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A side-by-side comparison of a dull, flat brand photo next to an expressive, vibrant Elevated Realism™ image

10/20/25

Why Most Photoshoots Fall Flat (And How to Avoid It)

Most First-Time Brand Shoots Miss the Mark — Here’s Why

Personal brand photography client mid-laugh in a vibrant environment, radiating confidence and presence

If you’re preparing for your first brand photoshoot, you’re likely focused on the obvious: outfits, lighting, maybe even the perfect smile. But what actually makes a photoshoot land is much deeper — and most people don’t know what to look for.

And unfortunately, that’s why most first-time photoshoots fall flat.

You might get a technically fine image — but you won’t feel seen. You won’t look like your future self. You’ll get a handful of decent portraits… and wonder why none of them feel like you.

So let’s break it down: why do so many brand photoshoots miss the mark, and how can you make sure yours actually reflects the power of who you are becoming?

1. They Hired the Wrong Photographer

The most common mistake people make is choosing a photographer based on price, availability, or Instagram followers — not on consistent visual style or storytelling ability.

If the photographer doesn’t have a portfolio that reflects exactly the style you want, you’re gambling with your brand.

“The client needs to be able to see themselves in that photographer’s images.”

Photographers who can’t direct, can’t see light, or can’t pull out authentic expression will leave you with generic portraits that don’t do your brand justice.

Avoid it by: choosing a photographer whose work moves you emotionally — and who has a consistent body of work across a variety of clients.

2. The Client Tries to Control the Shoot

This one might sting: sometimes shoots fall flat because the client over-controls it.

We’ve all seen it — the client brings outfits that haven’t been approved, picks a dark or cramped location, or insists on doing things their way without consulting the photographer.

And then… the images don’t land.

“I’ve had shoots where the client picked the location and wardrobe without my input — and the results just couldn’t reach their full potential.”

Avoid it by: trusting the process. Collaborate with your photographer early and often. Share your vision, but be open to guidance from someone who knows how to make it photogenic.

3. They Show Up Tired or Disconnected

Client relaxing with tea and a journal before shoot day, practicing pre-shoot rituals to prepare energy

Photoshoot day is a performance — not in a fake way, but in an energetic way.

If you roll in the morning after a conference, haven’t slept, or don’t feel like being seen… it shows.

“I’ve had clients who were so wiped out they couldn’t bring their full energy — and the photos just didn’t sing.”

Avoid it by: treating shoot day like a sacred container. Get rest, hydrate, avoid alcohol, and set your energy like you’re stepping into your next evolution. Because you are.

4. The Photographer Doesn’t Know How to Direct

Most photographers don’t know what to do with your hands — let alone how to pull out authentic, magnetic expression.

They lean on generic poses, rely on long lenses with blurry backgrounds, and deliver shots that feel emotionally flat.

“A flat photo shoot is when you get a typical, safe image… but it doesn’t show your range, your edge, or your energy.”

Avoid it by: working with someone who directs energy, not just poses. Great brand photography isn’t about smiling at the camera. It’s about storytelling through your body, your eyes, your vibe.

5. No Creative Direction

Screenshot of a creative direction deck with brand colors, typefaces, and moodboard imagery laid out cohesively

This is the silent killer.

Most shoots fail before they begin — because there was no creative direction.

No moodboard. No story. No alignment on what we’re actually trying to express.

“A lot of photographers just show up with a camera. They don’t show up with a vision.

Creative direction brings all the pieces together:

  • Your brand message
  • Your aesthetic vibe
  • Locations that match your energy
  • Wardrobe that aligns with your evolution
  • Props and story moments that give your images dimension

Avoid it by: ensuring your shoot has pre-production. That means an intake form, strategy call, concept deck, and wardrobe/location review.

What Clients Don’t Realize Until They Work With Me

When clients work with me, they often say:

  • “This actually feels like me.”
  • “I didn’t realize I could look this alive on camera.”
  • “This was actually fun. I usually hate photoshoots.”

Because it’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling present. And when that presence is captured on camera, the images are undeniable.

