I have finally figured out why I am hating the word 'authenticity' so much lately. I am at the point where I hear it, or worse, say it, and I want to kick my own butt. In the business, branding and social media world, you can't escape someone telling you about the importance of being 'authentic'. It has become such common jargon and we have started to use this word to mean something it actually doesn't.

Kat is all about helping you to craft your life to be simpler and tidier. Her blog the Organised Housewife was started to share recipes, printables, tips and ideas about how she worked to keep her home organised and clean. Throughout her seven year blogging journey has seen her work with the likes of the Australian Women's Weekly, the Daily Telegraph, and Channel Nine, as well as Facebook community over 480k. Visibility in her brand has been so important in achieving this.  

Clients come to me for their headshots and social media photography because I can talk brand. Not just 'brand' as in what colours do you want to wear, but the whole kit and caboodle. What's your target audience, what message do you want to send, what is the personality of YOUR brand. Not every brand is about glowing sunsets or wispy beach goddesses. Knowing the what your brand stands for is key to making sure the money that you invest in images was worthwhile. Now, that's all well and good if you know what your brand is. BUT...

In conjunction with the headshot giveaway that I have been running all month (have you entered?!) I have been sharing a heap of information over on Intstagram about headshots in general. 

One of the most important tips is about the power of micro-expressions. When we are face-to-face with someone we intuitively take in so much visual input about body language and expression. This data helps us to decide whether we like or trust someone.

My very first video blog is here and live! And terrible. But hey, it's done.  Listen, we all know that getting more visible in your brand is important. BUT, far out it's hard. We all have a gazillion reasons or excuses about why we should put off getting social media headshots taken for our business. In this video I discuss ( and clearly demonstrate) how you can get past the monkey brain.  

In the last six years I have worked my butt off to build a business for myself.  I have written business plans, branded myself and developed websites a total of 5 times. Do you know what? I am not there yet. In fact, I still work in my professional-level day job. In this time I've learnt a thing or two about the juggle of having a day job and building the business of my dreams; the slow way. 

My business coach was hounding me recently. She wanted me to define the purpose of my business. What was it that I was trying to do? She was making me actually think about this too. I wasn't able to just glibly give her my standard 'take pretty photos' answer.  Bitch 😉. 

I 'chat' to Anna most days. 

We talk business and how I can shape mine. Content marketing and dealing with inferiority. We talk personal stuff; boys, kids, plus-size fashion, life after separation.

She's my arse-kick when I need it and a safe sounding board to throw ideas around. So when she was getting ready to update her brand photos I was so damn excited.