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How To Have a Successful
Branding Photoshoot
Before you hire a photographer, you need to have a clear branding strategy. You want to have a plan. Understanding the look, feel, and content that supports your brand will ensure you get what you need in your photo session. The more details and specifics you have prepared, the more likely you will be happy with your photographs.
People are not loyal to logos. They are loyal to people. Entrepreneurs trying to sell to clients must create a feeling of trust and loyalty. Essentially, you are selling yourself. Entrepreneurs often struggle posting pictures of themselves, but this is essential so you can connect with your potential clients. If you want to build a solid brand, you need to show up. Branding photos are key. I am going to tell you what to expect and how to have a successful branding photoshoot.
FIND THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER
Find an experienced photographer whose aesthetic is cohesive with your brand. If your ideal client is a straightforward executive and you want your brand to reflect that, you might look for a photographer who specializes in portrait photography. If your ideal client is a creative who is also a stay-at-home mom with a more carefree lifestyle, you would want to look for more of a lifestyle photographer who specializes in candid or behind-the-scenes style of photography.
Search for photographers who have a similar aesthetic to your brand. Look at their reviews on Facebook and Google. Most photographers put their best images on their website, but look through their blog to get an idea of what a full session might look like.
Try to meet with your photographer in person or via FaceTime before your session so you can start to build a relationship and feel comfortable around each other. You can learn a lot about your photographer through communication. Make note of their turnover time and level of professionalism. You want to make sure you find a photographer that you can connect with, but also depend on to deliver exactly what you want.
INSPIRATION BOARD
Create an Inspiration Board. I like to do this on Pinterest. Pin outfits, locations, poses, accessories, props and anything else that is related to your brand. Share your board with your photographer to ensure you are on the same page.
STYLING YOUR SHOOT
Your outfits don’t need to match all your branding colors, but you want them to be cohesive with them. For example, if your colors are all natural tones, don’t come to the shoot in a neon pink blazer. Be mindful of how the images will look on your website or social media with your branding colors.
Pick outfits that fit with your location. If you are shooting outdoors in a grassy field, you won’t want to wear high heels. Decide what types of clothing will look best with your location.
Choose outfits that are flattering to your body type. Remember, just because you look good in something doesn’t mean it will necessarily photograph well. If you are self-conscious of certain parts of your body, try to cover them or make them less obvious. Avoid clothing that is too tight or ill fitting.
Prepare several different looks to maximize the time you have with your photographer. Take a picture in each outfit beforehand and send it to your photographer for feedback. She might suggest adding an accessory or altering the look in some way. Consider the different seasons. If you are shooting at an indoor location you are able to wear a variety of clothing for different seasons. You don’t have the same flexibility with outdoor shoots.
USING PROPS
Bring props that are relevant to your brand. Keep in mind different shots you will need for the type of content you release. If you are a writer, you might think of bringing your laptop, a notebook/journal or glasses. Other props might be iPhone, coffee cup, magazines, food, etc. Ask your photographer to help you create some flatlay options to add to your image library.
LOCATIONS
Decide what type of location fits your look or vice versa. Make sure to dress appropriately for your location. If you want to shoot at a public location, let your photographer know ahead of time so she can research to see if photographers are allowed to shoot there or permits are required. If you are shooting outdoors, have a backup location in mind for inclement weather.
Your photographer might have some suggestions for locations as well. If you want more than one location, discuss with your photographer so she/he can plan accordingly. Your photographer will want to get optimal lighting at every location so let them know the locations ahead of time. Communicate with your photographer as much as possible on all the details.
SHOT LISTS
Have a shot list prepared. Your photographer might have a different vision than you so you will want to make sure you’re on the same page. Take the time to screenshot poses and shots that you like. Have a list of shots in your phone or written down. Give this to your photographer. Your photographer will appreciate this because she will know exactly what you are looking for.
TURNOVER
Be sure to ask ahead of time how long it will take to get your photos back. Be respectful of your photographer. If her turnover time states on her website 2-3 weeks, don’t tell her you have a deadline and demand them in one week. Editing images can take anywhere from 3-6 hours and more than likely you are not her only client.
PHOTO RELEASE
Ask for a photo release. Depending on the contract, the photographer typically owns the rights to the images, but can provide clients with a photo release—giving them permission to make copies. If you decide to print the images, certain labs require a photo release.
It is important to have great professional pictures of yourself to solidify your brand. Showing up on your social media is how you build relationships with your audience. You want them to feel connected to you and showing your face is the best way to do that. Now you know how to have a successful branding photoshoot. I hope this was helpful for you as you plan your own branded photoshoot!
Feel free to reach out to me anytime for support or to help you walk through planning for your own photoshoot!
