Case study: How Kirsty transformed her brand with personal brand photography
Client: Kirsty Malcolm, Founder of Roll Nine Productions
Kirsty is the dynamic founder of Roll Nine, a boutique production company with bases in London and Stockholm and also works part time as a TV and Livestream Presenter. Having worked as a TV reporter and with global giants like Disney and Mercedes F1, Kirsty is a powerhouse in bespoke video production. Yet, when it came to her own personal brand, she felt something was missing.
“I’ve produced videos for world-class clients, but I’d never truly taken the time to reflect on how I present myself professionally. The headshots I had were old, impersonal, certainly too corporate, and didn’t capture the essence of who I am or the kind of work I’m hoping to do,” she said
The challenges
Kirsty’s challenges echoed those of many busy creative entrepreneurs:
Time constraints: Juggling a thriving business left little time to focus on updating her brand imagery.
Outdated imagery: She felt that her previous headshots were formal and stiff, lacking personality and warmth.
Camera nerves: Lacking confidence in showing her true personality on camera and feeling like she had to be more formal and corporate in previous jobs leading to cookie cutter headshots that previously didn’t have personal flair.
I knew a photo session would be fun, but I wasn’t sure they could be made to feel authentically ‘me.’
The solution: A customised personal brand photography experience
For Kirsty, my approach to personal brand photography offered exactly what she needed – a blend of fun, professionalism, and thoughtful preparation. A relaxed, client-focused process sets the tone for a transformative experience!
Key steps in the process
- Discovery and Planning: The pre-shoot questionnaire and video calls helped Kirsty reflect on her brand’s values, goals, and the image she wanted to convey.“Emma really listened. She gave me the space to think about how I’d like people to feel about me and my company and potentially working to make video content, which can be daunting in itself. So I wanted to be approachable and friendly in the images.”
- A relaxed and fun session: We met in Spitalfields for a relaxed stroll, and I guided Kirsty through a series of locations and poses (my special brand of non-posey poses, of course).“We had coffee and chatted beforehand, which completely put me at ease. I went from apprehensive to laughing and posing in no time!”
- Varied Locations and Styles: We selected locations that added vibrant, diverse backdrops—from lush green parks to urban graffiti walls—capturing both Kirsty’s energetic and professional sides.“In a short walk, we got shots that ranged from serious boss-lady vibes to fun, energetic bursts of personality.”
The results
The final images were more than just headshots – they were a visual story showcasing Kirsty’s multifaceted personality and the different hats she wears in her role as founder and producer.
Measurable impact
Enhanced brand perception: The photos exuded approachability and professionalism, aligning perfectly with Kirsty’s brand values.
Increased confidence: Kirsty felt empowered to present herself authentically online.“Confidence—this is the key element Emma’s photos have given me. I finally have photos that feel like me.”
Improved marketing: Kirsty has already used the photos to promote her business, with overwhelmingly positive feedback.“The reception has been amazing! I feel more professional and confident in everything from social posts to serious client pitches and they feel really unique compared to all the corporate headshots I see out there.”
“Working with Emma felt like a long-overdue pamper day. Her relaxed, fun approach made all the difference. I’ve never felt so comfortable in front of a camera. If you’re nervous about booking a personal brand session, DO IT. Throw out those old-school headshots – you won’t regret it!”.”
– Kirsty Malcolm
Kirsty’s journey demonstrates the transformative power of personal brand photography for creative entrepreneurs. The process created a space where Kirsty could expand her self-expression, helping her to step into a new era of confidence and clarity in her personal and professional brand.
For anyone hesitant about stepping in front of the camera, Kirsty offers this advice:
“Go for it! The experience is like a breath of fresh air—and the confidence boost is invaluable.”
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transforming your brand with personal brand photography
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