“Elevated Realism™ uses props, locations, wardrobe, and expression to tell a full story. It’s not just a portrait. It’s a portal.”

If It’s Your First Shoot — Start With This

  • Choose a photographer with a consistent portfolio that feels like where you’re headed
  • Collaborate early: Don’t assume you know what works on camera — let your photographer guide you
  • Bring your energy: Clear your schedule the day before. Set your intention. Show up ready to be seen
  • Trust the process: This is about becoming. Not performing.

Want a Photoshoot That Feels Like a Full-Body Yes?

A client mid-movement, laughing and embodied during an Elevated Realism™ photoshoot

If you want:

  • Creative direction that brings your essence to life
  • Direction that makes you feel confident and free
  • Photography that actually tells your story visually…

Then you’re ready for Elevated Realism™.

👉 Apply to Book Your Elevated Realism™ Shoot

Your brand deserves more than a portrait.
It deserves to be seen.

LET'S CONSPIRE & CREATE

CULTIVATING YOUR VISUAL UNIQUENESS AND STREAMLINING YOUR BRAND'S EVOLUTION

Most First-Time Brand Shoots Miss the Mark — Here’s Why

Personal brand photography client mid-laugh in a vibrant environment, radiating confidence and presence

If you’re preparing for your first brand photoshoot, you’re likely focused on the obvious: outfits, lighting, maybe even the perfect smile. But what actually makes a photoshoot land is much deeper — and most people don’t know what to look for.

And unfortunately, that’s why most first-time photoshoots fall flat.

You might get a technically fine image — but you won’t feel seen. You won’t look like your future self. You’ll get a handful of decent portraits… and wonder why none of them feel like you.

So let’s break it down: why do so many brand photoshoots miss the mark, and how can you make sure yours actually reflects the power of who you are becoming?

1. They Hired the Wrong Photographer

The most common mistake people make is choosing a photographer based on price, availability, or Instagram followers — not on consistent visual style or storytelling ability.

If the photographer doesn’t have a portfolio that reflects exactly the style you want, you’re gambling with your brand.

“The client needs to be able to see themselves in that photographer’s images.”

Photographers who can’t direct, can’t see light, or can’t pull out authentic expression will leave you with generic portraits that don’t do your brand justice.

Avoid it by: choosing a photographer whose work moves you emotionally — and who has a consistent body of work across a variety of clients.

2. The Client Tries to Control the Shoot

This one might sting: sometimes shoots fall flat because the client over-controls it.

We’ve all seen it — the client brings outfits that haven’t been approved, picks a dark or cramped location, or insists on doing things their way without consulting the photographer.

And then… the images don’t land.

“I’ve had shoots where the client picked the location and wardrobe without my input — and the results just couldn’t reach their full potential.”

Avoid it by: trusting the process. Collaborate with your photographer early and often. Share your vision, but be open to guidance from someone who knows how to make it photogenic.

3. They Show Up Tired or Disconnected

Client relaxing with tea and a journal before shoot day, practicing pre-shoot rituals to prepare energy

Photoshoot day is a performance — not in a fake way, but in an energetic way.

If you roll in the morning after a conference, haven’t slept, or don’t feel like being seen… it shows.

“I’ve had clients who were so wiped out they couldn’t bring their full energy — and the photos just didn’t sing.”

Avoid it by: treating shoot day like a sacred container. Get rest, hydrate, avoid alcohol, and set your energy like you’re stepping into your next evolution. Because you are.

4. The Photographer Doesn’t Know How to Direct

Most photographers don’t know what to do with your hands — let alone how to pull out authentic, magnetic expression.

They lean on generic poses, rely on long lenses with blurry backgrounds, and deliver shots that feel emotionally flat.

“A flat photo shoot is when you get a typical, safe image… but it doesn’t show your range, your edge, or your energy.”

Avoid it by: working with someone who directs energy, not just poses. Great brand photography isn’t about smiling at the camera. It’s about storytelling through your body, your eyes, your vibe.

