How to Best Prepare for Your Brand Photography Session: A Complete Guide

A brand photography session with Finazzo Fox Creative is an exciting opportunity to showcase your business and create visuals that truly represent your brand. From headshots to team photos to product imagery, this session is about crafting the story you want your audience to see. But how do you prepare to make the most out of your shoot? Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your session is smooth, stress-free, and delivers stunning results.

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1. Decide on Your Location(s)

The location you choose sets the tone for your photos and reflects your brand’s personality. Think about the vibe you want to convey:

• In-Studio: A clean, minimal studio space is perfect for professional headshots or product photography.
• On-Site: Your office, store, or workspace can showcase your brand in action and give customers a peek behind the scenes.
• Outdoor Locations: Parks, urban backdrops, or even outdoor seating areas can add a natural, approachable feel to your images.

Here’s a list of things to consider when planning your photography session location:

Practical Considerations

1. Electricity Availability: Check if there are power outlets for lighting or equipment.
2. Access to Restrooms: Essential for outfit changes or freshening up during the shoot.
3. Weather (if Outdoors): Consider backup plans for rain, wind, or other unexpected weather conditions.
4. Permits or Permissions: Some public or private spaces require permits for photography.
5. Accessibility: Ensure the location is easy to access for you, your team, and ours, especially if we’re bringing lighting and you’re bringing equipment or props!

Aesthetic Considerations

6. Lighting: Look for natural light or assess the need for artificial lighting if the space is dim.
7. Background Options: Consider clean, uncluttered backgrounds that align with your brand’s aesthetic.
8. Colors and Textures: Think about how the location’s tones and textures complement your branding.
9. Seasonality: Outdoor locations may change dramatically depending on the season (e.g., blooming flowers in spring or colorful leaves in fall).

Comfort and Convenience

10. Space for Props and Equipment: Ensure there’s enough room for your props, setups, and gear. If we’re bringing in lights we’ll need a bit of room for that as well!
11. Noise Levels: Avoid noisy areas that may distract from the session or affect audio if recording video.
12. Seating or Staging Areas: Consider spots for resting or setting up equipment between shots.

Brand Alignment

13. On-Brand Vibes: Does the location match your brand’s personality (e.g., modern, rustic, corporate)?
14. Your Workspace: If shooting on-site, make sure it’s clean, organized, and represents your business well.
15. Relevance to Your Story: Choose a location that reflects your brand’s unique narrative (e.g., a coffee shop for a food blogger or an office space for a professional service).

Logistical Details

16. Travel Time: Factor in commute time to and from the location, especially if shooting multiple locations in one session.
17. Parking Availability: Check if there’s adequate parking for everyone involved in the shoot.
18. Wi-Fi Access: If you need to show examples or reference materials online during the shoot.

By considering these factors, you’ll ensure your location not only meets your logistical needs but also enhances the overall look and feel of your photos!

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2. Plan Your Outfits with Intention

Your clothing plays a big role in how your audience perceives you. Choose outfits that reflect your brand and make you feel confident. Here are a few tips:

• Stick to Your Brand Colors: Incorporate colors from your logo or branding palette for a cohesive look.
• Avoid Distracting Patterns: Stick to solids or subtle prints to keep the focus on you, not your clothes.
• Think About Layers: Layers like jackets or cardigans can add dimension and variety to your photos. Necklaces, scarves, and hats switch up the look of your image and are easy to put on and take off!
• Consider Comfort: You’ll be moving around and posing, so make sure you’re comfortable!

If team photos are part of your session, coordinate outfits for a polished, unified appearance. Share a color scheme or dress code with your team ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page.

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3. Know What Types of Images You Need

Before your session, think about the kinds of photos you’ll need for your business. Here are some ideas:

• Headshots: Ideal for your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials.
• Team Photos: Perfect for showcasing your team’s personality and collaboration.
• Candid Shots: Capture you and your team in action – working, brainstorming, or interacting with clients.
• Product or Service Images: Highlight the products or services you offer in a way that grabs attention.
• Lifestyle Photos: Photos of you in relatable, everyday settings can make your brand feel approachable and authentic.

And you know what’s super helpful? Make a list of the specific shots you want and share it with me! This ensures that no essential images are missed. I love it when clients start a Pinterest board of image inspiration and share it with me as well. It’s a great way to be able to visually agree on an overall approach so we’re on the same page going into the session!

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4. Gather Props and Branding Elements

Props can enhance your photos and tell a more detailed story about your brand. Consider bringing:

• Tools of your trade (e.g., a laptop, camera, notebooks).
• Branded items like mugs, pens, or signage.
• Products or packaging for product-based businesses.
• Flowers, books, or other accessories that match your aesthetic.

Thinking about incorporating something but not sure if it makes sense? Let’s chat about it! I’m happy to help give suggestions or challenge your thought process! 

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5. Prepare Your Space (If Shooting On-Site)

If we’re shooting at your office or workspace, make sure it’s camera-ready:

• Declutter: Remove anything that doesn’t align with your brand’s look.
• Add Decor: Incorporate elements like plants, artwork, or branded items to elevate the space.
• Check Lighting: Natural light works best, so open curtains and let the light in!

A clean, inviting space will help the photos reflect professionalism and attention to detail.

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6. Communicate Your Vision

I’m here to be your partner in creating stunning visuals, so don’t be shy about sharing your vision. Knowing more about the vision you have for your brand will help me in understanding how to best tell the story of your brand from a visual point of view. In order to best prepare, I’d love to see:

• Your branding guidelines (colors, fonts, logo).
• Any printed materials that you plan on using the images in.
• Website links where you plan on using the images.
• Social Media channels you plan on pushing the images out to.

The more I understand the “landscape” of your business, the better I can tailor the session to your needs!

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7. Take Care of Yourself Before the Shoot

You’re the star of your brand photography session, so it’s important to feel your best!

• Get Rested: A good night’s sleep will help you feel and look fresh.
• Put Your Best Face Forward: In the couple of weeks leading up to your session consider using a hydrating night cream like YOUTH Advanced Renewal Night Cream and YOUTH Ageless Duo Sculpting Wand for Face and Neck with Smoothing Wand for Eyes to take care of those fine lines and wrinkles on the day of!
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session.
• Pamper Yourself: Consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally for an extra confidence boost.

Feeling good will shine through in your photos and make the session more enjoyable.

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8. Trust the Process and Have Fun!

The most memorable brand photography sessions are the ones where everyone is relaxed and having fun. Trust in my expertise, embrace the experience, and let your personality shine. Authenticity is what resonates most with your audience, so don’t be afraid to let your true self show!

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Final Thoughts

Preparing for a brand photography session may take some planning, but it’s worth it when you see the results – stunning visuals that represent your brand perfectly. With the right preparation and mindset, your photos will be an investment that pays off in stronger connections, increased trust, and more business growth.

Ready to book your session? Let’s create visuals that elevate your brand and tell your story!

xxo, Natalie