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Blanca Madrigal is a seasoned photographer focusing on personal and business branding, capturing the essence of identity starting with the perfect headshot. With a background in higher education, nonprofit work, and international experience, she brings a unique blend of creativity and professionalism to every session.
Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or need branding photos for your business, Blanca is dedicated to helping you make an impression.
Beyond branding, she is deeply passionate about celebrating the journey of motherhood and enjoys capturing birth stories.
What led you to specialize in business photography? Which aspects of this field fascinate you the most?
My background in business and capturing photography in those settings naturally drew me to business photography. I realized that professional branding is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about capturing the essence of a company or individual.
I’m fascinated by the way visuals can communicate trust, competence, and personality in a split second. And more than anything, I’m personally fulfilled when I can contribute to the confidence of my clients.
What are the key elements that should be included in a professional business photo to build an authentic brand image?
Authenticity is key. I focus on capturing genuine expressions and natural interactions. Lighting, posture, and environment also play significant roles. A professional business photo should reflect confidence and approachability, aligning with the client’s brand values and goals.
Have you ever encountered a situation where you had to work with a client who felt uncomfortable in front of the camera? What techniques do you use to help them relax?
Yes, you’d be surprised at how many people feel uncomfortable at first. To address that, I try to focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere and engaging in casual conversation to take the pressure off. I guide them through natural poses and encourage movement to help them feel less rigid. In some cases, we might do some silly movement exercises to loosen up. Building trust and comfort are key to capturing genuine expressions.
How do you prepare for a photography session for companies? Do you conduct preliminary consultations to better understand the client’s needs and goals?
Absolutely. Before any session, big or small, I schedule consultations to understand the client’s goals and what the message they want to convey is…not forgetting the intended use of the photos and where they will be using them. We discuss wardrobe, settings, and key elements they want to highlight to ensure that the final images align with their goals.
What trends in business photography have you noticed in recent years? Do the changing needs of companies affect your approach to photo sessions?
In recent years, I’ve noticed a shift towards more authentic, less posed imagery. Companies are moving away from overly polished corporate headshots and opting for photos that feel more personal and relatable. This trend aligns with the growing emphasis on transparency and connection in branding.
At the same time, there’s also an increase use of AI in images and companies should be wary of using (or overusing) this technology for key photos (headshots especially), as these will work against the authenticity of the client.
Do you have any advice for those just starting their journey in business photography on how to develop their style and build recognition in this industry?
My advice would be to stay authentic to your vision. It’s tempting to follow trends, but developing a unique style will set you apart. Consistently deliver high-quality work, build strong client relationships, and don’t be afraid to network and market yourself through social media and collaborations. For networking, one can join local business groups and attend meetings and conferences.
What are your favorite tools or editing techniques that help you achieve the perfect visual effect for business clients?
I rely primarily on Adobe Lightroom for color correction and enhancing details without over-editing. I also use subtle retouching to keep the image professional but natural. The goal is to ensure the final product is polished but still true to the individual or brand.
www.blancamadrigal.com
