How to Prepare for your Next Branding Shoot!

Set yourself up for success with my top 10 tips for your next Brand Photo Shoot!

Preparing ahead for a branding photo shoot is key to ensure we meet your expectations and create the gallery of images you will actually want to use and get excited to post!

1. Define Your Brand

First things first, you need to be able to express who you are and what your brand is all about. I will send you a questionnaire prior to your shoot to help define it. Without a clear understanding of who you are and what you 'sell', your ideal customers and clients won’t either.

2. Choosing the Right Location

The location must vibe with your brand, and there are so many important factors to consider such as lighting, scenery, and relevance to your brand. Are you a realtor? Let’s consider renting an Airbnb or borrowing a beautiful show home. We will also include some outside at the beach or popular tourist locations to feature the new city your clients are moving to. Do you sell a product? Consider your studio, workspace, or again, renting an Airbnb with lots of beautiful natural light to feature you and how you create your amazing products.

3. Outfits and Props

Consider outfits and props that align with your brand colors, style, and personality. Ensure they complement each other and enhance your brand story. I always suggest wearing outfits and shoes that make you feel your best! You want to feel the most confident for the photoshoot day, so a new style of dress or brand new heels that you wouldn’t normally wear may not align with creating a comfortable look.

4. Hair & Makeup

It’s always nice to feel your best, and again, you want to feel like yourself but Elevated! Book a blowout at your hairdresser and even make up with a MUA to enhance your look. I suggest natural hair and makeup but elevated! A little more makeup than day-to-day will look best on camera. But, it’s not the time to try something drastically new or different just in case you aren’t happy with the look and you won’t have much time on shoot day to make the changes. *Don’t forget your nails!

5. Practice Posing

Get comfortable in front of the camera by practicing different poses and expressions that convey your brand's message and personality in the bathroom mirror or set up your phone for some selfies.

6. Lighting and Time of Day

We must keep in mind the light and time of day when booking your shoot. I find 10 am to be a great time to start as it still gives you time to prepare in the morning and arrive at your shoot feeling fresh!

7. Phone Call Consultation prior to

A quick phone call to talk things out is always helpful before your shoot. It’s a great way to ask questions and go over your expectations and requirements for your shoot and final gallery of images.

8. Props

Prepare a few important props that align with your brand. A laptop, favorite mug, notebook, and pen are always a great start. Realtor? Bring a ‘SOLD’ sign, a key to convey your brand message.

9. A Good Sleep

Don’t dismiss the importance of the day before your shoot. Avoid alcohol, drink lots of water the day before. Get a good night's sleep and leave the worrying and preparations to me!

10. HAVE FUN!

Once you arrive at your shoot, it’s time to take a deep breath, crank the music, and just go for it! We prepared ahead of time, so this is the fun part! Smile and enjoy!