How to Prepare for a Brand Photo Shoot
A brand photo shoot is a powerful way to showcase your business and personality. Having professional, authentic photos will strengthen your brand assets and ensure a brand designer has the tools to visually tell your story. Professional brand photos helps build credibility, trust, and consistency in your marketing. To get the best results, preparation is key. Use our tips below:
Have a Solid Brand Logo
Before planning the shoot, get clear on your brand identity. Ask yourself:
What message do I want my brand photos to convey?
Who is my ideal audience?
What emotions do I want my photos to evoke?
What colors, textures, and styles represent my brand?
Where will these photos be used? (think website, social media, collateral, business cards and more!)
If you haven’t yet established a brand identity, consider working with our expert brand designer at The Branding Den to create a logo and brand guidelines that define your visual style and color palette. Your images should align with your existing branding to create a cohesive look across all platforms.
Create a Mood Board
Start by creating a mood board with your brand designer (like me, at The Branding Den). A mood board sets the vision for your brand photoshoot, ensuring every shot aligns with your aesthetic, messaging, and goals. It helps:
Define the vibe – Colors, lighting, and visuals all stay on-brand.
Guide the photographer – Clear direction means no guesswork.
Keep it cohesive – Every image works together for a polished brand presence.
Choose the Right Photographer
Look for a photographer whose style aligns with your brand and who has experience with branding shoots. Schedule a consultation to discuss your vision, needs, and expectations. When hiring a photographer, share your mood board and ask some follow up questions:
Can I see samples of other brand photo shoots?
What sets your photography apart?
What idea(s) might you have to capture my business/service?
Do you have a studio or preferred location to take photos in?
How many edited photos come with the package for purchase?
Do you use lighting equipment? Pro Tips: Abbie’s favorite is to use all natural lighting.
Create a Shot List
A shot list keeps your photoshoot organized and ensures you get all the images you need. We recommend including:
Headshots. Think traditional and non-traditional. Do interior or exterior shots better showcase your personality and brand?
Show your workspace. Take photos of your setup, technology you use, office you work from, etc. If you have a virtual office, we recommend renting office space for your professional photo shoot day. Most of these photos will be candid.
Product or service-related images. Capture what your brand represents. Ask friends, family or clients to help stand in as extras (shaking hands, client presentation, meetings).
Behind-the-scenes shots. These style shots create such a buzz on social media and give your clients exposure to what it really looks like behind the curtain!
Orientation of Photos. You’ll need a variety of horizontal (website) and vertical (social media) images. Capture both wide-angle photographs and close up detail shots.
Before/After. If you’re in the transformation space, use consistent angles for the before and after photos.
Location + Wardrobe
The setting of your photoshoot should align with your brand aesthetic. Options include:
A studio for a clean, professional look
Your office or workspace for an authentic feel
An outdoor location for a natural, relaxed vibe
A styled Airbnb, café, or co-working space for lifestyle shots
Your outfits should reflect your brand’s personality and make you feel confident. Keep these tips in mind:
Choose colors that align with your brand palette
Wear solid colors
Layer outfits for versatility (think sweater, blazer jacket, etc).
Bring 2-4 outfit changes for variety
Consider accessories like jewelry, glasses, or props to add personality
Gather Props and Branding Elements
Props help tell your brand story and make images more engaging. Here’s a few of my personal favorites:
Your laptop/computer and equipment. Abbie from The Branding Den loves to bring her MacBook Pro, iPhone, iPad and Bose Headphones.
Branded collateral. Do you have your logo on shirts, notebooks, mugs, or business cards? Bring ‘em!
Lifestyle items that fit your brand. A favorite coffee mug, plant, framed photo that is in your office - anything to reflect some personality.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep and Stay Hydrated
The night before your shoot, prioritize rest so you look refreshed. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive salt, alcohol, or caffeine to reduce puffiness and dehydration. Pack your bags and hit the road to your photo shoot destination feeling refreshed in the morning!
Recap
A brand photo shoot is an investment in your business, so taking the time to prepare will ensure you get the best results. By defining your brand, choosing the right photographer, and planning details in advance, you’ll walk away with stunning, professional images that elevate your brand and connect with your audience. And, at The Branding Den, we love using your professional photos in your marketing collateral!