In this episode of the Apple Cart, I’m joined by Catherine Turner to talk about how to feel more comfortable having your photos taken.

Catherine is THE photographer for founders and business owners who want to look like the experts they are but not in a stuffy-pants way!

She makes sure you shine the way you are supposed to, ensuring you attract the right kind of clients for you, you feel great about doing it and you continue to grow as that go-to human in your industry.

Listen to the Interview

Why you Need Professional Photos

First of all, Catherine explains the difference between a headshot and brand photos. “The headshot is your profile picture for social media, and you can wear a suit or a twinkly outfit, whatever makes you comfortable. It’s simple and relaxed and there’s not much to it.

“Your brand images are a set of photos that are the physical embodiment of your brand. The movement, the thoughts, the words that represent it, and you. They might involve moving around, or being shot on location, which gives a different vibe.

“But you do need both types of photo, because they help to create a message about you and your brand. When you’re creating a blog or social post, you have a picture in your armoury that will help to illustrate the point you want to make. It suits the theme and it’s quick and easy to use.”

Catherine adds that it’s really important to have your face somewhere so people know who you are and can connect with you. “Our brains are hardwired to take notice of faces and pay attention to what they’re doing, and pay attention to any cues and thoughts and feelings that they give us.”

How to Feel Confident on Camera

Many people feel awkward or uncomfortable about having their photos taken, and there are different reasons for that. “It might be about their physical appearance, their clothing or they worry what people will think about them.

“But in truth, nobody is thinking anything about you. They’re not looking at the details that worry you so much. They’re getting an overall vibe or feeling about you, and that’s all.”

And because photos are so important to help build trust, Catherine says you have to have a reframe (pun intended!) “Think about how much you love what you do, and why you need to be able to sell it. If you don’t put your face on it, you can’t sell it.

“That’s the bottom line. You want your clients and potential clients to have confidence in what you do, so you just need to be brave. A good photographer will talk through the shoot ahead of time and reassure you throughout the process.”

Why Conferences and Networking are a Good Business Investment

There’s a lot of value to be had by attending conferences and networking events. However, you need to choose the right ones. We’ve all been to local networking where nobody’s interested in you and what you do.

“That’s a waste of time,” says Catherine, “And time is precious. It’s also a big investment to go to a conference, because it’s not just one day out of your time. You have to think about travel and accommodation, any family commitments or pet-sitting needs.

“So choose an event where you’ll meet like-minded people. Not with the intention of selling, but to make connections and grow your network. Have conversations and enjoy yourself with people you meet, and you build lasting relationships. And that’s on top of any nuggets you get from the event itself.”

Why you Should Work with a Business Coach

Catherine has worked with several business coaches for different reasons over the last few years. “It’s so important to choose the right coach at the right time. They all do different things, so work out what you need help with right now.

“Say you find sales and selling hard. It’s not a mindset issue, so you don’t choose a mindset coach. You need a sales coach. But if you’re struggling with your confidence or imposter syndrome, then a mindset coach is the right choice.

“Find someone who can help you to move past whatever you’re stuck with. It’s a big investment, so you need to know you’ll get a return on it. I know I need to do the work – they don’t do it for me. But I have to listen to what they say, and then go away and do it.”

How to be More Creative

Catherine’s advice on how to be more creative might not be what you’d expect. “I’d say – do less. Take a break for an hour or so. Have a walk and give yourself space for creative ideas to come into your head.

“Don’t push yourself and do too much. Do less and let the ideas flow. And then be brave enough to try something new. It’s only temporary, but it’s really powerful. Let your mind wander.

“When we were kids we had little toy cars that you pull back across the floor; when you let them go they ping away. Think of your ideas as cars pinging away, and listen to what comes through. Those cars are ideas forming and creativity happening.”

Timestamps

• 02:09 – 09:13: How Catherine got into photography
• 09:38 – 11:47: How a remote photoshoot works
• 12:23 – 19:04: Why you should work with a professional photographer
• 20:00 – 22:21: How to feel confident on camera
• 24:27 – 28:15: Using props in brand photos
• 33:36 – 35:02: Catherine’s favourite shoots
• 36:02 – 42:05: Why conferences and networking are a good business investment
• 44:17 – 46:02: Why you should invest in a business coach
• 46:37 – 48:50: How to be more creative 

Useful Links

• Visit Catherine’s website
• Like Catherine on Facebook
• Connect with Catherine on LinkedIn
• Follow Catherine on Instagram
• Brand and marketing coach: Nicole Osborne
• Photo app: Shutter
• Photo app: Clos
• Marketing coaches: Andrew and Pete
• Video marketing agency: Jammy Digital
• Apple Cart interview with Janine Coombes
• Marketing conference: Atomicon
• Marketing conference: You Are the Media Creator Day