Did you know that studies show that instagram posts that show faces have a 40% higher engagement rate?

Let me just start out by saying this…

I can’t even count how many photographers I’ve unfollowed on instagram because I don’t even know who they are. Not because their work isn’t beautiful (it probably is!), but because I don’t recognize them. Seriously. Without having personal branding, nothing set them apart from the hundreds of thousands of other photographers on the platform.

You have to show face.

Ever wonder what’s going to set you apart from an oversaturated market? This 👏🏼is 👏🏼 IT!

Showing your face on instagram creates brand recognition. It is so important to offer our followers/potential clients the opportunity to know who we are and what makes us more than “just another photographer.” And we can do this, by SHOWING FACE. Show up for your people and let them visualize who is hiding behind those pretty photos.

Cultivating a personal brand differentiates you from the rest of the competition. Your authenticity will set you apart and make a real first impression that will build trust and reflect who you are.

People like to buy from real people.

Personal branding is connected directly to you and helps your clients put a face to your business. Showing up as yourself on your instagram page allows your “followers” to know, like, and trust you. This is what turns followers into paying customers.

People love to buy from people. More importantly, people love to buy from people they like. Allow your community to fall in love with YOU and I guarantee you’ll have more bookings from that change alone.

It creates connection.

Showing your face on instagram gives your photography brand an identity. An identity that NOBODY else can embody because nobody can be a better you, than you.

Not only does having a personal brand create recognition, but it builds genuine trust. Being able to see the face and personality behind someone’s brand creates a true and real connection, even over the internet. Letting people relate to us provides huge value to both us and our business.

It shows vulnerability.

Being vulnerable can be a scary thing for a lot of people. Imagine booking a photographer you don’t know and being expected to show up and be comfortable getting your picture taken by them.

Majority of the time, our clients are not models. We shouldn’t expect that they are going to show up for their session and be entirely comfortable. However, giving them the opportunity to get to know us before they even slide into our inquiry box, will truly change the experience as a whole.

Build those connections, create relationships, and show up for your community. You are more than just your pretty photos. People want to know who is behind that camera of yours. So stop hiding and go post that selfie!

xx, Molls

Want more? Check out my 5 ways how to embrace the REAL you!