Your brand is unique. It reflects your tastes, your mission, and your point of view. It’s vital to highlight what makes you special in any way you can, and a great way to do that is through beautiful, bespoke, authentic brand photography. What is brand photography? It’s a collection of images capturing your brand’s essence that can be used everywhere your brand needs to be: your site, your retail space, your social channels, your advertising – the list goes on and on. Since these images will often be the introduction most potential customers will have to your brand, it’s important to do it right.
Don’t worry! I’ve got your back! I’ve put together some key points to consider as you plan your brand photography session. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll soon have a set of gorgeous, impactful photos in hand, ready to wow the world.
Choose the Right Photographer
The most important step! No matter what the shoot (from brand photos to family portraits), it all starts with the right photographer. So do a little research! Pick a photographer who specializes in this field. Check out their work. Read their reviews on multiple sites, since their own website MIGHT be a little biased. Don’t be afraid to send a note to one of their clients to get honest feedback. A little elbow grease in the beginning can save you tears at the end.
Plan Your Outfits Carefully
What you wear will speak volumes; it communicates tone, taste, and even price point. Always remember that these clothes represent your brand, not necessarily you in your private life. You might be a yoga pants girl at home, but that might not be the best message for your legal firm. So think about how you want your brand to be perceived and dress the part. Don’t forget to try them on beforehand and make sure they fit (alter them if they don’t)! And avoid logos you don’t own; that can limit where your photos can be shown.
Pay Attention to Hair and Makeup
You’re beautiful! We both know it. But the right hair and makeup never hurts, right? Having a makeup artist/hairstylist on set not only helps you look your best, it gives you someone to touch you up as you go and keep those pesky hairs in check. Pick someone who will make you the best version of yourself, not turn you into someone else entirely. Natural is usually best, though always keep your brand image in mind. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, dial it back. Great hair and makeup are supposed to make you feel like your best self, not like an imposter.
Practice Your Poses
Even though I’ve been a photographer for a long time, I still feel a little awkward when I get my own photos taken. It takes practice to feel comfortable in front of the camera. Use the mirror to try out different poses, expressions, and silhouettes. And don’t obsess about every imperfection! Communicate with the photographer about what you feel good about and not so good about, so they can work with you to show off your best side.
Choose the Right Location
It’s not all about you, ok? 🙂 Where you shoot your photos will be a huge part of your brand identity. Whether it’s in an elegant studio, outdoors by an idyllic lake, or behind the counter of your adorable shop, your location will set the mood and inform the style of your photos. Collaborate with your photographer on what vibe will work best for your brand, and don’t be afraid to add a decorator to the team to achieve that perfect look.
Edit Your Photos Wisely
Ok, you’ve posed your heart out and now you’re looking at dozens of photos and you have to choose. What should you keep in mind? People often forget that taking a photo is only part of the process. Work with the photographer to add the right color correction, tints, and overlays that really bring your brand to life. Don’t focus on just you; it’s tempting to pick the shots where your nose was just the right angle, but remember the photographer has a bunch of tricks up their sleeves to fix all kinds of problems. Instead, think about what the consumer will see and pick the shots that best communicate what you’re all about.
I hope this helps you on your journey to fantastic brand photos. I’m happy to give you more tips as I’m photographing your beautiful newborn (sorry, had to stick in one plug!). Good luck and remember to stay true to yourself!
