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Written by Kayleigh King, founder of Wildkind Photography and Because She Can Member
The internet is FULL!
Getting noticed is a competitive sport when the online space is filled with others who also do what you do, so having a strong and consistent brand image is crucial to getting noticed and remembered.
A well-executed brand shoot can be a game-changer, helping you convey your brand's personality and values to the people you want to serve. No matter where you are in your business, these steps will help you craft branding images you’re proud to share!
What is Personal Brand Photography and how can it attract your Ideal Clients?
So before we get into the steps, let’s quickly look at what personal brand photography even is.
A brand photoshoot is a fun and creative way to market your brand on your own terms, with relaxed and story-driven documentary-style photography. It's all about showing off what makes your business unique – ahem…you! Personal brand photography captures the heart and soul of your venture, building trust and attracting your ideal clients. So, embrace being authentic, relatable, HUMAN self - it’s what people want to see!
Who is Personal Brand Photography for?
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level then a personal branding photoshoot is for you. Especially if you crave:
Saving time on content creation
Building that client trust
Taking your expert status up a notch
Keeping a consistent web presence
And making sure you stand out in the online crowd
The goal of these shoots is to make you shine as an expert in your field while catching the attention of your dream clients. You get to capture months' worth of content that'll skyrocket your visibility and fast-track you through that "know, like, trust" process we’re always hearing about.
But it’s not just all business. Fun is essential! Natural expressions and reactions are key, so expect music, compliments, jokes, self-love, laughter, and even some dancing if you're up for it!
When you lean into the plan, your gallery will be bursting with personality-packed images that boost your brand, and give you that wild confident feeling when showing up and engaging with your fans.
Sounds great right? Just remember that it looks different for everyone. Some bring the zen in the forest while others bring the noise of the city. It’s all groovy as long as the shoot represents YOU, so here’s how to build a plan that does just that.
How to Plan your Brand Shoot in 7 Steps
1. Finding Brand Shoot Inspiration
Inspiration is the driving force behind any creative endeavor. Start by exploring visual platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram, or mood boards to gather ideas that align with your brand identity. Look for images, colors, styles, and concepts that resonate with your brand's personality and values. Remember, your brand shoot should reflect your unique story and mission.
When reviewing all your pins, make sure you identify WHAT inspires you about each image (and pop them into categories for optimal organization!) - is it the posing, the theme, the location, or the outfit? Knowing what you love about each photo will help you pull those aspects into your shoot.
2. Crafting your Branding Shot-list
A shot-list is your roadmap for the brand shoot, ensuring that you capture all the essential images you need. It acts as a checklist and guide that will direct other aspects of the shoot: the where, what, when, etc. It’s compiled based on your why and your stories.
It should include photos that show off who you are and what you do but also be built around the type of content that you’ll want to share. Think of different emotions you want to highlight as well as what people are asking about your industry. That will ensure you can create striking images that pair well with the future content you’ll create, whether sharing on blogs, social media, or in pitches to the press.
Here are some ideas of the variety needed for business owners:
relaxed headshots
behind the scenes - how do you work
how do you interact with your clients?
Zoom calls, coffee chats, Voxer
visuals to pair with your educational
launch visuals - podcast, course, service
filler content
lifestyle, hobbies & playful
details for filler content
your workspace
tools of the trade
attention grabbers
look ahead at holidays
with your team
mockups
celebration moment
negative space
wide angles
with your product (if you have some)*
wild and free - free movement*
*bonus shots!
3. Picking Locations for your Brand Photoshoot
Selecting suitable locations is crucial to creating a coherent brand story. Consider places that complement your brand's aesthetic and messaging. The location should align with your brand's identity, whether it's an urban setting, a natural landscape, or an indoor studio. Ensure that the locations are easily accessible, aren’t too touristy, and are fairly close to each other.
When exploring options, ask yourself, “Where do I feel called to shoot?” Think of the emotions and energy you want to evoke in your images. For instance, if you want to relay peace and calm, you may want to avoid busy streets, but if you want to speak about finding calm within the chaos, maybe you do want to meditate near a busy street to create the perfect visual to speak about that concept.
I always recommend that clients start with an indoor location - this allows for:
the morning to get ready (your makeup and hair stylists can come to you)
a clean, dry, relaxing start to the shoot
time to settle into the space and get in the zone
a private place to change wardrobe
the separation between you and the daily chores and tasks of work/home
plenty of vignettes throughout the space for lifestyle shots (kitchen, sofa, bed, desk)
a mini work holiday to look forward to!
When booking you’ll want to make sure there are lots of windows and the decor is minimal and lightly styled (unless you’re a maximalist).
4. Photoshoot Hair and Makeup Professionals
Hiring professional hair and makeup artists can make a significant difference in the outcome of your brand shoot. Skilled professionals can enhance your appearance and ensure you look your best throughout the shoot. Their expertise in camera-ready makeup and hairstyling will boost your confidence and create a polished, cohesive look for your brand.
