Step-by-Step Guide to Your Ottawa Branding & Headshot Photography Experience

Shopify logo – branding photography client of Michael Dupe in Ottawa
Business Insider logo – publication featuring work by Michael Dupe, Ottawa branding photographer
Heinz logo – corporate photography client of Michael Dupe Photography, Ottawa
Faces Magazine logo – Ottawa brand photographed by Michael Dupe
Zen Moissanite Fine Jewelry logo – product and branding photography by Michael Dupe in Ottawa

Step 1 – Initial Consultation & Photoshoot Planning

We start with a free consultation over the phone or via messaging to understand your needs, goals, and vision.
This is where we’ll talk about:

  • The purpose of your photos (LinkedIn, website, marketing, press, etc.)

  • Your brand style, colors, and messaging

  • Location preferences — studio, outdoor, or your workspace

  • Wardrobe guidance to match your personal or business brand

By the end of this step, you’ll know exactly what to expect and I’ll tailor a custom photography session plan for you.

Branding Photoshoot in Ottawa wearing fashionable business attire outdoors with blue skies

If you’re looking for an Ottawa headshot photographer who will make the process easy, comfortable, and impactful — let’s start planning your session today.

As an Ottawa headshot photographer and branding specialist, I create portraits that go beyond just looking good — they tell your brand story and capture your personality. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional in Ottawa, your images should make a lasting impression both online and in person.

At Michael Dupe Photography, I make the process of getting professional branding and headshot photos simple, efficient, and stress-free — so you can focus on running your business while I handle capturing your best image. Whether you’re an entrepreneur building your personal brand or a professional in need of a polished headshot, I’ll guide you from start to finish.

Outdoor Ottawa Branding Session Smiling walking down stairs

Step 2 – Booking & Securing Your Session

Once you’re ready to move forward, booking is easy:

  • A 50% retainer reserves your date and time

  • You’ll receive a confirmation with all session details in writing

  • I’ll send you my Photoshoot Preparation Guide so you can feel confident and ready for your shoot

Step 3 – The Photoshoot Experience

This is where the magic happens.

  • Branding Photography – Multiple locations in Ottawa, varied looks, and lifestyle images to show your personality and brand story

Headshot Photography – Clean, polished portraits with expert lighting and flattering angles

I’ll give you simple direction that feels natural rather than forced. Every session is designed to be comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable, so the entire process feels less like a photoshoot and more like a conversation that just happens to produce images you’ll be proud to share across your professional platforms.

Photoshoot in Ottawa studio of a smiling mortgage specialist

Step 4 – Professional Editing & Retouching

After your shoot, I professionally edit each image.

  • Expert retouching process includes:

    • Culling (selecting the best shots)

    • Color correcting, cropping, and straightening for perfect framing

    • Skin retouching done personally by hand using industry-leading dodging and burning techniques

    • Blemish removal, background corrections, hair volumizing, fly-away hair removal and light manipulation

    • Advanced edits compositing (can be discussed at an extra fee)

    • Separation of light, color, and texture to maintain image quality and texture

    • Specific edits such as removing wrinkles from clothing and luminosity masks for beauty retouching (can be discussed at an extra fee)

    • Compositing and other advanced professional techniques tailored to your needs (can be discussed at an extra fee)

Step 5 – Delivery & Usage Rights

You’ll receive two private online galleries:

  • A soft proof gallery where you review and select your favourite images

  • A final gallery with a large selection of high-resolution, professionally edited photos

  • All images include full personal and commercial usage rights, allowing you to use them anywhere — from billboards to business cards

Branding Photography studio photoshoot on white with two beauty aestheticians wearing pink matching scrubs and showcasing products
Branding photoshoot beauty spa treatment tools and candles showing the relaxing ambience

Why Choose Michael Dupe Photography?

  • Specializing in branding photography in Ottawa & Gatineau for entrepreneurs, professionals, and small businesses

  • Years of experience working with corporate teams, startups, and creatives

  • Focused on creating images that connect with your audience and elevate your brand

  • Streamlined, professional process that respects your time

Book Your Photography Session Today

Whether you need branding photography to tell your business story or a professional headshot to stand out on LinkedIn or your website to make clients feel more comfortable, I’ll guide you through every step.

Contact Me to Schedule Your Consultation and let’s start building your visual brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • My studio is conveniently located in Ottawa, making it easy for local professionals and businesses to book their headshot or branding session. I also offer on-location shoots at your office or preferred space for added convenience.

  • Yes — I create high-quality Ottawa headshots that are perfect for LinkedIn, company websites, business cards, press releases, and other professional uses. I ensure your headshot communicates confidence, approachability, and professionalism.

  • Branding sessions in Ottawa include a wide selection of high-resolution, professionally edited images that tell your business story. From lifestyle portraits to product photography, each session is customized to your brand’s personality and marketing goals.

  • I provide detailed preparation tips for clothing, grooming, and posing so you can arrive confident and ready. I also help guide you through every pose and expression during the shoot to ensure natural, flattering results.

  • For Ottawa headshot sessions, final edited images are typically delivered within 3–5 business days. Branding sessions may take slightly longer, depending on the volume of images. Rush turnaround is available upon request.

  • Sessions can take place in my studio, at your office, in a co-working space, or at a curated outdoor location. I’ll help select the perfect setting that fits your brand story and visual identity.

  • Yes — all headshot and branding photography sessions include full personal and commercial usage rights, so you can use your images for anything from LinkedIn to billboards.

  • Yes, I regularly photograph corporate teams, executives, and staff in Ottawa. Group sessions can be held at my studio or on-site at your office for convenience.

  • You can contact me directly through my website or by phone to discuss your goals, check availability, and secure your session.

  • This was my second time shooting with Mike! I don’t have to talk about his photos, it’s evident how talented he is if you look through his Insta. I do want to mention that not only is he really easy to talk to and relay ideas with but he is so funny, there will not be a single boring moment with Mike! I always recommend him to anyone who asks me about photographers.

    Prayatna S - Ottawa

  • Michael has done my son's acting headshots for 2 years now. They have turned out amazing each time. Michael is very encouraging and makes him very relaxed during the shoot. I'm really pleased with all the photos so far. Thank you so much !!!

    Sara Q. - Ottawa

  • After recently working with Micheal on a branding photoshoot I couldn’t be happier with the end result! From helping to draft my initial concept/vision to executing the final images he was professional and enthusiastic during each step of the process. He truly went above and beyond by creating a mood-board for us to reference throughout the shoot, directing me on posing and props, as well as allowing me to select the final images from an online gallery. Trust me when I say that Micheal knows how to capture the perfect image for any occasion and you won’t be disappointed when choosing his services! 5 stars and then some, highly recommended! :)

    Marae D. - Ottawa

  • I absolutely love shooting with Michael! He is an amazing photographer and person! The final photos never disappoint. I always recommend him to anyone who’s looking for a great photographer! Definitely one of the best there is in the Ottawa area!

    Georgia P. - Ottawa

  • Michael is an incredible photographer, his creativity and professionalism made every photoshoot I’ve had with him excellent. He will guide you with his creative direction which is greatly appreciated if your not confident in your poses. I highly recommend Mike!

    Brittany. F - Ottawa

  • I have had the privilege of working with Michael a few times and man, he doesn't disappoint. Makes the room feel so comfortable and easy going and is overall a pleasure to work with. I will continue to collab with him for sure. Lucky to have met him ✌ He has an eye for the camera for sure and works wonders with his editing skills after. Till we Shoot again Thank you

    Meyha.O - Ottawa