Orange County Brand Photographer

ARE YOUR PHOTOS CREATING OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU?

Exceptional Brand Photography That Tells Your Story with Style and Purpose

Get expert coaching & direction to elevate your business

A calculator with numbers on it is shown on a white background.

Custom Guided Experience

A clipboard with a magnifying glass on it.

Website Ready Images

A hand is holding a red heart on a white background.

Fast Delivery

Without exceptional photos your business will not stand out.

It's going to cost you.

Does your website lack:

  • Personality
  • Portraits that align with your mission statement
  • Current photos
  • High quality photos

Are you still using one or more of the following:


  • Stock photos
  • Photos that are more than a year old
  • Low quality images
  • Photos that lack personality
  • Portraits of people no longer at the company

If you answered yes to any of the above it's time to refresh your brand and get authentic, high-impact visuals designed to connect with your ideal client, build trust, and bring your brand to life.

Christopher Todd and Orange County Photographer in a blue shirt is holding a camera and smiling.

Meet Christopher Todd: Your Orange County  Brand Photographer

Hi, I’m Christopher Todd! I launched Christopher Todd Studios back in 2000, but my love for photography started long before that.

I specialize in creating portraits that stand out. With expert lighting, composition, and background selection, I craft images that highlight what matters most, your brand.

Located in Orange County, I’ve helped professionals across industries elevate their image with brand photos that get results. With my unique techniques, and expert guidance and coaching, I’ll ensure you look confident, approachable, and ready to make your mark.

Let’s create stand out images that helps you get noticed!

Our OC Studio Location

Photo studio in Orange County with lighting gear, backgrounds and photographic equipment for Headshot or portrait photography
A woman is standing in front of a mural on a wall for a branding photo

Personal Branding Portraits

Personal branding portraits go beyond the standard headshot—they’re crafted to reflect your personality, values, and the heart of your brand. Whether you're a creative, entrepreneur, or professional, these images help you show up authentically and confidently across your website, social media, and marketing. Think of them as your visual first impression—polished, intentional, and unmistakably you. Whether you love getting your photo taken or if you are like most people and find it uncomfortable I will put you at ease during our time together. Walk away feeling great and confident with your new brand portraits.

A man in a suit and tie is standing in front of a building.

Corporate Branding Portraits

Corporate photos that reflect your company's brand. These portraits are polished, cohesive images that represent your team, leadership, and company culture. Ideal for websites, LinkedIn profiles, press kits, and marketing materials. The goal of these portraits will help establish trust, professionalism, and a unified brand presence to help connect with your ideal clients.

A branding photo session can include individual portraits, group shots, team lifestyle images, and behind-the-scenes moments in your office environment. Whether you're updating your website, creating a pitch deck, or refreshing LinkedIn profiles, these images help your company look polished, approachable, and trustworthy.

Getting Started Is Easy As...

A green icon with a black outline on a white background.

Schedule Call

Book your free call today. Use the link below to schedule a quick call so that I can get to know your business and branding goals.

A magnifying glass with a person inside of it.

Guided Photo Session

Relax! On the day of the shoot I will be your creative art director/photographer. I will coach you throughout our time together so you feel and look your best, including posing, facial expression, and expert guidance.

A close up of a tablet with a pink screen on a white background.

Fast Delivery

I will typically have your images ready within 3-5 business days.  So you can pick your favorites and have your online presence updated quickly.

Orange County Bar Partner  🙌

Making photography easy for the Orange County Bar Association

Christina Pendon | Art Director OCBA


 Studio Brand Session
  • POPULAR FOR 1-2 Individuals/Partners
  • Unlimited Time
  • Unlimited Outfits
  • Planning call
  • Coaching for posing & expression
  • Image gallery online
  • Full usage rights of the purchased photos
  • Wardrobe & style advice
  • 2-3 solid color backdrop choices
Session Fee only
DIGITAL PHOTOS SOLD SEPARATELY 

$249


On Location Brand Session
  • POPULAR FOR INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS 
  • Unlimited time
  • (1) Location - We Come To You
  • Unlimited outfits
  • Planning call
  • Coaching for posing & expression
  • Image gallery online
  • Wardrobe & style advice 
  • Full usage rights of the purchased photos
Session Fee only
DIGITAL PHOTOS SOLD SEPARATELY 

$695

Listen To Allison's Results 🙌

"Our photos came out phenomenal. The best headshots we have ever had!"

