1. Reconnect with your brand

First being clear about your brand's purpose. What you serve and provide.



• How do you want to come across?
• What are your values?
• How would you describe your brand in three words?

This should be the first step as it'll influence most of the following ones, too.

2. Be clear on the purpose of the shoot and prepare a shot list

The worst thing that could happen at a branding session is investing in a shoot and then realizing you forgot about that specific photo you needed for that new campaign or post you wanted!

So, do a proper brainstorm, and together we will figure out exactly what type of pictures you need:

• Where will you use them specifically?
• Will you need to add text to some of them? (This will influence the background, pose and orientation)
• Are you after versatile photos with a monochrome background or trying to tell a story through some lifestyle and work shots?
• What poses and expressions would complement your written copy?
• Will that specific shot need to be landscape or portrait?

Basically, don't leave it at "I need new photos." Together we will compile a detailed shot list to avoid that dreadful initial scenario!

3. Pick the right outfits and colors

I always tell my clients to bring 3-5 outfits so they can achieve a variety of looks and avoid a repetitive feel. Not just any outfits, though:

• Choose clothes that include your brand colors and that would pop against your preferred background.
• Wear what you'd meet your ideal clients in. After all, your photos will be meeting them virtually 24/7.
• Prioritize solid colors to obtain more versatile photos, and choose bold prints over small details that wouldn't really show up on camera.
• Avoid large or noticeable logos.
• Don't forget about accessories.

4. Choose some relevant props and a location that's on brand

You'll be the star of the show, but what's around you matters, too. You can't afford to leave it to chance.

To reinforce your brand, run an inventory of all the props you'll need for specific shots. Discuss with me too because different studios may have different props to use.

As for lifestyle pictures, spend some time looking for a location that emphasizes your brand values and the vibe you want to give off. Is it an informal coffee shop? An outdoor setting that highlights your connection to nature? Your office with a view of the city to reinforce that authoritative vibe?

Once again, take colors into consideration, too. Does that background work well with your outfits and brand palette, or would they run the risk of blending together?

5. Put your best self forward (but stay authentic)

My recommended photoshoot mindset? Look your best but in a way that wouldn't shock your audience if they were to bump into you on the street. Definitely plan your hair and, if relevant, makeup. You could also have your nails done before the shoot, and how about a facial to pamper yourself and guarantee the best skin?

Hey, any excuse I get to go pamper myself I will, so here you go!

6. Relax and get some rest

Trust me: You don't want to show up all wired and on edge after a massive caffeine fix.

For the entire week leading up to your shoot, try and get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water. That way, your skin will be glowing, you'll be full of energy and you won't start stressing over those new bags under your eyes.

RECAP

#1 - We’ll spend 1-2 hours shooting your session. You’ll get two locations, 3-5 outfits, and at least 40 brand images (usually many more)

#2 - Then, I’ll help create a strategy with you to use your photos. We can create a plan to create the marketing materials that will best serve your business. I like to use the planning software LATER.

For most of my clients, this means scheduling your photos into a 30-60 day content calendar complete with on-brand graphics and captions.