You Don’t Need to Be a Model: Branding Photography for Camera-Shy Entrepreneurs

As a branding photographer for women entrepreneurs in Vermont, I hear it all the time:

“I’m not photogenic.”
“I feel so awkward in front of the camera.”
“I don't know how to pose like an influencer”

Nope. You absolutely do not.

Let’s bust the myth right now:

You don’t need to be a model to have powerful, scroll-stopping branding photos. You just need to be yourself. ✨

At Owl’s Iris Photography, I’ve built my Vermont-based branding photography experience around one goal: making creative women and small business owners feel seen, confident, and real on camera—even if they’re camera-shy!

What Is Branding Photography, Anyway?

Branding photography is all about telling the visual story of your business—through you. It’s more than just a cute headshot. It’s the curation of an authentic mix of portraits, lifestyle images, workspace details, and behind-the-scenes moments that show your audience who you are and what you stand for. We can craft it to suit your business- and I love to think outside the box and get creative!

For service providers, creatives, and women-led brands, it’s often your first chance to make an impression—and you want it to count.

Feeling Nervous? That’s Totally Normal.

Here’s a little secret: I'd say 90% of my clients are not comfortable in front of the camera when we first meet. They’re artists, coaches, herbalists, designers, writers, therapists, bakers—brilliant and passionate- but not professional models. And I get it! It can be so scary and vulnerable to put yourself out there and in front of the lens.

That’s where I come in. My branding photo sessions are specifically designed for folks who feel nervous, unsure, or like they “don’t know what to do with their hands.” I love nothing more than to make my clients feel comfortable, natural, and like themselves.

We'll talk, we'll laugh, we'll move naturally. I'll give you gentle prompts to create movement or we'll incorporate props to help you get out of your head and into the moment. There’s no stiff posing or fake smiles. It’s a creative collaboration, and my job is to make you feel like the best version of yourself—not someone you have to pretend to be.

What My Clients Say (Spoiler: You’ll Relate)

“Barbee is an outstanding photographer that turns a client's vision into a reality. She captured my personality and image so well that my headshots communicated my passion and excitement for starting a business venture.”
— Christina, Rooted Yoga

“"Barbee proved to be a talented and intuitive photographer and a very easy person to work with. I had never worked with a photographer before so I didn't know how to communicate what I was looking for in product photography of my jewelry, and I feared my inability to communicate my needs would lead to being disappointed with the results. But Barbee hit it out of the park. She picked up on all the little details, intuited my aesthetic from materials, props, and past content, and styled the jewelry well without direction. Barbee even made a cute little GIF as a bonus, which we had never talked about. Barbee was a great communicator, super professional, and really chill. She was adamant that she wanted feedback and wanted to do whatever she could to make sure I was happy. I had no feedback, her work was perfect. Work with her!".”
— Christine, Tender Warriors Co.

“We hired Owl's Iris Photography for a women's yoga retreat in Bali and were blown away by the content we received! Barbee is a great communicator, diligent, professional and talented. Highly recommend !”
— Alexandra, Shaki Sanctuary

"Words cannot express my gratitude for Barbee and Owl's Iris Photography. As a small business owner, I needed help elevating my brand to drive growth. Investment in professional photography made me nervous as every dollar counts at my business stage. However, the moment I met Barbee and worked with her for my first photo shoot, those fears melted away. Barbee immediately just got the essence of my business. She captures the joy of my biz, BirdieBlue, and her work is truly magic. Her gorgeous pictures have catapulted my brand to the next level and my sales reflect that. She's helped me have a more polished presence online and cut through the noise with so much competition in the e-commerce space. We have now worked together for four more shoots. Every shoot just gets better and better. It's like Christmas morning when she sends me the final proofs. She is now not only my partner, but my friend. She is an amazing human and can't recommend her and her talent enough. Snag one of her VIP spots before they are all gone. Thank you Barbee for everything you have done for me and BirdieBlue! So So grateful for you!"

-Kate, Birdie Blue

Let’s Reframe Your Camera Nerves

Being in front of the lens can feel vulnerable (it totally is), but it’s also an act of boldness and self-respect. You’re not being self-centered by showing up—you’re being strategic. Because:

People do business with brands they feel connected to.
People trust faces more than logos.
You’re the heartbeat of your brand.

And if you're worried about not looking "professional enough"—just remember that authenticity beats perfection every time. Especially in the values-driven, community-rooted Vermont small business scene. People will but your product or servive because THEY LIKE YOU!! Regardless if you're more expensive than a competitor- if clients like and trust you, they will be your client for the long haul.

What Makes Owl’s Iris Branding Sessions Different

Rooted in Vermont Vibes: I shoot in light-soaked studios, cozy cafes, wildflower meadows, and mountain views—wherever your brand naturally fits. I have so many connections to locations (inside and out) and am constantly looking for locations for my clients.
For Women, By a Woman: I know the pressure women face to “look the part,” and I create space for you to show up on your terms. I've been where you've been and I GET IT.
Guided Confidence: From outfit planning to posing support, I’ve got you! I will check in regularly before and during the shoot to make sure you're feeling good and prepared. You're not doing this alone- you've got me on your side!
Brand Strategy Backing: This isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about creating a cohesive, on-brand visual library you’ll actually use. This is an invaluable service that will help you attract clients increasing your profit!

Five Tips for the Camera-Shy Biz Owner Getting Branding Photos

Wear what makes you feel powerful. If you wouldn’t wear it to meet a dream client, skip it. Comfort = confidence.
Bring meaningful props. Your laptop, tools of your trade, and even your dog—yes, really (and pretty please!).
Plan your shoot like we're telling a story- because we are! We'll break the session into scenes that show different aspects of your business and personality (don't worry, I will help you do this)
Use music, movement, and breath. I’ll cue natural gestures and keep things relaxed. Props are great as they give you something to do
Trust your photographer (hi hello that's me! 👋). I’ve got you the entire time, from lighting to posing to cheering you on. I also shoot tethered to my iPad so you'll be able to see your photos large in real time.

Still Not Sure? Here’s the Simple Truth:

Most people don’t love being in front of a camera.
ALL of my clients tell me, “That was actually so much fun!” And then they go treat themself because THEY SHOWED UP FOR THEMSELVES!!
You don’t have to fake it. You just have to show up. I will help guide you through the rest. And we will have an amazing time!

I promise you’ll walk away with branding images that feel like YOU. Confident. Intentional. Radiant in your own weird and wonderful way.

Let’s Do This—No Modeling Experience Required

If you’re a woman entrepreneur in Vermont and you're ready to stop hiding behind outdated selfies and stock images, it’s time to book a branding photo session with Owl’s Iris Photography.

Whether you're launching, pivoting, or finally ready to own your space online, I’ll help you create branding photos that feel like home.

👉 Click here to inquire about your branding session. Let’s make magic. Vermont-style.