Finding the right location for your branding shoot
Choosing a location for your branding shoot is absolutely key in creating the right first impression for your products or services.
The look and feel you create with your brand imagery should not only align with your business and brand, but also should resonate with the lifestyle choices of your audience. This will help to solidify the relationship you are building with them.
Booking a professional photographer to capture some tailored imagery for your business is an investment, and I would encourage you to really think about the type of location for your branding shoot that would reflect the beating heart of your brand.
It might seem a little overwhelming at first to know where to begin. So I’ve created a list of some of the best options for you to consider. Don’t forget that some locations may carry a cost, so it’s important to factor that in when budgeting for your session. Getting it right can make all the difference in creating some images that will stop your audience in their scrolling tracks!
Home studio / workshop / workspace / your home
You feel at ease in your own environment, and everything you need and use in your business is on hand. Of course not everyone will have a home work space that will reflect the aesthetic that aligns with their business. Or you may have a great, practical space at home but maybe it is dark and cramped or perhaps you’d simply rather keep your home private.
If you don’t feel that your home is the right choice for whatever reason, don’t feel guilty for looking beyond your own front door. Your website is your virtual shop window, and it’s important to project the right look and feel to attract the right kind of client. If you see clients within your home however you may need to have at least some images of the space that you will welcome them into.
Another option worth considering is whether you have a willing friend whose home might be a good fit!
Cost: free
A rented space
If your home studio or office is not the right choice for you, then renting a space could be a good solution. There are so many options, depending on your style and budget. One of the big advantages of hiring a space is that it will be exclusively yours on the day, so if you’re at all nervous about having your photo taken in public this offers peace and quiet.
Co-working spaces
Co-working spaces can produce a variety of looks, from lively and on trend to clean and corporate, from hot desks to private meeting rooms. We would need to ensure that the decor worked with your brand aesthetic, and of course be mindful of others working.
Cost: from £20 per day for a co-working space.
Wedding venues
Wedding venues can vary wildly in both style and price. There are lovely venues to suit every style, from small and intimate to grand and flamboyant! In my experience, it’s worth speaking to a venue that you think could work for you, as they may be prepared to let you use one of their spaces for a lower rate especially if it’s midweek or in the quieter months.
Cost: very variable, depending on the size of room, day of the week and time of year.
Airbnb
An Airbnb property can provide an alternative home from home – but without the cleaning and tidying you might feel you need to do in your own home! You can bring items and props to personalise the house and make it feel your own.
Cost: the cost will vary depending on the style and size of the property. Some may have a two night minimum (so why not make a mini retreat out of it!) whereas some may agree to rent the property for just the day.
Hotel
A hotel lobby or bar area can make for a lovely setting if it matches the tone and style of your brand, whether that’s stylish and luxurious, cool and minimal, cosy and friendly. Rooms and meeting spaces are usually available for an additional charge and these can often be at a lower rate at off peak times.
Cost: free (or the price of a coffee) if using the lobby or lounge /bar.
Cafe
A cafe can create a lovely atmosphere in photos, especially if seated outside – where the natural daylight will invariably be better than the light available indoors. A cafe scene can really suit a more relaxed brand, and can be a great option if you do actually meet clients in such places. Plus there are cafes to suit all styles and tastes!
Cost: free (or perhaps the cost of a drink)
Outside open space
Parks, gardens, nature, pretty, historic Cotswold towns
We are blessed in the Cotswolds to be surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside! If your brand aligns with the outdoors, nature, sustainability or has a natural quality to it, this could be a good consideration for your location. If you don’t want to fully immerse yourself in a field of hay(!), there are plenty of green spaces in more urban environments. The benefit of this is that we may be able to then combine a natural feel with a second town-based location.
Cost: usually free
Quirky outside areas – urban cityscape, farmers market, your local neighbourhood, Botanical Gardens, flower market or stall etc
The beauty of these outdoorsy locations is that a) they’re free and can produce a lots of different ‘looks’, and b) they can add depth to your imagery and introduce a story-telling element to your brand personality. Timing wise, it’s best to avoid the midday hours when the sun is overhead and can cast strong, unflattering shadows. It’s also best to avoid the peak busy periods like lunch times or rush hour if shooting in busy urban areas.
Cost: usually free
I will help you hunt down the best location for your branding shoot as part of my Signature sessions. Learning about your business and brand and creating the aesthetic to reflect that is one of my favourite parts of planning a shoot!
If you already have some ideas for your dream location, I am all ears! I’d love to help you capture some beautiful images to help your brand stand out. Get in touch for a free discovery call – I’d love to hear more about you and where your business is going!
Emma xo
