Capturing the Face Behind the Voice: A Branding Shoot for Ecommerce Coffee Break Podcast


In the bustling heart of Cape Town, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the excitement of entrepreneurial spirit, I recently had the pleasure of conducting a branding photoshoot for a true titan of the ecommerce podcasting world. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of my session with Claus Lauter, the voice behind the top-rated Ecommerce Coffee Break podcast.


Meeting the Man Behind the Microphone


As a Cape Town photographer specializing in branding and corporate portraits, I've had the opportunity to work with a diverse array of professionals. However, there's always something special about capturing the essence of someone whose voice is known to thousands, yet whose face remains a mystery to many.


Claus Lauter's Ecommerce Coffee Break podcast is more than just a show – it's a phenomenon in the Shopify ecosystem. Ranked among the top 5% most popular global shows on ListenNotes and recognized as a Top 20 Shopify Podcast, Ecommerce Coffee Break has become a go-to resource for online sellers, merchants, and DTC brands looking to elevate their game.


Setting the Scene: On-Location Magic in the Mother City


For this branding shoot, we chose a setting that perfectly encapsulated the essence of Claus's podcast – a charming Cape Town coffee shop. The location not only provided a genuine backdrop that aligned with the podcast's theme but also offered us the opportunity to create a diverse set of images that would serve multiple purposes in Claus's branding strategy.


As a professional headshot photographer in Cape Town, I always strive to find locations that resonate with my client's brand. In this case, the coffee shop setting was ideal, offering both indoor and outdoor options that allowed us to capture Claus in various scenarios – from the focused podcast host to the approachable ecommerce expert.


Lighting the Way: Techniques for the Perfect Shot


One of the key challenges – and opportunities – of on-location shoots is managing lighting. For Claus's session, I employed a combination of available light and off-camera flash with a softbox. This setup allowed me to create professional, polished images while maintaining the authentic, relaxed atmosphere of the coffee shop.


As a corporate photographer in Cape Town, I've honed my skills in creating studio-quality lighting in diverse settings. The use of a softbox with the off-camera flash helped to soften shadows and create a flattering, natural look that complemented the available light in the coffee shop.

Ecommerce podcast host working on laptop in Cape Town coffee shop, captured by local photographer

Capturing Claus: A Range of Expressions and Poses

Throughout the shoot, we focused on creating a variety of images that would serve Claus well across different platforms and media. Here's a glimpse into some of the key shots we captured:



  1. Claus sitting at a table, engrossed in work on his laptop while enjoying a cup of coffee. This shot captures the essence of the "coffee break" theme while showcasing Claus as a dedicated professional.
  2. A warm, engaging portrait of Claus at the same table, this time without the laptop and coffee, smiling directly into the camera. This image is perfect for use as a professional headshot across various platforms.
  3. Claus seated in front of a clean white wall, offering a more minimalist backdrop that puts the focus squarely on him. This versatile shot can be used in a variety of marketing materials.
  4. A shot of Claus working behind his laptop, capturing his focus and dedication. This image helps to establish his authority in the ecommerce space.


The Power of Professional Branding Photography


In today's digital age, where personal branding is more important than ever, professional photography plays a crucial role. For podcast hosts like Claus, who primarily connect with their audience through audio, high-quality visual branding becomes even more critical when they do make visual appearances.

As a branding photographer in Cape Town, I understand the importance of creating images that not only look professional but also authentically represent the individual and their brand. These photos will serve Claus across various platforms – from his podcast website and newsletter to social media profiles and guest appearance promotions.

Professional portrait of podcast host in Cape Town, smiling confidently at the camera

Client Satisfaction: The Ultimate Measure of Success


The true measure of a successful photoshoot is client satisfaction. I was thrilled to receive this feedback from Claus after our session:


"Jurgen Banda-Hansmann exceeded my expectations with his business photography. He has a remarkable ability to capture both professional image and personal essence. His creative eye, technical skill, and friendly demeanor made the shoot enjoyable and productive. The resulting photos perfectly represent me and my brand. I highly recommend Jurgen for anyone seeking quality, personality-driven professional photography."


This testimonial underscores my commitment as a Cape Town photographer to not just take pictures, but to create impactful images that truly represent my clients and their brands.


Key Takeaways for Your Next Branding Shoot

If you're considering a branding photoshoot, here are some key points to keep in mind:


  • Location Matters: Choose a setting that resonates with your brand and offers versatility.
  • Lighting is Key: Whether using natural light or artificial lighting, ensure it flatters and enhances your professional image.
  • Variety is Essential: Capture a range of expressions and poses to give yourself options for different uses.


Ready to Elevate Your Brand with Professional Photography?


Whether you're a podcast host like Claus, a corporate executive, or an entrepreneur, professional branding photography can significantly impact how your audience perceives you and your business. As a dedicated Cape Town photographer specializing in corporate and branding photography, I'm here to help you create a visual brand that truly represents you.


Ready to take your personal or business brand to the next level? Let's chat about creating a custom photoshoot that captures your unique essence and professional expertise. Book your consultation today and let's start crafting the perfect visual story for your brand.


Remember, in the world of business, a picture isn't just worth a thousand words – it could be worth thousands of new opportunities. Invest in your brand with professional photography, and watch your business soar to new heights.