S7, E3: Building a Timeless Brand with Bespoke Photography and Visual Narratives with Tori Sikkema

Imagine the first time a potential client encounters your work—not through a conversation or a handshake, but through a single image. That image holds the power to captivate, inspire, and tell a story that words alone often cannot. For designers, visual storytelling isn’t just a tool; it’s the bridge between their creative vision and how the world perceives it. By crafting a compelling visual narrative that reflects the essence of a space, a brand, or a project, you create an emotional connection, build trust, and establish a unique identity. Every design has a story waiting to be told, and through the lens of photography, those stories come alive, resonating deeply and leaving a lasting impact.

In today’s episode, Tori Sikkema shares her inspiring journey as a visual storyteller, her passion for connecting with creatives, and her unique approach to bespoke photography. We dive into how she helps designers and entrepreneurs build stronger brand identities through compelling imagery, providing you with actionable tools and inspiration to transform your brand through visual storytelling.

Tori is a bespoke interior, architectural, and celebrity photographer whose work radiates the timeless elegance of Hollywood glamour. She doesn’t just take photos—she creates stunning visual narratives that elevate design projects and bring brands to life with a unique blend of artistry and storytelling. Featured in Architectural Digest, Lux, Aspire, House Beautiful, and Good Housekeeping, Tori’s award-winning photography has made waves in the design industry. She is also the dynamic host of The Brand Lift Podcast, where she shares branding, marketing, and business insights for creatives.

 

Key Highlights from the Episode: 

[00:01] Intro and a bit about our guest, Tori Sikkema 

[02:32] Tori’s journey into Bespoke Interior and Architectural photography [06:02] Travel and Hollywood: How storytelling inspires Tori’s work [08:18] Workflow: Creating a process that is consistent and repeatable [10:22] Tips on how to tell the story of a design through photography [12:49] How visual narratives build trust and connection with potential clients [14:56] Tori’s most favorite project’s storytelling, branding, and vision alignment [20:07] How to use storyboard and shortlist to aid visual storytelling [22:59] What it takes to tell a story, attract a client, and get a sale [24:27] Tori’s branding and marketing tips for launches 

[29:11] The parallels between photography and podcasting

[31:03] What’s next for Tori and how she hopes to continue inspiring creatives [32:32] How to reach out, connect, or learn more about Tori 

Notable Quotes: 

• "Without understanding who you are, what you do, and who you’re trying to reach, you can’t tell the story." 
• "Your visual marketing aspect is your first handshake with your client who has not even met you." 
• "Before you even have a conversation with a prospective client, you’re putting your best face of your design project through visual imagery, so it’s critical to capture it through professional photography, it’s your calling card." ● “Find that design project that you can use as your laboratory and go wild” 

Connect with Tori Sikkema: 

• Website: https://torisikkemaphotos.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torisikkemaphotography/

Learn more about Thrive In Design: 

• Website: thriveindesign.co
• Instagram: @thriveindesign
• Facebook: Thrive In Design
• LinkedIn: Thrive In Design

Register for the next Thrive In Design live training here: 

https://training.thriveindesign.co/ 

Get your copy of "The Ultimate Guide to A&D Sales" here: 

https://www.thriveindesign.co/brand-reps

Read the Thrive In Design Insights blog for more in-depth strategies and expert tips: https://www.thriveindesign.co/our-blog