Visual storytelling and personal branding with Chloe from Stories by Chloe

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Today’s talking point:

In this episode, I am joined by Chloe from Stories by Chloe who is a brilliant personal branding photographer. We're discussing what it means to create and capture a personal brand, how to choose a photographer and why a photoshoot doesn't have to be scary!

In this episode, I’m introducing you to Chloe, the brilliant photographer behind the lens of the images you’ll see on the website and my social media. Her passion for what she does just shines through from the moment you book a shoot. From all the prep work and everything through to the day of the shoot, I was so excited because of how Chloe had helped me prepare.

What we talked about:

Every Busy to Boss interview starts by talking about why we do what we do. That’s an easy question for Chloe to answer: it’s her passion.

“I feel so in such a privileged position that business owners trust me with something that is such a big investment. Not necessarily financially, but emotionally. Just choosing me to be the one to tell their story means everything to me, and I love it. So would not want to do anything else.”

personal branding

We started with personal branding and what it means to Chloe. She explains that it can mean different things to different people but her focus is on the brand.

“It means that you photograph your business to show off your brand and its values, and then you bring the personality into your business. It can also be creating images for your business with a personal touch. To me, that's what personal branding or brand photography is: something that focuses on you and your story and your visual needs.”

Chloe works with a range of product and service businesses and says her focys is on telling a story rather than just taking photos.

“The idea behind my work is that all of those pictures create content that is strategy and intention focused.”

She explains that even if you work at a desk, that won’t necessarily mean only taking photos at your desk. Instead, you can use images to explore the customer journey and the transformation your product or service provides.

In our shoot, we took lots of photos with Jacob to represent the idea that I want to help clients free up their time and not spend 24/7 at a desk.

Behind the photos

We discuss Chloe’s process for a photoshoot and she takes us behind her thoughts during a shoot.

“On the day we kind of immerse ourselves into your business, we go into full creative mode, I give it everything.

I was so worried before the shoot and I know you might be too. So I also asked Chloe how we can choose a photographer when we’re nervous to get in front of the camera.

Chloe says the first step is finding a photographer you really connect with.

“Look at Instagram, read testimonials, referrals are great, all of that. But then beyond that, have a call with them. The most important part is how you connect with them. So have a call with them, chat it through, whether you're thinking of doing a shoot next month or in six months. Find out if they're the right person for you.”

Chloe says it’s natural to feel apprehensive about a photo shoot, but it’s essential for small businesses. The key is asking lots of questions prior to the shoot to feel as comfortable as possible about the process and what to expect.

“I think that you can look for reasons to put it off, but find the right person for you and then the rest will fall into place. And it's okay to be nervous. It is a big step, not just financially but more emotionally as well. Most people do not love being in front of the camera. I don't love being in front of a camera. But it's necessary for your business to take it to the next level. And it can actually become fun.”

Make sure you follow Chloe on her journey with Stories by Chloe on Instagram!