Supplier Spotlight: Suzy Red Photography - Making Your Brand Feel Real

Supplier Spotlight: Suzy Red Photography - Making Your Brand Feel Real

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by stiff, staged brand photos that just don’t capture the real you, you’re not alone. Building Inkie, I learned early on that authentic, in-the-moment photography is more than a “nice to have”, it’s one of the most powerful tools a small business can use to set itself apart. That’s why I’m so excited to shine this week’s spotlight on a creative partner who truly gets it: Suzy Red Photography.

Why Your Brand Photos Need to Feel Real

Let’s be honest: in today’s world of endless scrolling, we’re bombarded by perfect images and curated feeds everywhere we look. But here’s a truth I’ve discovered over two decades in marketing (and endless trial and error): people don’t connect with airbrushed perfection, they connect with real moments, honest expressions, and small details that make your business totally, unmistakably yours.

Photography isn’t just about looking “professional.” It’s your first hello online, the first impression clients, collaborators, and customers get. If they sense authenticity in your photos, they’ll trust you’re the real deal before they even read a word. When your images show real energy, warmth, or a burst of laughter, people can see themselves working with you, because they see a genuine person behind the brand.

Who Is Suzy Red Photography?

Suzy Red is, quite simply, a magician when it comes to capturing natural, editorial-style images that ooze personality. Her approach blends professionalism with a knack for putting even the most camera-shy founder at ease. Whether you’re posing for a brand shoot, running a workshop, or simply want photos for your website that don’t feel forced, Suzy delivers shots that reveal the story behind the business.

You can soak up her portfolio on suzyredphotography.com and follow along on Instagram at @suzyredred. The variety, energy, and honesty in every set show why clients (myself included) keep coming back. Think editorial, never cheesy, photos that make your feed feel like a magazine, not a catalogue.

The Power of Editorial, Candid Images

I’ve lost count of the number of shoots I’ve done where the best photo was snapped in a split-second off-guard moment. The old advice “just relax” never really works, but a great photographer like Suzy will spot the real you, whether that’s a nervous giggle, a big gesture, or a candid chat with your team.

Editorial, candid images serve your brand by:

• Showing your passion in action: Think shots of you mid-conversation, laughing, or scribbling down big plans
• Making your website and socials instantly relatable: Stock images are fine in a pinch, but nothing beats a photo of the real humans behind your brand
• Giving you content you actually want to share (and don’t cringe at later!)
• Building trust by letting audiences “meet” you in a relaxed, genuine way

A Sneak Peek: Autumn Shoot Day at Pickwell

We’re about to bring some autumnal magic to the next Inkie photos, and I’m thrilled to announce our upcoming shoot day with Suzy Red Photography at Pickwell (date to be confirmed, but keep your eyes peeled). These sessions are a brilliant chance for small business owners to update their portfolio with seasonal, editorial images that actually feel like you.

If you’re considering new headshots, team photos, or a content refresh this autumn, joining a group shoot or booking a session with Suzy is a smart move. Not only is it far less daunting (and more cost-effective) than booking a solo session, but you also get to collaborate and share energy with other founders, making the day creative and fun, not intimidating.

Tips for Getting the Most from Your Brand Photography

Whether you work with Suzy or another photographer, here’s my honest advice from experience:

• Emphasise brand colours and personality: Bring outfits, props, or backdrops that reflect your brand. Suzy is brilliant at weaving these touches into each frame.
• Communicate your goals: Tell your photographer what you want from the session (website banners, social profile shots, “action” images, candid team moments). They’ll help you get a mix you can actually use.
• Keep it authentic: Don’t worry about awkwardness. The best images often come when you let your guard down. A little movement, a genuine laugh, or even a chat about your business can create pure gold.
• Ask for editorial direction: If you love the magazine-style, let Suzy know; her editorial approach works especially well for founders and micro-businesses who want to look polished but real.

Why I Keep Coming Back to Suzy Red

Photography isn’t about glamour or perfection for me, it’s about honesty and connection. Every time I’ve worked with Suzy, she’s brought out a side of Inkie (and me) that feels true and human. She gets the nervous first-timers, the founders who dread being front and centre, and the need to capture images you’ll be proud of months down the line.

So, whether you’re rebranding, launching something new, or just want to finally replace that cringe LinkedIn photo, Suzy Red Photography is my top pick for bringing your story to life.

Curious about the next shoot day or want to see what a truly honest brand photo session looks like? Drop me a message, or reach out to Suzy via @suzyredred. Let’s make this autumn’s images the ones you love to share, for all the right reasons.

If you’re ready to feel good about your brand imagery, and want support with the rest of your marketing too, don’t forget, Inkie’s here for small business owners who want more than cookie-cutter content. Honest, empowering, and always a little bit different, that’s how we help you show up and stand out online.