5. No Creative Direction

Screenshot of a creative direction deck with brand colors, typefaces, and moodboard imagery laid out cohesively

This is the silent killer.

Most shoots fail before they begin — because there was no creative direction.

No moodboard. No story. No alignment on what we’re actually trying to express.

“A lot of photographers just show up with a camera. They don’t show up with a vision.

Creative direction brings all the pieces together:

  • Your brand message
  • Your aesthetic vibe
  • Locations that match your energy
  • Wardrobe that aligns with your evolution
  • Props and story moments that give your images dimension

Avoid it by: ensuring your shoot has pre-production. That means an intake form, strategy call, concept deck, and wardrobe/location review.

What Clients Don’t Realize Until They Work With Me

When clients work with me, they often say:

  • “This actually feels like me.”
  • “I didn’t realize I could look this alive on camera.”
  • “This was actually fun. I usually hate photoshoots.”

Because it’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling present. And when that presence is captured on camera, the images are undeniable.

“Elevated Realism™ uses props, locations, wardrobe, and expression to tell a full story. It’s not just a portrait. It’s a portal.”

If It’s Your First Shoot — Start With This

  • Choose a photographer with a consistent portfolio that feels like where you’re headed
  • Collaborate early: Don’t assume you know what works on camera — let your photographer guide you
  • Bring your energy: Clear your schedule the day before. Set your intention. Show up ready to be seen
  • Trust the process: This is about becoming. Not performing.

Want a Photoshoot That Feels Like a Full-Body Yes?

A client mid-movement, laughing and embodied during an Elevated Realism™ photoshoot

If you want:

  • Creative direction that brings your essence to life
  • Direction that makes you feel confident and free
  • Photography that actually tells your story visually…

Then you’re ready for Elevated Realism™.

👉 Apply to Book Your Elevated Realism™ Shoot

Your brand deserves more than a portrait.
It deserves to be seen.

A side-by-side comparison of a dull, flat brand photo next to an expressive, vibrant Elevated Realism™ image

10/20/25

Why Most Photoshoots Fall Flat (And How to Avoid It)

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Most First-Time Brand Shoots Miss the Mark — Here’s Why

Personal brand photography client mid-laugh in a vibrant environment, radiating confidence and presence

If you’re preparing for your first brand photoshoot, you’re likely focused on the obvious: outfits, lighting, maybe even the perfect smile. But what actually makes a photoshoot land is much deeper — and most people don’t know what to look for.

And unfortunately, that’s why most first-time photoshoots fall flat.

You might get a technically fine image — but you won’t feel seen. You won’t look like your future self. You’ll get a handful of decent portraits… and wonder why none of them feel like you.

So let’s break it down: why do so many brand photoshoots miss the mark, and how can you make sure yours actually reflects the power of who you are becoming?

1. They Hired the Wrong Photographer

The most common mistake people make is choosing a photographer based on price, availability, or Instagram followers — not on consistent visual style or storytelling ability.

If the photographer doesn’t have a portfolio that reflects exactly the style you want, you’re gambling with your brand.

“The client needs to be able to see themselves in that photographer’s images.”

Photographers who can’t direct, can’t see light, or can’t pull out authentic expression will leave you with generic portraits that don’t do your brand justice.

Avoid it by: choosing a photographer whose work moves you emotionally — and who has a consistent body of work across a variety of clients.

2. The Client Tries to Control the Shoot

This one might sting: sometimes shoots fall flat because the client over-controls it.

We’ve all seen it — the client brings outfits that haven’t been approved, picks a dark or cramped location, or insists on doing things their way without consulting the photographer.

And then… the images don’t land.

“I’ve had shoots where the client picked the location and wardrobe without my input — and the results just couldn’t reach their full potential.”

Avoid it by: trusting the process. Collaborate with your photographer early and often. Share your vision, but be open to guidance from someone who knows how to make it photogenic.

3. They Show Up Tired or Disconnected

Client relaxing with tea and a journal before shoot day, practicing pre-shoot rituals to prepare energy

Photoshoot day is a performance — not in a fake way, but in an energetic way.

