Liz Marie, of Liz Marie Strategy is an award winning brand strategist and creative whizz who has worked with small businesses and Fortune 100 companies alike.
I had the pleasure of getting to know Liz at WEX LA (Women Empowerment Expo) in January where we hit it off like old school mates; and then during Covid, we used the time to hash out a plan to collaborate and trade skill sets.
Liz’ talents are focused on serving women and BIPOC business owners conceive and implement brand design and storytelling to help grow their organizations and stand out from the crowd. Our client end-goals are two sides of the same coin. To help create distinct voices, stories and visuals that reflect our clients' WHY so they in turn appeal beautifully and authentically to their target audience.
Working with Liz to bring her personal brand images to life was a creative treat. We started by mood boarding her desired shot list and establishing the look and feel of the session on Pinterest.
Liz says, "Planning for the photoshoot was a turning point for me. It helped me recognize where my current image wasn’t aligned and get clarity about how I wanted to evolve it in the right direction.”
Though she is obviously well versed in helping her clients conceive of their brand identity, when it came to her own direction, I wanted to guide the final choices so as to capture enough range and variety without losing sight of the overarching tone of the shoot.
"When we reviewed the mood board together, I was amazed at all of the common threads Nicolette was able to pull out --things I didn’t even realize I was drawn to. She was able to deconstruct my vision in order to help me reconstruct it in my own way. From there, it became very simple. Find these types of outfits, bring these types of props--it was just checking the box, which was not only easy to manage but made me feel way more prepared," says Liz.
So we planned her photoshoot over the course of two afternoons. The first in studio - in order to capture the feeling of who working Liz is like. And the second, outdoors in downtown Culver City where we could be more spontaneous and showcase her fresh, urban vibe in order to emotionally connect her to organizations seeking a modern, youthful and down-to-earth approach to their own branding.
Liz says, "We created so many different looks, but we also got a chance to play and try out ideas that gave me some really unique shots. By being thoughtful and deliberate throughout the process, we were able to capture the heart of my brand. I don’t have to doubt the image I’m projecting to the world. That alone is amazing!"
Examples from Liz' lifestyle shoot.
The goal was to create 20+ images Liz can use over time on her social media, website and in marketing collateral to attract like-minded creative entrepreneurs.
She had to think about how she wanted to be portrayed in an authentic way, what would instill trust and confidence amongst her audience, and help her stand out from the competition. "Those are the lenses that we use to craft an effective brand strategy-- so Nicolette helped me take all the core elements of my strategy and capture that in photos that tell a story.”
By putting herself out there through imagery that reinforces her personal brand, she aligns herself more closely to ideal clients who resonate with her genuine identity.
She says, "Just like all good branding, high-end photos make you look like you’re worth more money. It helps your potential customers trust you more because you look the part… and you can charge more as a result. So it is literally an investment in your brand and your business. One that can be recouped several times over. Visuals are powerful. Branding photography like Nicolette’s can completely elevate your brand, so that you can earn more, get more clients, get the right clients and bring your vision to life. Plus, if you’re a creative, you’re going to love the process!"
To find out how I can help you elevate your brand through unique, compelling imagery, email nicolette@NJPphotography.com or call 310.622.4580.
A photoshoot with me is a transformative experience that gives you permission to shine in all your wonderful and beautiful uniqueness.
You'll leave your session feeling exhilarated and emboldened to tell your story, your way. Your photos will connect you with your target audience. Your photos will connect you to yourself.
With the use of my certified life coaching techniques and a fine tuned emotional IQ, I will help you feel at ease and lit up with genuine self-confidence. I invite you to book a session with me. I guarantee, you'll love the results. It might even change the way you see yourself.
Portrait photographer serving the LGBTQIA and greater community in Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, Southbay, Ventura and Orange County. Offering formal portraiture, modern glamour photography, personal branding, corporate headshot photography, candid children's photography, family photography, business & acting headshots, as well as events and editorial coverage. Located near Larchmont Village, Hancock Park and Paramount Studios.