5 Tips for your Branding Photo Shoot
So you now realise you need some branding images to grow your business, and you are keen to update your headshots and create some amazing branding images. But before you get stuck into the photo shoot there are a few things that you should consider to get the most value out of your session.
Preparation is key, and if you can get clear on these few points, then your shoot day will be a breeze …
Get clarity and focus
To create a powerful brand you must be able to communicate your message clearly and consistently.
Some questions to help you get focused on your message are:
Who are you?
What is your vision?
What do you want people to know about you?
What images will you need to share your messages?
These are all great questions to work through to get clear on what kinds of images you want for your business. Mood boards are a great way to centralise these ideas and they also provide your photographer with a better understanding of what you want. It's also essential to work with your photographer to create an 'ideal' shot list - those images that you definitely know you want. That way you both have a clear vision of what you are working towards before the shoot begins.
2. What props to use for your brand images.
Now that you have worked on your message and you feel comfortable with what you want your brand to look like, using some of your favourite props can help to tell the story of who you are and what you do.
Health Coach is a great example. A heap of fresh healthy food perfectly delivers on their overall brand message. And as they also provide online programs another prop could be a laptop or other electronic device. This is all inline with what their message is about, and makes it easier to tell their story.
Or maybe you sell products and want to include them in the shoot?
You might want to show some of the tools of your trade or demonstrate how your product works. Every person and business is totally unique, so you can discuss this with your photographer to work out what would be best for you.
Props also allow you to create a great variety of images and helps to tell your story in a unique and authentic way.
3. Location choice
Choose a location that you think best reflects your business. As every person has their own unique brand, this will vary depending on what type of business you are involved in. And the 'vibe' of your business will determine the best location for your shoot.
Sometimes a studio setting against a white background can be the shot you want. This lets you add a lot of text and create some white space in your images.
Or do you have a more lifestyle vibe and being outdoors in the garden/beach or even a local cafe might suit you more?
What sits best with the message you are giving to your clients?
If shooting outdoors you also need to consider the lighting situation. It's best to avoid outdoor locations during the middle of the day as the sunlight can be harsher and produce more contrasty images. Generally, the morning or late afternoon times produce softer, warmer tones. A benefit of using a photographer is that they have a lot of experience with different locations and can help you work out the best location for your brand for you to determine the best spots for your shoot.
I have written about location choices here is you want more info.
4. What should you wear to your branding photo session
This could be a great chance to get that new outfit, or even raid a friends closet!
I generally suggest to wear what your client would expect to see you if they met you. Keep in mind what you do, for example, a pilates instructor could wear workout gear, but it might not be appropriate if you're a Mortgage Broker.
Depending on the look of your brand, try to stick to the 'classics' so your photos won't date, but feel free to throw some colour in there, and definitely stay true to your authentic self and natural style. Your photographer should be happy to bounce some ideas around with you and will be able to tell you what will and won't work.
Remember, the more comfortable you are in your clothes, the more confident you will come across in your photos.
If your session allows it, bring a couple of changes of clothes to maximise the variety of your images. This could be as simple as throwing on a jacket or depending on what you wanted the photos for - a whole new outfit change.
5. Positive Mindset
This is one a lesser known factor, but one of the most important for nailing your branding shoot!
You have realised that good-looking content is an important part of your marketing strategy for your business, and you are ready to take it to the next level!
Mindset can play a big role in the outcome of your shoot, so it's important to bring a positive one! Limiting beliefs can be kicked to the kerb!
Honestly though, at first everyone is a bit unsure and awkward, but pretty quickly we start to have fun and get into the groove of the shoot, so please don't stress - focus on the outcomes and everything will fall into place.
Make the most of this opportunity to present the best version of yourself.
If you don't want to do it yourself, book a makeup artist.
Are you due for a haircut, or your next manicure?
Make sure these things are booked plenty of time in advance to avoid unnecessary stress, and most importantly please have fun with it!
Final Checklist
1. Get focused
What is your message? Are you serious and professional or fun and relaxed? What do you do in your business and what do you want to have photographed. Is your shot list ready?
2. Props and products
What do you use in your business that could add to the story telling aspect of your images?
3. Location
Do you want studio shots or are outdoor/cafe shots more your vibe?
4. Wardrobe
Stay true to your authentic self and natural style. Do I need to book a hairdresser or have my nails done? Do I have a variety of clothes to use?
5. Mindset-Have fun with it!
Think about how these photos will be able to create the business of your dreams and really get present with your intention for the shoot.
