Video vs. Photography: Why Professional Photos Remain Essential in Building a Personal Brand
Video is everywhere - Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube - but does that mean photos are less important?
Absolutely not. In fact, while video has its place, professional photography is the foundation of a strong personal brand.
The power of professional photos - what video can’t do
Photography offers unique advantages that video both can’t replace and is unable to do:
1. Instant recognition and impact
A great photo communicates your professionalism, personality, and brand values in a split second.
People remember faces better when paired with a recognisable, well-lit portrait.
2. Timeless versatility
Professional photos are adaptable. You can use them for digital and print use e.g. LinkedIn profiles, speaking engagements, website banners, PR features, social media posts, printed brochures, business cards, and more.
Unlike video, which may become outdated quickly due to style or format trends (remember those dancing videos we cringe over now? Or even trying to keep up with the trends,,!), high-quality personal branding photos retain their value over time.
3. Effortless professionalism
High-quality photos instantly add polish and legitimacy to your personal brand.
They set the tone for how others perceive your work and can quickly build trust.
Personal branding photos of popular, well-known illustrator, surface pattern designer, and educator Mel Armstrong by photographer Tabitha Arthur
How video complements professional photos in branding
Video can’t be ignored, but it’s not the answer to everything:
1. The strength of video
It captures dynamic moments, tells a story, and showcases personality.
Perfect for tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, or long-form storytelling.
2. The challenges of video
Time-consuming to produce: From scripting to shooting and editing, creating a professional-looking video takes significant effort. This can lead to a higher investment in your time and money - and stress.
Skill-dependent: Effective video requires expertise in lighting, sound, editing, and delivery.
Platform-specific: Videos need to be tailored to specific formats (e.g., Instagram, YouTube, TikTok), making them less versatile than photos.
Not an automatic win - it could work against you: Many people assume that creating reels or videos will instantly grow their audience, followers, or client base – but success requires more than just posting a video. Factors like content quality, messaging, consistency, and audience engagement are critical. A ‘talking-head’ video that’s not engaging, feel overly script, or lacks that spark can even turn off your audience. Without a solid strategy and thoughtful execution, even a well-produced video can fall flat.
Personal branding photos of high-performing, award-winning real estate duo Jit & Jiggy Govind by photographer Tabitha Arthur
Why photos still matter more in key areas
Even in the age of video, professional photos are irreplaceable:
1. Greater longevity
Photos can remain relevant for years, while videos often feel outdated due to shifting trends or even slight changes in your appearance or brand.
I have clients that are still using professional branding photos we took years ago, as they are still working for them.
2. Broader usability
A single photo can be repurposed across countless mediums and platforms quickly and easily. Videos typically have a single-use case or require significant editing to adapt for different formats.
For example: A professional headshot can be your LinkedIn profile image, appear in a press kit, be shared on social media, and feature in a magazine - all without needing updates or alterations.
You can quickly add music to a static image or carousel, or use a photo as a background on a reel. Add a caption, and you can whip up content much more quickly than finding the clips to use and editing together a reel.
3. Ease of accessibility
Photos load faster, work seamlessly in print, and don’t require sound or motion to communicate effectively.
They make an immediate impact, while video demands the audience’s time and attention to consume fully.
4. Reduced complexity
Hiring a professional photographer for a personal branding session is straightforward and efficient. Producing a high-quality video requires a script, production team, location scouting, and post-production editing.
For business, reels aren’t the magic pill. Including a mix is really helpful. Studies show a carousel is great for engagement - I use a template, which means I make these so much quicker than a reel.
5. Trust and professionalism
For key moments like media profiles, speaking engagements, or LinkedIn introductions, people expect a polished, professional photo.
A well-crafted photo establishes trust and authority in seconds.
Personal branding photos of well-known, highly-regarded international speaker, coach and author Jess Stuart by photographer Tabitha Arthur
Why you need both (but should start with photos)
1. Photos lay the foundation
A professional photo serves as your visual first impression. It draws people in and establishes a strong baseline for your brand.
Even if you eventually invest in video, your photos will always be the first thing people see on LinkedIn, business cards, your website, and event programs.
2. Video as a complement, not a replacement
Once you’ve captured attention with stunning visuals, use video to tell more of your story.
For example: A headshot might open the door to opportunities, and a follow-up video might help seal the deal.
Personal branding photos of in-demand consultant Karl Arndt by photographer Tabitha Arthur
Photos and videos aren’t competitors - they’re partners.
Professional personal branding photos open doors and elevate your brand.
Photos and videos aren’t competitors - they’re partners. But when it comes to creating a lasting first impression and building a versatile, professional image, photos should be your priority.
If you’re ready to elevate your personal brand, find out more about popular expert personal branding photographer Tabitha Arthur here.