If you roll in the morning after a conference, haven’t slept, or don’t feel like being seen… it shows.

“I’ve had clients who were so wiped out they couldn’t bring their full energy — and the photos just didn’t sing.”

Avoid it by: treating shoot day like a sacred container. Get rest, hydrate, avoid alcohol, and set your energy like you’re stepping into your next evolution. Because you are.

4. The Photographer Doesn’t Know How to Direct

Most photographers don’t know what to do with your hands — let alone how to pull out authentic, magnetic expression.

They lean on generic poses, rely on long lenses with blurry backgrounds, and deliver shots that feel emotionally flat.

“A flat photo shoot is when you get a typical, safe image… but it doesn’t show your range, your edge, or your energy.”

Avoid it by: working with someone who directs energy, not just poses. Great brand photography isn’t about smiling at the camera. It’s about storytelling through your body, your eyes, your vibe.

5. No Creative Direction

Screenshot of a creative direction deck with brand colors, typefaces, and moodboard imagery laid out cohesively

This is the silent killer.

Most shoots fail before they begin — because there was no creative direction.

No moodboard. No story. No alignment on what we’re actually trying to express.

“A lot of photographers just show up with a camera. They don’t show up with a vision.

Creative direction brings all the pieces together:

  • Your brand message
  • Your aesthetic vibe
  • Locations that match your energy
  • Wardrobe that aligns with your evolution
  • Props and story moments that give your images dimension

Avoid it by: ensuring your shoot has pre-production. That means an intake form, strategy call, concept deck, and wardrobe/location review.

What Clients Don’t Realize Until They Work With Me

When clients work with me, they often say:

  • “This actually feels like me.”
  • “I didn’t realize I could look this alive on camera.”
  • “This was actually fun. I usually hate photoshoots.”

Because it’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling present. And when that presence is captured on camera, the images are undeniable.

“Elevated Realism™ uses props, locations, wardrobe, and expression to tell a full story. It’s not just a portrait. It’s a portal.”

If It’s Your First Shoot — Start With This

  • Choose a photographer with a consistent portfolio that feels like where you’re headed
  • Collaborate early: Don’t assume you know what works on camera — let your photographer guide you
  • Bring your energy: Clear your schedule the day before. Set your intention. Show up ready to be seen
  • Trust the process: This is about becoming. Not performing.

Want a Photoshoot That Feels Like a Full-Body Yes?

A client mid-movement, laughing and embodied during an Elevated Realism™ photoshoot

If you want:

  • Creative direction that brings your essence to life
  • Direction that makes you feel confident and free
  • Photography that actually tells your story visually…

Then you’re ready for Elevated Realism™.

👉 Apply to Book Your Elevated Realism™ Shoot

Your brand deserves more than a portrait.
It deserves to be seen.

A side-by-side comparison of a dull, flat brand photo next to an expressive, vibrant Elevated Realism™ image

10/20/25

Why Most Photoshoots Fall Flat (And How to Avoid It)

infuse your vision with a fresh breath of  creativity and vitality

BOOK A BRAND PHOTOSHOOT

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infuse your vision with a fresh breath of  creativity and vitality

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CULTIVATING YOUR VISUAL UNIQUENESS AND STREAMLINING YOUR BRAND'S EVOLUTION

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A side-by-side comparison of a dull, flat brand photo next to an expressive, vibrant Elevated Realism™ image

Most First-Time Brand Shoots Miss the Mark — Here’s Why If you’re preparing for your first brand photoshoot, you’re likely focused on the obvious: outfits, lighting, maybe even the perfect smile. But what actually makes a photoshoot land is much deeper — and most people don’t know what to look for. And unfortunately, that’s why most first-time […]

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If you’re searching for the best personal brand photographer in New York, one name rises to the top: Nick Onken. Blending editorial sophistication with emotional storytelling, Nick’s work goes far beyond headshots. His Elevated Realism™ approach captures your highest self — magnetic, polished, and unmistakably you. 📍 A Photographer Who Knows NYC Intimately Nick spent 15 […]

