Branding Shoot Prep
Here are the some things to think about before your shoot day!
Hair & Make-up
Do you need to get your hair and make-up done ahead of time? This is a question I get asked a lot. Many photographers will suggest getting all done up, but I am in a different camp. I wan’t brands to showcase their authentic selves. So, get your hair and make up done if it will help you feel like your best self. DO NOT get your hair and make-up done if, like me, you NEVER wear make-up in real life. You want your branding photos to look like YOU. Sure, add some extra mascara, and maybe blow dry your hair, but focus on looking like your best you. Not someone else.
Clothing
Stay true to you, and the brand.
We often associate head shots with power suits, but that only makes sense if you wear power suits to your job! Do you teach yoga? Then obviously wear your yoga gear. Do you work from home in your jammies? Maybe throw on some jeans and a nice shirt. Yes, you should be a bit more polished, but always think about kiicking it up just a knotch, not to a whole other level. Do you wear all black always? Great, feel free to wear black. Do you wear baseball caps? That’s great too! Just bring it for a few shots, not the whole time.
You will hear no hard and fast rules from me about wardrobe, but you should stay on brand!
Are you your own brand? Or are you representing a brand?
This is an important distinction that needs to be made.
Mary is her brand. She is a solo-prenuer working from home. She did some shots in running clothes, as well as some business casual attire.
Here, we see employees of a Non-Profit. They are NOT the brand.
They are representing a larger organization and need to showcase professionalism, but can also bring in some of their own style and personality.
When choosing your outfit, brand coloring > seasonal and trendy.
For example, your brand is bright, white, clean colors. Your shoot is in October. Choose something bright and white over chunky fall sweaters in rich colors.
Your tools
What do you use to work every day? This really varies depending on profession, but this could be anything from a laptop for a business coach, teacups for an owner of a tea company, or all your crafting craftiness!
Whatever your “props” are, make sure they are ready. Wiped down, cleaned up, and present for your shoot.
When you are planning out your content, you want to not only have photos of yourself, but of your tools. This is great content that will look beautiful on an Instagram feed and is perfect for blog posts with DIY tips and tricks etc.
Personal Touches
What is important to you? What is something that is personal and special for you? Do you LOVE coffee? Grab your favorite mug! Are you a new mom? Throw some baby toys in with those tools! Clients and followers want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to get personal. Authenticity wins!