FAQs

Fitness industry branding photo

What Is Brand Photography?

Brand photography is a curated collection of images that visually represent your business, personality, and values. It’s more than a headshot—it’s the visual language of your brand. The types of portraits that a branding session can include are lifestyle portraits, team photos, product photos, behind-the-scenes moments, interior and product photos, and headshots. These photos help your audience see the real person behind the brand, creating trust and recognition across all platforms.

Whether you're a solopreneur, creative, coach, or team leader, brand photography helps you show up consistently and professionally, online and beyond.

Best Ways To Use Professional Branding Photos

  • Website & Landing Pages
    Use professional images on your homepage, about page, and service pages.
  • Social Media Profiles & Content
    Profile pictures, cover photos, post visuals, reels, and stories on your favorite platform.
  • Email Marketing
    Add your photos to newsletters, welcome sequences, and email signatures.
  • LinkedIn & Professional Networks
    A strong personal or corporate headshot boosts credibility and makes you stand out in your industry.
  • Marketing Materials & Print Collateral
    Use images in brochures, flyers, business cards, and pitch decks.
  • Press Features & Media Kits
    When the media comes calling, you'll be ready with high-quality images that make your brand look polished and professional.
  • Speaking Engagements & Podcasts
    Send your photo and bio to event hosts or podcast producers. Professional visuals help you get booked and recognized.
  • Online Courses & Membership Platforms
    Show up with confidence as the face of your content.
  • Lead Magnets & Freebies
    Add a face to your value—using branded imagery in PDFs, workbooks, or downloads increases trust and conversion.
  • Ad Campaigns & Paid Promotions
    Authentic, high-quality images perform better in ads.
  • Who needs branding portraits?

    If you're the face of your brand, this is for you. Brand photography supports many professionals who want to present themselves confidently and clearly.


    • Entrepreneurs and small business owners
    • Coaches, consultants, and speakers
    • Creatives, designers, and content creators
    • Authors and personal brands
    • Corporate teams with a fresh identity or rebrand
  • How much does a professional branding photographer cost?

    Professional brand photography can vary in cost. Keep in mind a session fee is separate from the cost of retouching photos and buying individual digital images. We offer custom quotes starting at $249. 

  • What are the different types of branding portraits?

    Brand photography is all about variety, intention, and personality. Every image is designed to reflect who you are and what you do in a way that feels real and on-brand. Here are the types of photos typically included in a brand session:


    🧑‍💼 Professional Headshots

    Clean, confident portraits that represent you professionally—perfect for LinkedIn, press features, and your About page.


    📸 Lifestyle Portraits

    You in action—whether it's working at your desk, meeting with clients, or doing what you love in your natural element.


    🎯 Behind-the-Scenes Shots

    Candid, authentic moments that show your process, personality, and the human side of your brand.


    🛠️ Detail & Product Shots

    Flat lays, tools of your trade, branded items, or products in use—these help build visual variety and reinforce your identity.


    🌍 Environmental Portraits

    You in a space that reflects your brand—a studio, café, co-working space, or outdoors.


    👥 Team Photos (If Applicable)

    Group shots, team dynamics, or brand culture imagery that brings a collaborative brand to life.


    📲 Social Media Content

    Images created specifically for your platforms—designed to keep your feed cohesive and scroll-stopping.


    All images are customized to align with your brand colors, vibe, and strategy—so your visuals tell a story that feels like you.

  • How should I prepare for a branding photo session?

    So, to prepare for your in-person session begin with why you need professional portraits. Think about your industry when deciding on what to wear and when deciding on your background option.  After we set a date and location for your session, you must decide on what outfits you want to wear. If you are having a hard time choosing, bring your favorite outfits in and I will help you decide on the best looks. Stay well hydrated and get plenty of rest the night before. Make sure your clothes are well-pressed and wrinkle-free.