But more important than how you look is how you will FEEL. So if having a professional step in to assist will give you a bounce in your step throughout shoot day, then I would recommend looking into hiring a pro. See if they would be willing to join and keep you touched up through shoot day!
5. What to Wear for Your Brand Shoot
Selecting the right wardrobe is a crucial aspect of your brand shoot. Choose outfits that reflect your brand's color palette and style. Stick to timeless pieces that won't feel outdated quickly. If you have a team, consider having guidelines to maintain a consistent look. It's also essential to have multiple outfit options to add variety to your brand shoot.
Pick outfits that work well with the stories you’re telling - showcasing your fitness routine? Find a workout outfit that matches your branding. Showing us how to bake your favorite vegan protein balls? Grab an apron with your logo.
There are a few things I recommend avoiding as well:
super contrasting patterns - confusing to the eyes and takes the attention away from you
fluorescent and neon colors - casts distracting tones onto your face and surroundings
skin-toned clothing - very challenging to edit your clothes separately from your face
pieces with logos - dates the image and potential copyright issues
too much black - details get lost and outfits start to blend together
off-brand statement T - anything with words should support your brand values & identity
off-brand colors - adding too many colors outside of your brand palette will clash and make your marketing inconsistent
6. What Props to Bring to Your Personal Brand Shoot
Incorporating props can add depth and character to your brand shoot. Select items that are relevant to your brand, are clean, and help tell your story effectively. We don't want them to distract from the main focus. Simplicity and cohesiveness are key when using props.
Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
on-the-go entrepreneur: biz book, travel mug in brand colors, passport, sunglasses
wellness warrior: tasty smoothie, branded color water bottle, journal & pen, fruits
spiritual coach: journal, oracle cards, singing bowl, sage, crystals
travel blogger: neck pillow, luggage, passport, plane/train tickets, guidebook, journal
designer: color swatches, tape measure, material samples, sketchbook
When it comes to branding the space (whether it’s your house or a rental) you’ll want to find the following in patterns and colors that match your brand:
candles
framed photos
books
soft furnishings: throws and cushions
stationery
office supplies
plants and flowers
7. How to Prepare Mentally, Physically, & Entrepreneurially for your Brand Photoshoot
Believe it or not, being photographed is taxing! It takes a lot of energy and prep. Giving yourself time to prepare mentally, physically, and entrepreneurially ensures a successful brand shoot experience.
Mental Preparation: Visualize the desired outcome of your brand shoot and focus on the emotions and energy you want to convey in order to attract the people you dream of working with. Be confident in yourself and your brand's message. Embrace any nerves or jitters as natural parts of the process. Speak to your photographer if needed so they can support you in the best way possible.
Here are some other methods that may help you mentally get into the zone and boost your confidence on camera:
meditating
splurging on that mani/pedi
soaking in the bath
getting a massage
reciting affirmations
practicing positive self-talk
Physical Preparation: Prioritize self-care leading up to the shoot, whatever that may look like to you:
book your hair and makeup appointments
eat energizing meals
drink lots of water
get plenty of extra beauty rest
exercise and stretch to raise your vibrations
practice posing beforehand - use a mirror and download this free posing video guide to help you uncover go-to poses to strike the next time the camera comes out!
Entrepreneurial Preparation: This is more than just understanding the marketing and branding goals of the shoot - you’ll have already done most of this during the planning session.
More importantly this involves creating the space for you to sink fully into the joy and excitement of your shoot without allowing distractions to pull your focus from the goal:
set your out-of-office email for shoot day
turn your phone to DND
delegate tasks and chores to others in the lead-up to your shoot to reduce stress
take a day off following the shoot as you'll be absolutely exhausted - most people need a relaxed recovery day to restore their energy
Final Preparation:
confirm all appointments and rental details (if applicable)
iron all your clothing and pack to reduce wrinkles
compile your empowering playlist
prep your outfits and props in separate bags for each location
pack lots of water and high-energy snacks
silence your notifications
keep your pockets empty
breathe and relax
allow yourself to have FUN!
Your brand shoot is the result of thoughtful planning and leaning into the process. By finding inspiration, crafting a shot list, choosing suitable locations, hiring professionals, selecting the right wardrobe and props, and investing in the prep work, you set yourself up for a successful and impactful brand shoot.
Remember, it's not just about capturing beautiful images; it's about showcasing the heart and soul of your brand (and you) to leave a lasting impression on your audience that builds trust.
Hello! I'm Kayleigh - a compassionate international brand and retreat photographer & mentor for kind humans. From Seattle, based in Liverpool. I'm usually tripping over a half-packed suitcase while trying to not spill my green tea.
I spent the majority of my twenties working on cruise ships around the world - I've got great ideas of where to shoot as a result! I'm a libra which makes decision-making HARD and as for a funny story... Once when photographing a divine feminine retreat in Palma, I raced down the stairs (in a gorgeous dress, camera in tow) to capture a moment and on my way farted very loudly. Everyone heard it. And we couldn't stop laughing. Made for great natural photos though and we became that much closer!
If you'd like to learn more about Kayleigh and her incredible brand photography services, you can connect
