Grungy Brand Session by a Milwaukee Headshot Photographer

Cookie cutter is not exactly my vibe as a Milwaukee headshot photographer, so you can imagine my excitement when Allie of Lady Luck Salon reached out to me for an out-of-the-box creative branding session. As soon as I saw words like “cool”, “eclectic”, “inclusive”, and “bad bitch energy”, I knew we were on the same page. So, I did a deep dive into her style & vision for the session, and together we created brand photos as edgy as her salon. 

An Alt Approach to Brand Photography in Milwaukee

Rule #1 of brand photos (not to be confused with traditional headshots) is that the photos should look and feel like you. Otherwise, it’s not a true representation of your brand and puts out the wrong message to the clients you want to attract. Because for creative brands, especially in industries like hair, your clients aren’t just booking a service. They’re booking you. Allie knew she didn’t want a stiff, overly curated branding session. Instead, the goal was to put a spotlight on her style & personality in spaces she loves instead of a generic backdrop.

Lady Luck Session with a Milwaukee Headshot Photographer

Lady Luck Salon isn’t just where Allie works, it is her brand. Located inside a repurposed manufacturing building in Milwaukee, the space has that perfect mix of history and personality. Exposed brick, original hardwood floors, big windows, plants, tattoo art, and a custom neon sign all come together to create something that feels equal parts creative studio and safe haven.

It’s the kind of place where you instantly know what you’re walking into. And that matters because Allie is intentional about who she’s calling in. She wants clients who feel like her people: alt, expressive, & maybe a little edgy. Clients seeking shags, pixies, vivid color, or a soft lavender gloss over lived-in balayage will feel right at home in Allie’s chair.  Her space is where clients feel seen, heard, and accepted which is why we spent half the session photographing in it.

Burnhearts Milwaukee

As a brand photographer, I encourage my clients to choose locations you love, know, and feel comfortable. Allie wanted to show some of her “off work” vibe during our session, and starting at her local hangout spot (Burnhearts) was perfect for that.  

Starting a brand session in a space like this does two things: it immediately relaxes you, which is especially helpful if you’re nervous in front of a camera. Second, it gives your clients a peek behind the curtain, so to speak, at who you are. Allie’s brand isn’t just what she does behind the chair, it’s who she is outside of work. So, we leaned into her love of music, late nights, and the Bay View energy she described as moody, eclectic, and a little “I don’t give a shit.” This approach is where authenticity shines through with ease.

Planning Brand Photography in Milwaukee

If there’s one thing this session proves, it’s that the best brand photos don’t come from trying to look like everyone else. They come from leaning into who you already are. If you’re planning your own brand session in Milwaukee, here are a few tips to consider:

Choose spaces that already feel like you

I touched on this already, but it’s key to a gallery that doesn’t feel forced & phony. Your home base, your favorite bar, or your studio are places that naturally bring out your personality and make you more comfortable on camera.

Show more than one side of your brand

Allie’s gallery moves between her personal vibe and her professional space. This gives her way more variety for her website and social content, along with a fuller picture of who she is.

Let your ideal client see themselves in your work

Allie isn’t trying to appeal to everyone. She wants the alt, creative, expressive clients and these photos make that crystal clear. You have to present yourself in a way that aligns with your audience.

Don’t force confidence. Build it naturally

You don’t have to feel 100% comfortable walking into a shoot. The right environment, pacing, and approach will get you there. (And if you enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, your favorite drink beforehand can help too.)

At the end of the day, brand photography isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about creating images that make someone think: “Wait… she’s exactly who I’ve been looking for.”

Wisconsin Photographer for Creative Brands

Hey, I’m Gabby, a Wisconsin photographer here to hype you up while we capture your brand in the most authentic way possible. Are we a match? All the details can be found on my curated session page and if you’re ready to make branding magic, let’s dive in!