Branding photos is essential, it makes your brand more approachable, relatable and human. In fact, 82% of consumers trust a company more, and 77 % are more likely to buy from a company if the business uses social media. This isn’t just to say that these photos are for your social media profiles, or that they should all include you, but to point out that people want to connect with other people, relate to others and see the face behind the company.
I know what you’re probably thinking now, and as someone who HATES being in front of the lens, having their photo taken and objectively looks much better in person than in photos, I hear ya! But I’ve also realized how important it is that people know who I am, conquered my fear over time, and had my first set of branded photos taken in August (finally after postponing it for months)! So from one non-supermodel business owner to another, I can assure you that it’s totally doable, not as scary as you think, and totally worth it!
As a professional photographer and a brand strategist myself, I can’t stress enough the importance of having your branding photos taken by a professional photographer. Professional and on brand photos will go a long way in making every part of your visual brand look legit. Your branding photos should reflect who you really are and they should be scroll-stopping. Boring brand media is no longer appealing. Your brand photos will look 100000% better and allowing you to book more clients and sell more products. But, before scheduling and planning for your branding Photoshoot, you need to make sure that you have a brand! (A strong brand strategy to be more precise!).
Photos with humans in them take your products and services from seeming unattainable, conceptual or hypothetical, and bring them into reality as something tangible, achievable and desirable. Your potential clients will be able to see who they would be working with, get a glimpse into the process, and imagine themselves being a part of that experience.
If you are ready to bring your business to the next level or planning your next photoshoot, here are some step by step process that you can follow when planning for your branding photoshoot:
1. Prepare an inspirational mood board – Try using or looking for a Pinterest Moldboard that aligns your style, brand colors, and guidelines so you would know. Your photographer will have an idea of what exactly you want to achieve.
2. Location Scouting – Do your research and check locations that you think will match your brand. Communicate to your photographer for you to be sure that you are on the same page. Look for places that have furniture with a minimalist theme or design, natural light, and airy. Avoid having places with a graffiti wall, vandalism, or has a messy background unless it matches with your brand vibe.
3. Timing is the key for scheduling your photoshoot session – Let’s say your brand theme is more of warm earthy and neutral colors; the perfect timing of the day will help. If you are looking into more golden light colors, I suggest taking your photo shoot at sunset. Going outdoor will give you tremendous and royalty vibes that come directly from sunlight.
Pro tip: Make sure to schedule your photoshoot during weekdays to avoid crowded areas and unleash your natural look without worrying about the audience.
4. Prepare your outfit and props that showcase who you are and what you do-
Alright, we are now on the exciting part of our preparation which is planning your outfits. There is a saying that “always be prepared than ready.” It is correct; in terms of bringing your brand photoshoot outfits, it’s best to get more options (to ensure that you have a variety and it will not look like you only had one session done). If you are into neutral tones and colors, always keep in mind to go with it. You may bring something that resonates with your theme and color palette. It could be light brown, gray, off-white, anything or something that looks neutral, not those vibrant colors like red, orange, and so on.
Another option if your wardrobe doesn’t have something that looks professional, you may place your order online in advance. We know those couriers always not on time so let’s avoid dramas and disappointment before our photo shoot. (You don’t like to look mad in your photos, right?)
And last but not least, if bringing props related to your profession or your business.
Here are some props and devices you can bring if you are a designer:
• ALL YOUR SCREENS (Laptop, iPad, phone)• Planner• Newspaper (You can even make your customized newspaper)• Color palette• Magazine / Books • Confetti• Coffee Mug / Red wine / Pop the Champagne • Pampas• Ballons • Camera • Prepare Moodboard (If you are a photographer or a brand designer)
Start to draft your to-do list as early as you can.
5. Prepare a shot list or have all your reference photos saved on your phone
I know that you start thinking that you might be over-prepared. I understand. Being over-prepared will help your photographers’ job more manageable than running out of ideas during your session. Before your photoshoot schedule, look for a pose inspiration and save them on your mobile. You are aware that this photoshoot will never happen every day, so make sure that you don’t miss those actual shoots that you need.
Create your shot list now, and if you have free time, you can practice right in front of the mirror to see how you will look in that pose.
6. Hire professional artists (photographer, videographer, and make-up artist)
Here’s the exciting part; since all your props, outfits, and ideal posing and places are ready, you can now start to reach out to your favorite photographer, videographer, and make-up artist. Remember that not all photographers and other professionals have the same style. Each of them has its expertise and a target audience. Some artists are into vibrant them, dark palette, and of course, you don’t want to disconnect when your photoshoot happens. Consider doing occasional stalking or checking your ideal photographer’s profile on social media. Ask for their portfolio or any samples of work they have done before.
As a professional photographer myself, I suggest that consistent communication will help you build your connection with them. This practice will help you eliminate your photoshoot’s awkwardness and bring the best out of you.
7. Be authentic, be yourself, and don’t forget to smile!
Before your session, you can practice taking photos of yourself posing in front of the mirror. Some of us are into taking selfies, so this is your advantage if you love taking pictures. Trust and enjoy the process. Showcase your authentic self. Give them your best shot. Own it.
Pro tip: Make sure to schedule your photo shoot at least 1-2 months before your website project.
When you want to build a strong internet presence, getting an attractive website is not sufficient. You need to create images that will represent your brand in the best possible way.
Thankfully, professional photographers are available everywhere, so you can hire one without any trouble.
After all, your target market will fall in love with your business and line of products when they see attractive images.
When people think of your business, they want to think of it as the one with class and style. That’s why a professional branding photoshoot is essential for branding your business.
Here are a few pictures from my recent branding photoshoot.
I’m so excited about my new brand photography and I can’t wait to share these images with you! I hope that now you’re just as excited about getting your own and seeing the results.
Follow me on Instagram to see my photos and if you happen to take some for your business, please tag me so I can see! If you like my content so far, please remember to subscribe to my newsletter to get more information and content like these here.
Photos and Video credit to: @Luxurymomentphotography MUA & Hair stylist: @Boudoirstudiomtl Studio: @mintroomstudios
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