5 Steps to a Successful Branding Photoshoot

BrandingResources

Jul 26

I am so excited that you are considering a branding photoshoot. It is a must-have for any business, personal or commercial brand, large or small.

Successful branding photo shoots always start with lots and lots of behind the scenes planning. My job as a branding photographer is to get to know your brand and your goals for the photo shoot. The more information I can collect, the more successful and productive our time together will be.

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What we cover in the complimentary pre-session calls and meetings:

Brand Discovery
Goals for the Photoshoot
Moodboard & Inspo
Wardrobe & Locations
Shot List

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BRAND DISCOVERY

If you were an invisible person at a party and overheard a conversation between an acquaintance and someone who was working with you, what are the three words you would want them to use to describe you?
What is the end result that someone gets from working with you? In other words, what is the value you provide? What differentiates you?
Why do you care about the work you do? Why does it matter?
When someone interacts with you in some way - visits your website, meets you at an event, hears you speak or works with you - what do you want them to feel?

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GOALS FOR THE PHOTOSHOOT

Are there any specific themes, special events, promotions and seasonal theme that you would like to highlight? Any specific photography ideas that you would like to explore?
What is your goal with having brand imagery created for you? Where will these images ultimately be used? Are there any composition notes to consider? (ie: Negative space for banners + sidebars or specific hero images?)

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INSPIRATION & MOOD BOARD

Do you have a mood board or a brand book that you can send me? What are your brand colors and photo inspiration that can give me an insight into your brand aesthetics?

PROPS, WARDROBE & LOCATIONS

Going back to the themes you outlined, let’s brainstorm what props would go best with each. Some of the best sessions I’ve done included a variety of props so don’t be afraid to include props for each look.
Outfits play a huge part in the success of your branding shoot. Do you have outfits picked out? We should consider at least five various looks for your photo shoot. Tell me more about what you’re thinking of wearing, including accessories.
Many locations require booking or permit in advance. If you are not using your home or my space for the shoot, where would you prefer to shoot?

SHOT LIST

Now that we covered the planning and logistics of the photo session, let’s dive into the specifics of what images we need to get!

Shot list is an important part of the planning process. To start thinking about your shot list, go here and grab a copy of the checklist I usually refer to as we build a shot list. Usually we include the following: