Branding Photography Checklist
Smart move! You’ve made the decision to invest in original photography for your brand and it’s going to transform your business! Preparing for your photoshoot is super important. You don’t want to arrive on the day of the shoot and be unprepared, which would waste your time and money. Here’s our Branding Photography Checklist to help you prepare for the big day:
Inspiration Board
Creating an inspo board will help you achieve the vibe you want in your branding photography. Check out your competitors’ websites, cruise Pinterest, scroll Instagram, cut out images from magazines—whatever works for you! This can also help you decide which outfits you want to wear, props to bring, etc. Remember to bring the inspiration board along (or better yet, send it in advance) so you and your photographer can share the same vision.
Wardrobe
What’s your personal brand? A personal brand is how you define yourself, whether you are a company, brand, product, or an individual. It is the foundation of how you see yourself and how you want to come across to others. A big piece of this is your style. Pick outfits for your professional photoshoot that are intentional. What image do you want to present to the world? Also, consider incorporating your brand’s color palette as these images will be used on your website and it all needs to visually flow together.
Prepare at least 5-7 complete outfits and bring extra tops, pants, skirts, and dresses just in case. Photographers are pros and will immediately be able to tell if a color or pattern isn’t going to work. It’s always best to have more options than less.
Undergarments
Well, hello! Be sure to pack a couple of bras and camis that you will need for different outfits. Photoshop can work wonders, but it doesn’t replace good bras or the right underwear for your outfits. I’d recommend sticking to skin tone undergarments. You’d be surprised what seems fine in real life and then is actually transparent in photos. Yikes.
Accessories
Bring statement necklaces, bracelets, bangles, rings, earrings, scarfs, bags, etc. Whatever feels true to you—don’t go overboard if it’s not how you’d actually present yourself in real life. You may not use everything but it’s best to have things to work and layer with. Also, if your brand has any symbols, try to incorporate them into your accessories. For example, if your brand uses a lot of owl imagery, consider an owl broach or necklace.
Hair & Makeup
If you color your hair regularly, be sure to schedule an appointment close to your shoot so it’s looking fresh. Consider having a professional do your makeup. Again, you want to look like YOU, so don’t do anything too crazy, but having professional hair and makeup done can take the photos up a notch. A great method for finding hair and makeup stylists in your area is searching Instagram or asking friends.
Nails
Get a manicure or be sure to have your nails looking fresh—either polished or natural. There’s a big chance your hand will be photographed. It’s all about the little details.
Props
These can make your shoot come to life. Bring your laptop, notebooks, books, desk materials, pretty food items (cupcakes, donuts, bright colored fruits), fresh flowers, mugs you love, blank canvases or signs, or anything else related to your business. An easy way to breathe life into your branding photography is by having some of the items you use daily in them. As with everything, be intentional here. If you have a beat up computer but want pictures of you working, ask a friend with a nice computer if you can borrow theirs. It’s okay to be aspirational!
Snacks & Water
It’s important to stay nourished during the day. You don’t want to get hangry and frustrated halfway through the shoot. Those emotions will show in the photos, trust me. Choose healthy foods that give you energy. Make sure to stay hydrated!
Positive Mindset
This should be fun! As mentioned, how you’re feeling internally can come across in your photos. Go into full force self-care mode. Set aside time to move your body in a way that feels good. Relax, meditate, and think about how magical your photoshoot will be. Set an intention to be the confident, approachable, creative, and brilliant woman that you are.
Smile
You’re doing great :) The power of storytelling through your professional photoshoot will help you make a deeper connection with your audience. You got this!
