now I want some new ones for my next website!

Any advice for other small business owners who are thinking about getting headshots done but feel nervous?

Treat yourself!! You will look and feel amazing. You and your business deserve it. 

Michelle makes the whole experience so much fun and it is just so nice to look at a photo of yourself and know you look amazing.

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The right photographer (like our friend Michelle!) will make the whole thing feel like you’re just hanging out and having a chat, and you’ll walk away with images that actually feel like you.

And honestly, seeing yourself represented in your business is a pretty lovely reminder of how far you’ve come.

If you’d love to refresh your visuals or you’re not sure where to start, get in touch with us. We’re always happy to connect you with photographers we love or help plan how new imagery can fit into your brand story.