PREPARing FOR YOUR BRANDing or portrait photography SHOOT
So you’ve locked in a date for your branding or portrait shoot, and now it’s time to start planning!
There are a few things to think about and prepare ahead of your shoot, from diving into your brand identity, to finding the right look and location.
Here are my top tips to make sure you get the most out of your time with me, whilst keeping you and your brand at the heart of it all…
Define your brand to inform your brand shoot
Knowing who you are and why you do what you do is powerful. You pour yourself into everything you do, and the work you do or create is personal, values driven and incredibly important to you.
Establishing your why, your vision, and your mission is key to making sure your shoot connects to the heart of your brand, so that you and your photographer can co-create images that speak to your ideal client truthfully and authentically.
To do: get clear on your why! Take some time ahead of your shoot to deep dive into your brand’s identity and who you want to connect with. This can feel big and a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re at the start of your journey, so I’ll share my planning resources with you to inspire you and help you to identify what shots you need to celebrate your work and connect with your audience.
Feel into the aesthetic of your branding and portrait shoot
Once you have defined your goals you can start to piece together how that all translates into your shoot. A great way of doing this is creating a mood board that you can share with me. Think about colours, ideas, music, words and feelings that resonate, locations that you feel drawn to, and outfits, props and products that communicate your message.
To do:
Get pinning! Create a Pinterest board and share it with your photographer
Think about what outfits you’ll feel your best, most comfortable and authentic self in (no need for shopping trips! I’m 100% sure you already have items that make you feel like YOU when you wear them!)
Make a list of any products we’ll be photographing
If it feels right for you, book someone to do your hair & make up
Create a Spotify playlist to set the mood of your shoot (this can also help you to relax into things on the day!)
Choose the location for your branding shoot
Now it’s time to find the location for your shoot! Think about what places would best reflect you and your brand: indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both? Out on the city streets or wild in nature?
Another option is to book a beautiful AirBnB that aligns with your desired aesthetic, or to shoot in your home or studio.
Tip: The key thing is to choose a location that speaks to you. Somewhere that inspires you and feels like an extension of your brand’s message.
Trust the process
Whilst there are some necessary preparations that need to happen ahead of your branding shoot, this is a gentle reminder not to overplan or overthink every last detail.
Personal branding photography is all about creating a connection between you, your offerings and the people who you want to work with. I am there to support you all of the way, from the planning process to capturing the spark of authenticity that will show the world what you do.
Remember: no one is you, and that is your power. Relax and lean into who you are and what you do, and let me do the rest! Together we will create images that feel truly aligned to you & your brand.
If you’d like to book me for your branding or portrait photography in Birmingham, the Midlands or across the UK get in touch here.