How to Prepare for Branding Photos as a Photographer

In today’s visually-driven world, where attention spans are shorter than ever, establishing a strong brand presence is crucial for any business. And what better way to make a lasting impression than through carefully curated branding photos? These images have the power to convey your brand’s personality, values, and unique offerings, capturing the attention and hearts of your target audience.

In this blog, I’ll share my experience with my most recent brand photo shoot as a photographer. I will guide you through essential steps to help you prepare for a successful branding photoshoot that captures the essence of your business.

Give yourself time to plan your branding photos

A well-executed branding photoshoot has the power to elevate your photography business and create a lasting impression on your target audience, in my case, other photographers. However, proper preparation ensures that your photos align with your brand identity and effectively communicate your message. You want to consider the message you want to convey and brainstorm ideas that align with your brand. As a photographer, this is pretty easy for us to do because we are typically the visionary for our clients.

As I began to plan my brand photos for my new photography education site, I needed to make sure I understood what I wanted the messaging to be. I wanted to show people my fun, energetic, and empowering personality and showcase my inner badass as a full-time photographer. Once I nailed down the vision and messaging, my team and I created a mood board with visual references, including colors, props, locations, and poses that reflect my brand aesthetic. This helped ensure the final images are cohesive and represent Angelica Pompy Education as I wanted it to.

Hire the right team to execute your vision

Collaborating with the right team of professionals is crucial for a successful branding photoshoot. Because we have experience as a photographer, sometimes we have thought of DIY for your own branding photos. I’m here to tell you DON’T do it! Hire professionals!

Start by hiring a professional photographer who understands your brand and has experience with branding photography. I even recommend hiring a branding videographer to tag along so you can get some video content simultaneously. When hiring a branding photographer, they will know the variety of photos needed for marketing collateral, your website, and social media. Discuss your vision, share your mood board, and ensure they can bring your ideas to life.

Having professional makeup and hair is a must for your branding photos. We give our clients this advice to do so we should do the same! While it may seem like an additional expense, investing in professional hair and makeup for your branding photos can make a world of difference. Professional artists are well-versed in creating camera-ready looks that withstand the demands of photography. They use high-quality products, techniques, and knowledge of lighting to ensure that your hair and makeup appear flawless and photogenic, even in challenging shooting conditions. This expertise translates into polished and professional images that effectively represent your brand.

Things to do the night before your branding session

The night before your photoshoot, take time to ensure you can fully prepare for branding photos. You want to be rested and ready to shine in front of the camera. Taking the necessary steps to set yourself up for success will help you feel confident and ensure that the entire process goes smoothly. Here are 4 things I do the night before a branding session.

1. Plan Your Outfits and Accessories

Do yourself a favor – prepare for branding photos the night before by laying out your outfits. Ensure your outfits are clean, pressed, and in good condition. Don’t forget to plan accessories, shoes, and any props you need. Organizing your wardrobe the night before will save time and eliminate unnecessary stress on the shoot day.

2. Prepare Your Skin and Hair

Aim to have a fresh and radiant look for your branding photos. Take care of your skin by cleansing and moisturizing it thoroughly. Avoid using any new skincare products that may cause irritation or breakouts. If necessary, exfoliate gently to ensure a smooth canvas for makeup application. Additionally, wash and condition your hair, following your regular routine. Avoid any drastic changes or experiments with new hairstyles right before the shoot.

3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Rest is the best way to prepare for branding photos, hands down! Adequate rest is essential to look and feel your best during the photoshoot. Aim for a full night’s sleep to ensure you wake up feeling refreshed and energized. Avoid consuming caffeine or engaging in activities that may interfere with your sleep quality. If you have trouble sleeping due to pre-shoot excitement, try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind and promote restful sleep.

4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Proper hydration and nutrition are key to looking and feeling your best on the day of your branding photoshoot. Drink plenty of water the night before to keep your skin hydrated and radiant. Opt for a balanced meal with lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid consuming excessive alcohol or eating foods that may cause bloating or discomfort.

As a Photographer, Your Brand Photos Matter

Branding photos are not mere images; they are powerful tools that help you convey your brand’s identity, values, and story. Investing in high-quality visuals can create a lasting impact, establish trust, and forge emotional connections with your audience. Remember, in a world saturated with information; it’s the visuals that have the potential to make your brand unforgettable. So, embrace the power of branding photos and watch as your business soars to new heights.

Shout out to my vendor team for making my branding shoot dream a reality!