Visual Confidence Through Simplicity and Style
It was a real pleasure to welcome Kristina Tonev back to the studio for a fresh update to her professional portraits. Kristina is an artist and educator based in Suffolk, and she brings a calm, intentional presence into the studio space, ideal for capturing images that feel natural, polished, and true to her character.
The timing of this shoot aligned with the launch of her latest work, a striking art installation created from straw, featured in this year’s Arts Degree Show at the University of Suffolk. Her creative approach informed the tone of the session: refined, considered, and quietly expressive.
Why a Professional Headshot Still Matters
One of the most common questions that comes up before shoots like this is How often should I update my profile photos? A good rule is every 12 to 18 months. It’s not about changing your look drastically, it’s about keeping your image in step with where you are professionally. A current portrait helps clients, collaborators, and peers recognise you and stay visually connected to your journey.
For Kristina, the goal was to update her branding portraits while maintaining continuity. We shot across a couple of neutral backdrops, light grey and warm brown, each giving a different tone to the final images. This made it easy to cover a range of uses: formal headshots for LinkedIn, softer images for Instagram or her website, and mid-shot portraits to support public talks or exhibition press materials.
Simple, Useful Content for Your Brand Launch
Professional portraits aren’t just for corporate jobs or traditional businesses. If you’re launching a product, booking clients, or building a public-facing brand, then having a strong, consistent image can really help build trust. This is especially true on platforms like Instagram, where people often decide whether to follow, buy, or book based on just a few seconds of visual impression.
When planning photography for new businesses, it helps to think about the various platforms where your face and name will show up:
- Profile images (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook)
- Website banners or ‘About’ sections
- Business cards or pop-up displays
- Press releases or media kits
- Launch announcements or online events
One well-planned session can produce all these image types and more, without feeling rushed or overcomplicated.
What Makes for Effective Branding Photography?
Modern branding photography doesn’t need to be overstyled or heavily staged. In fact, the most effective images often come from relaxed, well-lit setups and open collaboration. During Kristina’s shoot, we worked with a simple wardrobe in neutral tones, combined with soft studio lighting that complemented her look without distracting from it.
This approach also lends itself to creating stylish founder headshots that feel warm and approachable. These portraits can be easily adapted across different channels and remain consistent even as your brand evolves.
Testimonial from Kristina
“I wholeheartedly recommend Foyers Photography. Over the last few years, I have worked with Bob on both creative shoots to explore artistic themes and professional headshots. My spouse has also used Foyers’ services outside of the studio; the professionalism and ability to adapt to the individual and location is really outstanding. The kind approach, social inclusivity and the attitude of ‘there is no ugly side’ are always successful in making the person feel comfortable and relaxed, which produces the amazing results that speak for themselves. Thank you.”
How to Prepare for Your Own Branding Photoshoot
If you’re not sure what’s needed for a brand shoot, start with the essentials:
- A clean, classic headshot for professional platforms
- A mid-shot portrait showing your personal style or personality
- A few relaxed images to use on Instagram or blog posts
- Optional props or materials that reflect your work or values
- Backgrounds or clothing changes to create variety without needing a second shoot
This is the foundation of most startup photography packages UK founders tend to look for, sessions that are flexible, affordable, and designed to provide real value at an early stage of growth.
See Kristina’s Work
Kristina’s recent work is being exhibited at the University of Suffolk Arts Degree Show, featuring a sculptural installation made entirely from straw. It’s open to the public with free parking and entry:
🗓 Thursday, 19 June, 6–9 p.m.
📍 Arts Building, IP4 1QJ, Ipswich
🎟 Free parking from 4:30 p.m.
For more about Kristina Tonev:
See more about my professional headshots in Suffolk.
See more about my personal branding photography in Suffolk.