Hate Marketing Yourself? Here’s What Actually Works
If the thought of “marketing yourself” makes you cringe a little, you’re in good company. Most business owners I know would rather do literally anything else than talk about themselves online.
But here’s the truth: your next great opportunity - that dream client, that podcast interview, that media feature - can’t find you if you’re hiding. Luckily, there’s a way to show up that doesn’t feel fake or forced… and it actually works.
Because at the end of the day, most business owners want the same two things: more high-quality clients, and more consistent revenue.
But there’s one thing that gets in the way for nearly everyone:
Marketing.
I can almost hear the collective groan.
Because marketing often feels awkward, forced, or fake - especially for people who built their business around genuine care and expertise.
But here’s a reframe that might change how you see it:
Marketing isn’t about shouting louder.
It’s about helping the people who already need your help find you.
And that’s where your personal brand comes in.
Right now, there are people out there struggling with exactly what you’re brilliant at solving. You are the answer they’re searching for - but can they see you?
A quick experiment:
Google your name.
What comes up?
If you were your ideal client, would you instantly trust you as the expert they’ve been looking for?
If your answer’s “eh, not really,” that’s okay. It just means you have an opportunity - a big one - to take control of how you’re showing up online.
And if you can’t find you?.. I’m sorry to say, but being a secret isn’t getting you those great opportunities.
This is where brand photography changes everything.
When you intentionally shape your visual brand - with authentic, strategic photos that show your personality and professionalism - you not only look more credible, you become more visible and magnetic to the right clients.
Before I became a personal branding photographer, I rebranded my own business using this exact approach. The results?
I 16x’d my revenue. (Honestly, how would you feel if you took your annual income and multiplied it by 16?)
My dream clients were pre-sold before I even spoke to them.
They happily paid four figures upfront because they already trusted me.
That’s the power of strong, authentic visual branding.
It builds familiarity, trust, and connection before you’ve even met.
My photos now work for me 24/7 - they show up where I can’t, start conversations while I sleep, and make introductions before I even say a word.
When I go to events, people come up to me saying, “I feel like I already know you.”
Inquiries are convinced I’m the right photographer for them because they’ve seen me enough to just know.
That’s the goal. Visibility that builds trust - and trust that builds business.
Here’s how to start showing up with confidence:
Use real photos of you.
Work with a photographer who helps you feel relaxed and natural. (That’s what makes you look your best - not confidence-dashing filters or trust-eroding AI.)Update your profile photo.
Every time you do, engagement spikes. Use it as a chance to reintroduce yourself and share what’s new in your business.Show up regularly.
Let people see you! Aim to appear in your social posts at least once a week. The more your audience connects your face with your expertise, the more they’ll trust you.
Because here’s the truth:
Visibility isn’t vanity - it’s strategy.
It’s the bridge between the incredible work you do and the people who need it most.
If you’re ready to stop being the best-kept secret in your industry, I’d love to help you create photos that make you feel seen, confident, and ready for what’s next. Find out more about personal branding photography that works here.