  • What’s the difference between a studio session and an environmental session?

    Studio photography is taken indoors in a controlled environment. This means I have full control of the lighting and there are no outdoor elements to get in the way like wind, bright sun, rain, etc. 

    An environmental session is taken at a specific location, usually outdoors in a park, nature setting, downtown, or outside your office building often using natural light. When I come to you, I still have control of the lightning and do not depend solely on natural light. I bring my mobile studio to you. We discuss your headshot background and the pros and cons of a busy background and a simple white background. Another option for  is at your office. This is very popular for businesses with many employees.

  • What if I'm not photogenic or hate getting my photo taken? Can you make me look good?

    I hear this often from clients. The answer is yes I can make you look good in your photo. I believe when you are guided and coached properly throughout your session the photos come out great. We want your photo session to be stress-free and relaxing. I want you to get the perfect photos. That is why we offer business portrait tips, including the best backdrop option, posing tips such as body language, and whether you should have a natural smile, a slight smile, or a genuine smile. 

  • How do I pose for branding portraits?

    We are experts in facial expression and posing. Think of your branding photo session as a guided experience. Arms arms-crossed headshot can be good for some industries if done correctly. Along with a neutral expression. However, you should look friendly, confident, and approachable. Therefore, I recommend a genuine smile and friendly body language. 

  • How many outfit changes are allowed?

    Depending on which package you choose. 2-3 outfits are usually sufficient. Be sure your outfits are pressed and ironed before your session. 

  • How long does it take to receive my photos?

    I understand how important it is to get your photos back in a timely manner. Our turnaround time is 1-3 business days. This allows us time to edit or decide which images are best, and color correct the photos you purchase. I do offer a rush 24-hour delivery for an additional fee.

  • Can I see photos during our session?

    Absolutely. I like to show you what I am taking usually at the start of the session. This helps you see and feel confident in what we are creating.

  • Will you retouch images from our session?

     I do not retouch every photo. However, I do retouch photos you purchase.

  • Will my retouched photos look fake?

    Absolutely not. The goal of retouching is to enhance while looking realistic. Here is a my retouching philosophy in regards to each part of your face.


    Eyes


    Look best when you don't go overboard with the retouch.


    Make your eyes slightly larger. Sounds weird, looks fantastic. Requires a light touch.


    Lighten the whites of the eyes about 40% and remove any redness.


    Darken the edge of the eyelid to make the iris pop. We call it digital eyeliner.


    Brighten the iris about 15-20% will look amazing. More aggressive brightening will result in a "Children Of the Corn" look.


    Eyelashes can be thickened or duplicated for special close-ups.


    Skin


    I like to soften skin just enough to have you not think about it. The key is to still see some texture or pores of the skin.


    Erase bags or dark circles under your eyes.

    smile lines.

    Uneven, blotches, sun discolorations will be removed or evened out to match skin tone.


    Tanning, whitening, or skin tone adjustment. Typically used for people with red or flushed skin.


    Blemish removal and makeup blending.


    Hair


    Remove any fly-aways.

    Fix any bare spots.

    Highlight, darken, or add tint and shine.


    Body


    Adjust body contours. We call it a digital diet.

    Reduce neck, under the chin, or face width.

    Slim arms, legs, or stomach.

    Smooth out any lumpiness in the body or cloths.

    Double chins removed.


    Clothing


    De-wrinkle your outfit.

    Remove lint.

  • Do you offer hair and makeup services?

    Yes, and I highly recommend it. When you look and feel good your portraits directly reflect this. I can arrange for a makeup artist and hairstylist to come to the studio at an additional cost, or you can have this arranged with your favorite stylist.



  • Do you have a portrait studio?

    Yes I have a portrait studio set up for individuals looking for professional images.  However, 95% of our clients want a more natural look or prefer we come to them. That said I have pre-arranged blocks of studio time for my clients so if you would like to be photographed in a studio I can easily arrange it.



  • How do you deliver my photos?

