Is It Time to Update Your Team Photos? (Yeah, Probably)

Matt Mills • June 2, 2025

Let’s be honest—when’s the last time you actually looked at the “Meet the Team” section on your website? Not skimmed it. Not clicked past it. I mean really looked.


If it’s been a few years, there’s a good chance that what’s up there doesn’t match the reality of your team today. Maybe Susan grew out her bangs, or Greg hasn’t worn a tie since 2019. Maybe two of the smiling faces in your header moved on ages ago—and yet, there they are, frozen in pixels like ghosts of small business past.


It's nothing to be ashamed of. We've all been there. But here's the thing: your team photos aren't just filler. They're first impressions. They're trust-builders. And if they’re out-of-date, awkward, or clearly cropped from someone's wedding—well, you’re not exactly rolling out the welcome mat.


Let’s talk about why updating those photos is one of the simplest, most effective ways to level up how people see your business.


That “Stock Photo” Energy? Yeah, People Can Tell


You know what’s worse than old team photos? Generic ones.


We’ve all seen those painfully stiff group shots—everyone lined up like they’re auditioning for a corporate crime drama. Or worse, the fake handshake photos. (Why are those still a thing?)


Customers and clients can smell fake a mile away. In a time when people crave authenticity—real faces, real stories—those overly polished, clearly staged images just don’t cut it anymore.


What works? Real teams, real smiles, real settings. We recently worked with Women’s Integrated Health Care, which has locations in Grand Blanc, Clarkston, Davison, Fenton, Marlette, and Sandusky. Their team was incredible—warm, welcoming, and passionate about what they do. Our photo shoot focused on capturing that exact energy. Not just headshots, but moments that reflect how they care for their patients and support each other. That authenticity? It jumps off the screen.

Your Brand Has Grown—Have Your Photos Kept Up?


Think back to when you started your business. Maybe you bootstrapped everything—DIY website, borrowed office furniture, and a team pic snapped on someone’s iPhone in front of a brick wall “because it looked cool.”

And that was totally fine… then.


But if your company has grown—if you’ve invested in better branding, tightened up your messaging, updated your services—then your visuals should reflect that growth too. Otherwise, you're sending mixed signals.


A sleek website paired with grainy, badly lit team pics? It’s like wearing a tailored suit with flip-flops. It just feels off.


When we worked with Pulmonary Associates, with offices in Flint and Grand Blanc, we were able to bring their team’s professionalism and expertise to life in a fresh, approachable way. The updated photos now match their high standard of care and the trust their patients place in them every day.

People Buy People


It sounds a bit cheesy, but it’s true: people don’t do business with companies, they do business with people. And those people, your team, should be front and center.


Whether you're a local accounting firm, a boutique bakery, or a multi-location medical practice, clients want to see the humans behind the name. Not just for credibility, but for connection. For a sense of, “Hey, I think I’d like working with them.”


Good team photos can:

  • Make your business feel approachable
  • Reinforce your brand vibe (fun, professional, laid-back, you name it)
  • Boost internal pride and culture
  • Help prospective clients feel like they already know you


And when that happens? You’ve already made your sale halfway.


But… “We’re Not a Photogenic Bunch”


Yeah, yeah. We’ve heard this one before.

Here’s the truth: you don’t need to look like models—you just need to look like you. The right photographer isn’t there to make you look like something you’re not. They’re there to capture the best, most relaxed, most authentic version of your team.


You’d be amazed what a comfortable environment and a good sense of humor can do for a photo shoot. We’ve seen it firsthand—when people laugh a little, loosen up, and stop thinking so hard about their hair, that’s when the magic happens.


Team Changes = Photo Changes


If you’ve had staff turnover (which, let’s face it, is almost everyone in the last few years), your photos might feel a bit… outdated.

And yes, that matters. It’s a little like showing up to a meeting with the wrong business card, confusing, and it doesn’t inspire much confidence.


Even if you’re not redoing your whole site, updating your team section when people come and go is a smart habit. Not only does it keep things accurate, but it’s a small signal that says, “We care about the details. We’re proud of our team.”


But What If It’s Just Me?


Solo entrepreneur? Freelancer? One-person powerhouse?


Then especially don’t hide behind an old LinkedIn headshot or, worse, no photo at all. Your face is your brand. And having a current, confident, well-lit photo isn’t about vanity—it’s about visibility.

People want to know who they’re supporting. A photo makes your story feel real.


So… Is It Time?


Let’s do a quick gut check:

  • Does your team photo feature anyone who’s no longer with your company?
  • Is anyone in the shot rocking a hairstyle or fashion choice they’ve since left behind?
  • Do the photos feel aligned with your brand tone and values?
  • Would you be proud to have a potential client or partner look at them?


