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

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 And if they’re out-of-date, awkward, or clearly cropped from someone's wedding—well, you’re not exactly rolling out the welcome mat.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.

Closeup of gray sweatshirt with embossed script text reading Las Vegas
By Angela Hanners January 8, 2026
A modern decoration method with low minimums and major impact
By Chelsea Mills January 7, 2026
At Behind Your Design, we enjoy working with companies that are clear on who they are and ready to make sure their marketing reflects it. Benecor was a great example of this. Benecor is a national, family-owned systems integrator that works with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers across multiple industries. Their previous website leaned heavily toward an ecommerce experience, but it did not fully communicate what truly sets them apart: custom-engineered fueling and storage solutions designed around each customer’s operation. Our objective was to shift Benecor’s brand and website from a product-first approach to one that clearly highlights their engineering expertise, problem-solving process, and long-term partnerships. 
January 7, 2026
Behind Your Design was honored to collaborate with Gerych’s Flowers & Events on a stunning 70th birthday celebration that blended elevated design with deeply personal touches. Hosted at the chic and modern MAD NICE , this event was a beautiful example of how the right details can transform a milestone birthday into an unforgettable experience. This celebration came together thanks to an incredible group of collaborators: Floral & Event Design: Alexis Gerych, Kristen Sims, Jon Gerych Rentals: Gerych’s Flowers & Events Lighting & AV: Band Ayd Venue: MAD NICE Cake: Frost This by Amy Adams-Means Signage & Accessories: Behind Your Design Photography: Emily Engler The Power of Personalized Details Behind Your Design created several custom pieces for the event, each designed to feel intentional, meaningful, and seamlessly integrated into the overall aesthetic. These details played a big role in making the celebration feel one-of-a-kind.
January 7, 2026
 In July 2025, Behind Your Design had the pleasure of partnering with John P. O’Sullivan Distributing, Inc. for a full-day photoshoot celebrating some exciting milestones for the company. The shoot highlighted several key initiatives, including the Yuengling draft launch , upcoming bottles and cans launch on January 12, 2026 , and President/Owner Joanie O’Sullivan-Butler’s upcoming role as Chair of the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesaler’s Association . We also captured content for their management team and website.
By Chelsea Mills January 3, 2026
Reflections on My Final Year Leading Young Men in the Workforce
November 12, 2025
Giving Thanks, Giving Local: Celebrating Community with Behind Your Design
Show More