    Photos are sold as digital images and can be viewed and delivered through our private online gallery. After you select your favorite images they are delivered digitally via download. 



  • Do you only photograph branding portraits??

    No, Christopher Todd Studios is a full-service photography studio. I offer family portraits, engagement sessions, and special event coverage. Including, weddings, corporate, and private events. I also specialize in headshot photography.

Still have a question?

Just let us know 👇

Behind the scenes of a headshot photo session

High quality brand portraits are an important component to keeping your online and marketing strategies present and up to date. This is the best way to reflect your brand. Your business profile picture on social media should always show the present you. Professional brand photography helps to set you apart, telling your story in a way that words alone can't.

✅ Builds trust and credibility
✅ Creates a cohesive, professional look across your website and social media
✅ Increases engagement and connection with your audience
✅ Saves you time by giving you a library of ready-to-use, on-brand content

It’s not just about pretty pictures—it’s about strategic visuals that work for your business.

Why Is Brand Photography So Important?

An older woman is sitting at a table.

What Are Brand Photos Used For?

Popular uses include:

  • Websites
  • Marketing materials
  • Author's book jacket
  • Facebook profile photo
  • Instagram profile
  • Twitter profile
  • Professional Associations
  • Media events
  • Magazine Covers
  • Email signature
  • Social Media Content
A woman is standing on a sidewalk in front of a building.

Lifestyle Portraits

Branding lifestyle portraits are professional images that show you in action.  Whether it's working at your desk, meeting with clients, or doing what you love in your natural element. A lifestyle portrait session uses the natural environment you work in or live near for your background. These photos are interesting and eye catching. 

A woman in a yellow jacket is standing in front of a gray background.

Corporate Headshots

Corporate headshots go beyond a simple portrait—they reflect leadership, intelligence, and approachability. A strong executive headshot sets the tone for your company, reinforcing trust and credibility.

With relevant images boosting engagement by 94%, a professional headshot is a smart investment. We offer executive headshots in our Orange County studio, at your office, or on location to align with your brand’s mission. We also capture teams and leadership groups in conference rooms or outdoor settings for a cohesive company image.

A group of attorneys are sitting around a conference table.

Attorney Branding Portraits

Images can make or break your potential client's first impression of your law firm. Imagery that makes you look honest and approachable will attract future clients who are searching for an attorney.

The best attorney portraits should always make you seem approachable rather than angry or tough.

Attorney Portraits should portray an expert in your field of law. Expert status is traditionally done with a background of law books or the Orange County courthouse in the background. We recommend a modern approach to avoid being confused with all your competitors creating similar headshots.

Most attorney websites are visually crowded and aesthetically unappealing. Your headshot is your opportunity to stand out from the other law firms in Orange County.

Every legal dispute is a potential marketing story that will not be read unless you pair it with incredible photography.


A man in a suit is standing in front of a house with his hands in his pockets.

Realtor Branding Photos

Likability is everything for realtors, and there are ways to ensure you have a photo that reflects that.

Creating a memorable branding photo can be done in many ways. My favorite is the use of bold colors. Many realtor's opt for photoshoots on location. Yes, a beautiful property will give context to your photo. Either strategy can yield a great picture that is memorable.

Your avatar is your flag in the sand people will see first. Make a better image and reap the business rewards.

Hire a professional photographer instead of a friend with a nice camera. Great Lighting, professional hair and makeup artist, and well-conceived photography will make the difference.

A man in a suit is sitting at a table with a laptop computer.

Behind-the-Scenes Shot

Prospective clients and customers love to see behind-the-scenes shots. This gives them an inside look and makes them feel confident that they have gotten to know you and your brand. It builds trust and authority. These types of photos include candid, authentic moments that show your process, personality, and the human side of your brand. These are often set up by the photographer so they are well lit and appear to be candid.

Our photography studio is located in the heart of Orange County. We provide professional services to all cities in the OC and are happy to serve LA County.

 

Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Tustin, Villa Park, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Los Alamitos, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, OrangeSanta Ana, Seal Beach, Westminster, Yorba Linda, Corona Del Mar, Anaheim


 Professional Branding Photographer Near Me