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One of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make is building their website, offers, or marketing before they’ve ever clarified their brand identity. They hire web designers before they’ve defined their vibe. They write sales pages without knowing the feeling their brand is meant to transmit. But everything — your website, your photos, your content, your brand world — should stem […]

Nicky Clinch standing in nature during her brand shoot, styled in flowing earth tones and captured in soft light

For most people, a photoshoot is about looking good. For Nicky Clinch, it became a mirror for transformation. Nicky is a master maturation coach, author of Surrender, and co-leader of the Emanate Mastermind. When she came to me, her brand was successful—multiple seven figures, sold-out programs, a global community—but something wasn’t resonating. She had reached a plateau. […]

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Los Angeles is packed with creatives. But when it comes to personal brand photography, Nick Onken stands in a category of his own. He’s not just snapping pretty pictures. He’s crafting transformation. With a focus on visual storytelling and strategic brand elevation, Nick’s shoots go far beyond portraits. Every session is a creative collaboration—designed to […]

Lewis Howes standing confidently in a European location during his personal brand shoot with Nick Onken

Introduction Lewis Howes, host of The School of Greatness and bestselling author, was ready to elevate his personal brand with a visual identity that matched his next chapter of leadership. He had already built a massive platform. But he was stepping into a deeper, more embodied version of his brand—one that integrated emotional intelligence with […]

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Leadership isn’t just something you declare — it’s something people feel the moment they see you. And in a world where your first impression often happens online, your photos need to do more than look good. They need to position you as a leader. A personal brand shoot isn’t about winging it with cute outfits […]

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Let’s cut to it: The cost of a personal brand photoshoot depends on one thing—the level of transformation you want to create. You can hire someone to take nice portraits. Or you can co-create an identity-elevating experience that reshapes how the world sees you. So… How Much Does It Cost? At the top of the […]

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If you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or speaker looking to stand out online, then you know photography is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. But hiring the right personal brand photographer can feel overwhelming. With so many options, styles, and price points, how do you find the perfect fit for your vision? Let’s break it down […]

Entrepreneur preparing emotionally for a personal brand photoshoot with Nick Onken

Getting in front of a camera isn’t just about appearance—it’s about energy, mindset, and emotion. When you’re being photographed, especially for something as intimate and revealing as a personal brand shoot, the camera becomes a mirror. A mirror of confidence—or insecurity. Of ease—or resistance. Over the years, I’ve learned that the emotional preparation is just […]

Nick Onken directing a subject during a stylish personal brand shoot in an iconic Austin setting

If you’re building a brand in Austin, you already know—this city has a vibe. Creative. Wild. Soulful. Free. But when it comes to personal brand photography, not all photographers can capture that essence. If you want photos that go beyond headshots and into transformation… Nick Onken is the name to know. Austin Roots. Global Vision. […]

Nick Onken directing a personal brand photo shoot using music and movement to evoke confidence

A great photo is more than just perfect lighting and good composition. It’s about capturing your subject’s truest essence—that confident, authentic, magnetic self that already exists inside them. My job as a photographer is to bring that forward. Over the years, I’ve built a toolkit of both physical and psychological tools that help guide clients […]

About the Blogger

I was born in a low middle class conservative religious family in the suburbs of Seattle. Art was and always has been my passion, and more than that a way of life. Starting as a graphic designer, I taught myself photography, built a commercial/editorial business shooting for the worlds biggest brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, Adidas and more. I've also had the opportunity to photograph the world's biggest celebrities like Justin Bieber, Usher, Jessica Alba and more. I've curated a lifestyle around creativity and have learned a lot along the way which I get to share here. 

I was born in a low middle class conservative religious family in the suburbs of Seattle. Art was and always has been my passion, and more than that a way of life. Starting as a graphic designer, I taught myself photography, built a commercial/editorial business shooting for the worlds biggest brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, Adidas and more. I've also had the opportunity to photograph the world's biggest celebrities like Justin Bieber, Usher, Jessica Alba and more. I've curated a lifestyle around creativity and have learned a lot along the way which I get to share here. 

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