Our April cover photography features bluebells this month, taken by local photographer, Chris Hornby.
Chris has always been a keen photographer, with his passion being wildlife photography.
Alongside this interest, he has been running his own businesses since 1990, including a Mortgage Advice business established in 1999. Over the years, this experience has given him valuable insight into the realities of owning and running a business.
One of the biggest challenges facing small businesses, he believes, is simply being seen and found by potential customers and clients. This is where Brand Photography can make a real difference as part of a business’s marketing.
Following his passion for photography, last year he invested considerable time and money working with a specialist mentor in this sector. As a result, he was delighted to launch his Brand Photography business in September 2025.
What is Brand Photography?
As people tend to buy from people, it is important for potential customers and clients to get to know the person behind the business, rather than simply seeing a faceless company with a shelf full of products.
Brand Photography provides a carefully planned photoshoot that captures both the individual and their brand. It goes far beyond a few standard headshots, showcasing the business owner at work, relaxing, and in the environments that reflect their life and work. This might include their workplace, and even home life or family if they wish. It brings to mind the old Mars bar advert – showing someone at “work, rest and play”.
The most popular option is a three-hour shoot. This includes a pre-shoot planning conversation and some preparation by the client to ensure a clear understanding of their brand. The session allows time for wardrobe and location changes, and on completion the client receives a portfolio of up to 150 on-brand images ready to use across their website and social media channels. A social media calendar with ideas for future posts is also included.
So, while Chris can still be found sitting under a bush or on the edge of a stream, waiting for that elusive bird or mammal to appear for his wildlife photography, during the week he enjoys helping small and medium-sized businesses get noticed in the wilds of social media.
