One important goal for branding photos is to establish a strong theme. This theme needs to tie into a business’s marketing to help it communicate and stand apart from others. For real estate company Tim Thompson Premier Realtors, this theme meant capturing their family’s longstanding ties to Franklin, Tennessee.
When I photographed the principals of the firm in Franklin, Tennessee for Franklin Lifestyle magazine, we knew wanted to establish the company’s deep-seated roots in the community. The firm operates out of a small historic home just off Main Street, so we began there.
I met Tess Thompson, daughter of founder Tim Thompson, who ushered me into the nationally registered bungalow to begin. Tess’s wide, winning smile made it easy to see that she has a gift for making clients feel “at home.” This is a true asset for a real estate professional. And I could tell immediately that she loved her work and profession.
Tess introduced me to Tim and to her brother, Brent, both of whom were kind and welcoming. I scoped out which areas of the house to create our first branding photos. The rich dark planked floors and beautiful white wood work created a rich background for our portrait work. Because the window light was limited, I set up additional lighting diffused with a softbox to create bright and flattering editorial images.
Capturing the fabric of history
The Thompsons have rich ties to Franklin and were eager to expand their branding photos to the historic scenery around the town square. The weather was lovely and we set off to walk several blocks toward the courthouse. Once we arrived, Tess showed me a bench that had been dedicated to one of their family members. We selected that bench for several portraits.
We then walked to the center of the square to capture the view down Main street. This iconic perspective was a perfect portrait backdrop for their brand. Finally, as we strode back to the office, I encouraged the team to make one more stop. I asked them to pose in front of one of Franklin’s jewels, the historic Franklin Theatre. The theatre opened in 1937. A recent outpouring of citizen fundraising and support saved the theatre from destruction.
Real estate in their blood
Now in its second generation, Tim Thompson Premier Realty truly has real estate in its blood. This knowledge and expertise passed down from Tim to his children and team helps clients looking to make beautiful Franklin, Tennessee their home or place of business.
