How to take good photos - to support your personal brand

Описание: If you hate being photographed, you’re not alone!

In this episode of Annette Minihan’s Podcast, Annette talks with personal brand photographer Kate Swerdlow, the person behind Annette’s most-used photos across LinkedIn, newsletters, and content.

Kate shares what people say the second they step in front of the camera (“Can you make me look thin?”, “What do I do with my arms?”, “Are you good at Photoshop?”), Why smartphones and social media have made us more self-critical, and how to get natural, authentic photos that actually build trust.

If you’re building a personal brand, selling a service, or simply need better photos for LinkedIn, this episode gives you a practical checklist for showing up with confidence, even if you feel awkward.

Key topics we cover
• The most common fears people have on camera (and how to handle them)
• Why people hate photos more now than ever
• The real secret: trust and direction, not “being photogenic”
• What makes a great personal brand photo (honesty and authenticity)
• Why candid “in-between moments” often become your best images

The 3 essential photo types for your personal brand:
1. clean professional headshot
2. you in action, in your real work environment
3. something personal that makes you relatable

If you can only do one shoot a year: how to plan outfits, locations, and crops for maximum reuse
• How to prepare the day before (sleep, hair, makeup, and what you can control)
• Advice for 45+ professionals: stop hiding, bring your experience to the front
Transcript
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Annette Minihan's Podcast from Careers Unpacked