Wondering how best to prepare for your Branding session that’s coming up? I know it can be daunting to be in front of the camera. But I always aim to make my sessions as relaxed and as comfortable as I can. The following tips will help you to be organised and get the most out of your session. And once you feel organised and in control, you will feel calmer and more confident!
-
Think about ‘why’ are you doing this and ‘who’ is it for
Get clear on why you want some new images for your website or socials. What do you want to get out of the session? Do you want to refresh your ‘About Me’ page? Do you want some fresh content for the next few months’ social media posts? Is your business moving in a new direction? Perhaps you have a new product or service to offer? On booking a branding session with me, I send my clients a Branding Questionnaire to explore their vision and their brand in more detail. This helps clarify my client’s vision, and enables us to get the most out of our session together.
-
Create an inspiration board
Create a secret Pinterest board and start collating images that inspire you, that you relate to or that simply resonate with you in some way. You can share this board with your photographer and use it to start building your own brand session. It will help you define your own ideas and will help your photographer to understand your vision for the shoot.
-
Make a shot list
Are there any specific shots you’d like to get? Perhaps a proper headshot or your new product range. Or a clear shot of your workspace. Make a list and it’ll get done!
-
Plan your wardrobe
A couple of weeks before your session, start planning your wardrobe. If you can get a couple of outfit changes in, you will get more longevity out of your photos. A variety of look also helps your photos avoid looking the same. Think about layers too – removing your cardi part way through is a clever way to get even more variety into your images!
-
Think about props as well as location
Props can be used to help get your personality across and make you easier to relate to. For example, favourite mug? Provided that it works with your brand incorporate it into your shoot. Favourite scarf? Weave it into your outfit. Think about a location that reflects your business. If you are an artist or a florist for example, it might be better to hold your session in your own studio with your kit to hand. If your home office isn’t quite the image you’d like to get across though, let’s start the session at your favourite cafe instead.
-
Look after yourself
On the morning of your session give yourself time to get ready without feeling rushed. Book a blow dry with your trusted hairdresser. Have a manicure a day or two before. Put on your favourite playlist and get yourself in a good head space! Do something that lifts your confidence. Going in front of the camera can be nerve-wracking but your business deserves to shine and I’m here to help you do just that!
If you’d like to explore the idea of a personal branding photography session for you and your business contact me for an informal chat! You can see more examples of my Branding photography here.
