A brand photoshoot is essential to build a personal connection with your audience. A lot of business owners use stock photography to promote their social media platforms & website. But it can be hard to make an impact & connection when using generic cheesy stock photos. As I always say, if you want to look professional, then hire a professional. Your audience wants to get to know YOU, and a personal brand photoshoot is a perfect way to do this.
Yep, it’s the truth. When I first started my business, I had absolutely no brand photography to work with & struggled to convert leads into paying clients. The main reason? I had no connection or visual presentation of myself displayed anywhere. Once I had my first brand photoshoot, I was getting booked out for months in advance. I slowly realized the importance of brand photography, and have committed to shooting brand photos every quarter moving forward.
Without a brand identity or clear vision in place, it will be hard for your photographer to shoot pictures that you will love. I like to brainstorm ideas/goals and create a mood board before booking anything.
A mood board is a perfect way for your photographer to see your brand’s style & vibe. Create a Pinterest board that includes your preferred poses, hair & makeup, outfit, props, and overall aesthetic.
Here are some ideas you should brainstorm in order to have a successful shoot:
A great example of a landscape photo with white space on right for text placement.
Finding a good photographer is the most important part! You’ll want to browse through several local photographers to find one that best fits your style. Not all photographers have the same style. Take a look at their editing style (if it’s bright/airy or darker for example) and their package inclusions. Stalk their social media platforms & portfolio. But most of all, check for social proof! You’ll want to see what other people have mentioned about their brand photoshoot. Some key points I look out for: if the photographer made them feel comfortable, or helped them pose.
If beauty isn’t your strong suit, I’d recommend investing in a hair & makeup artist as well. But if it’s something you know you excel in, you can do it yourself!
You’ll want to research locations that will match your brand. Look for studios/locations that have a variety of furniture options, and a lot of windows for natural light. The location will set the tone for your entire shoot. Depending on your industry & style, it could be at a rental studio, coffee shop, or outdoors for example. Your photographer may also have some ideas for the location once they have a clear vision of your goals for the shoot.
Your outfit will make or break your photoshoot. For my first brand photoshoot, I quickly put together outfits of clothing that I had in my wardrobe. But when I received my photos, I was in shock! It didn’t turn out the way I expected it. Choose outfits that will complement your brand colors & make you feel confident. But it really comes down to choosing outfits that will make you feel confident. Don’t wear something just because it will make you look professional, choose clothing items that are YOU.
Great Tip: Always bring extra jackets/blazers & cardigans. These can add a variety to your photos, where you can take it off/put it on & easily get an extra outfit to shoot in!
You’ll want to bring props that are related to your brand & business. Since I’m a website designer, here are some props I brought for my own brand photoshoots:
The key to a successful brand photoshoot is to showcase your personality & have photos that will make you feel confident. Have fun with your shoot & plan ahead for the best results!
Photographer – Lili Creative Design
Studio – Studio Seventy Four
@CREATEWITHDANIELLE
Barrie Website Designer. Serving worldwide!