Your brand is you, the essence of your work and the message you want to convey. A branding photography session translated that essence into visuals that capture attention and give people an impression of who you are. With so much riding on those photos, it’s natural to feel stressed! Help put the fears aside with these five key ways to prepare for your branding session and ensure those final images radiate confidence and authenticity.
1. Know Your Brand Identity – Inside & Out
Before you ever step in front of the camera, take a deep dive into your brand’s core identity. What are your values, mission, and target audience? Think about the overall feeling you want your brand to evoke – is it energetic, sophisticated, approachable? Having a clear vision will guide everything from your clothing choices to the poses you strike. The photographer will not define your brand for you, but we’ll focus on expressing your brand identity through your imagery.
2. Pinterest Power – Create a Mood Board
Visual inspiration in your friend! When you see images that capture the aesthetic you envision for your brand – save them. Scour magazines and Pinterest – look for colors, locations, poses, outfits that resonate with your vision. Share your inspirations with your photographer. It makes for a fantastic communication tool to ensure you’re both on the same page. Good communication with your photographer cannot be emphasized enough! Be sure to note exactly what you like about each inspiration image you share.
3. Plan Your Outfits – Comfort is Key
Your clothing choices should be an extension of your brand identity, but comfort is crucial. You want to feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera, so avoid anything too restrictive or unfamiliar. We usually recommend dressing as you would when going to meet your best client or as if you were planning to give a presentation to a group of industry colleagues. Think about the message you want your clothes to convey about you – professional, creative, or casual. Lay out a few options beforehand so you have time to experiment and find the perfect look.
4. Prep Like a Pro – Hair, Makeup, and the Power of Props
Discuss hair and makeup options with your photographer in advance. The goal is to achieve a polished yet natural look that complements your brand aesthetic. Often times a hair & makeup stylist is not necessary as we can polish up many details in post-production. For some extra personality, consider incorporating props that reflect your work or hobbies. A musician might hold their guitar, while a writer could be surrounded by books – don’t be afraid to get creative!
5. Relax, Breathe, and Trust the Process
The day of your session has arrived! Take a deep breath, and remember your photographer is there to guide you. Don’t be afraid to express your ideas and ask questions. Most importantly, have fun with it! The more relaxed and confident you feel, the more your genuine personality will shine through in the final images.
Bonus Tip: Get a good night’s sleep before your session, and drink plenty of water. Feeling well-rested will show in your eyes and contribute to your overall confidence in-camera.
Just by following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a branding session that captures the essence of you and your brand. Remember, it’s a collaborative effort so communicate openly with your photographer, trust their expertise, and let your brand personality shine!
