Why I Couldn’t Stop Smiling in My Brand Photos (& What It Taught Me About Authenticity)

From the Maven Diary

Stories, reflections, and behind-the-scenes moments from the people who bring Intrinsic Maven to life.

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A few weeks ago, I booked a photo shoot. I thought I needed to look more "camera-ready," sharper, more styled, more professional. So I tore half my closet apart searching for the perfect outfit.

After ALL that effort, I ended up back in my usual uniform:

🖤 black on black

👟 sneakers

👖 my favorite cargo joggers

And honestly? That felt the most authentic.

Because if you meet me in person, you won't find me in a tailored office suit or high heels (unless it's a cocktail party, and even then, I'll likely swap into sneakers for the dance floor). You'll usually find me in something comfortable, versatile, and very me.

Me in my element: sneakers, joggers, and a whole lot of laughter (aka my real uniform). Proof that authenticity in a photoshoot is better than flawless ever could be.

That's when it clicked: if I wanted these photos to really represent me, I needed to show up in what I actually wear, not what I thought I "should" wear. Because the only way to feel natural in front of the camera is to feel comfortable in your own skin.

And the more I thought about it, the more I realized ... this is branding 101.

Whether it's personal or business branding, the most powerful thing you can do is lean into who you already are, not the "done-up" version you think people expect, but the version people will genuinely meet and connect with.

But here's the thing, the saying "be yourself" is true, but is often overused. So I want to give you something more practical, a way to check in on your brand's authenticity. I call it the TRUE Framework™:

The TRUE Framework

• T - Transparent: Are you showing the story behind your work, not just the picture-perfect look?

• R - Relatable: Can people see themselves in your journey, quirks, or struggles?

• U - Unique: Are you leaning into what sets you apart, instead of blending in?

• E - Expressed: Are your values clearly communicated, or tucked quietly in the background?

This is why a brand photoshoot isn't just about pictures; it's a mirror into how we choose to show up in our brand every day.

Authentic Branding is when your brand feels TRUE, it feels uniquely yours, because it reflects not just what you do, but who you are.

So here's my reminder (for you & for me): stop overthinking the pose, the outfit, or the flawless finish. Your people will connect with you when you show up as yourself.

Big love (and a huge thank you) to Kate from Studio Casually for capturing these moments. While I may not be comfortable in front of the camera, she made the process feel effortless.