If even one of those made you squirm a little, you’ve got your answer.


Final Thoughts (Because Sometimes You Just Need a Nudge)


Updating your team photos might seem like a small detail,but it’s one that ripples through every first impression, every proposal, every digital handshake.


And if it’s been a while… maybe it’s time.


Book the photographer. Set aside an hour. Make it a fun team moment, play music, share snacks, laugh a little. We’ll help you look like you, only more polished and on-brand.


Because when your photos reflect who you really are as a business? People notice. And they remember.


Let’s get your team camera-ready.

A computer monitor and a cell phone with a new website design
By Chelsea Mills July 17, 2025
See how Behind Your Design helped Motion Control Corporation energize their brand across every platform.
A man and a woman are standing next to each other on a golf course holding magazines.
By Chelsea Mills July 9, 2025
We're Thrilled to Be A Part of Something Great!
A new website design for tastyfoodguys.com
By Chelsea Mills July 9, 2025
We’re proud to share the new website for Tasty Food Guys.
By Chelsea Mills July 7, 2025
We’re excited to extend an exclusive invitation to a special Behind Your Design client event — a one-day promotional product showcase designed to spark fresh ideas for your brand. Join us on September 17th at Ford Field in Detroit for a hands-on look at the newest, most creative promotional products available this year. You’ll have the chance to see, touch, and compare hundreds of products in person — from trending corporate gifts to stand-out trade show giveaways and custom apparel your team will actually want to wear. This invite-only experience is all about exploring what’s possible for your next campaign or event — with no pricing talk and no sales pitch. Just inspiration, ideas, and time with our team to help you plan for what’s ahead. 
By Chelsea Mills July 7, 2025
Kettering allowed us the opportunity to make lapel pins and cord keepers to use as gifts for their students and staff. These are very popular because they show affiliation with the university. The pins and cord keepers symbolize achievement and belonging, and they are very stylish. It makes a statement to others to show that you are a part of something that is worthy to be shown to people. Here at BYD, we offer branded swag to help attract the best candidates to your business. Corporate swag, also known as promotional products or branded merchandise, can offer several benefits for businesses as part of their marketing and branding efforts. However, it also comes with some challenges. Here's an overview of the benefits and challenges of corporate swag: Benefits:  Brand Awareness: Corporate swag can increase brand visibility and recognition. When people use or wear items with your company's logo, it acts as a constant advertisement. Customer Loyalty: Giving away branded merchandise to customers or clients can foster a sense of appreciation and loyalty. It can make customers feel valued and more likely to return or recommend your business. Employee Morale: Providing employees with branded swag can boost morale and create a sense of belonging. It can also serve as a tangible reminder of their association with the company. Trade Shows and Events: Branded items are popular giveaways at trade shows and events. They can attract visitors to your booth and serve as reminders of your company after the event. Lead Generation: Swag items can be used as incentives for lead generation. For example, offering a free promotional item in exchange for contact information can help build your marketing database. Cost-Effective Marketing: Compared to some other marketing strategies, corporate swag can be cost-effective, especially when ordered in bulk. Tangible Marketing: Swag provides a tangible way to connect with your audience. People often retain and use branded items, extending the lifespan of your marketing efforts. Challenges: Costs: While corporate swag can be cost-effective when done right, it can also become expensive, especially if you invest in high-quality or custom items. Budget constraints can be a challenge. Waste: Swag items that aren't well-received or are of low quality can lead to waste. They might end up in the trash, and this can have negative environmental implications. Effectiveness: The effectiveness of swag can vary widely depending on the type of items you choose and how they align with your target audience's preferences. It's essential to select items that resonate with your audience. Storage and Distribution: Managing and storing a stockpile of swag items, as well as distributing them to the right people at the right time, can be logistically challenging, especially for large organizations. Competition: Many businesses use corporate swag, so standing out in a sea of branded merchandise can be difficult. To be effective, your swag needs to be unique and memorable. ROI Measurement: It can be challenging to measure the return on investment (ROI) of corporate swag. Determining whether the cost of producing and distributing swag results in tangible benefits can be elusive. Sustainability Concerns: With growing environmental awareness, there's a greater emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly promotional products. Using non-environmentally friendly swag can generate negative perceptions. In summary, corporate swag can be a valuable tool for marketing and branding efforts, but it should be approached strategically. Careful consideration of the type of items, their quality, and their alignment with your target audience is crucial. Additionally, managing costs, waste, and sustainability concerns should be part of your swag strategy to ensure its effectiveness. If you're interested in this product for your business and/or event contact us at (810) 373-9293 or www.behindy ourdesign.com/contact
By Chelsea Mills July 1, 2025
Behind the Design: Elevating Namaste & Rosé with Eye-Catching Graphics
Show More