How to Prepare for a Brand Photoshoot for Your Small Business Without Losing Your Cool

17 Apr

Here's a few tips on what you need to consider ahead of your shoot to get the most out of it…

So, you’re ready to take your brand to next level with the power of professional photography? Before you go jumping ahead, let's talk about how to prepare for a feel-good photoshoot without breaking a sweat (or the bank…).

Location, location

First things first, you need to find the perfect backdrop. Whether it's your wonderful workspace, a location house you’ve hired or the great outdoors, make sure to choose a location that reflects your brand's vibe. Remember, we're not just taking photos, we’re telling your story and creating an experience for your customers. Have a little scout of any locations that take your fancy (and anywhere with a lot of natural light helps too!) that will make your business shine brighter than a disco ball. 🪩

Picking your Props

Props can be your secret weapons in creating eye-catching visuals. Think about the things that represent your business, products or services and anything you need to make your biz happen. If you're a baker, grab that whisk girl. Yogis, don’t forget your mat! Illustrator? Set up your space with everything you need to create your products. ✏️

The Right Crew

Team work makes the dream work! So, you’ve found the photographer (ahem, hello 👋🏻) but think about anyone else you may need to get on board to bring your vision to life. Will you be needing models/clients to demonstrate what you do? Do you need to hire someone to do your hair and make up? Is there anyone else who can make your vision come to life? Find people who understand your brand and share your enthusiasm!

Work your Wardrobe

What you wear can make or break the shoot! Think about outfits that match your brand's aesthetic and complement the chosen location but make sure you feel comfortable and confident. I don’t recommend buying something brand new and squeezing into it just because it’s your fave colour. Instead opt for something you’ve had a while, or at least worn a few times.

I would avoid black jumpers as they tend to make you lose your shape and also steer clear of anything with a teeny tiny pattern like a small gingham as it can cause a little bit of an optical illusion in camera.

Posing… without the cringe

Okay, so here's the secret sauce: don't take yourself too seriously. There are lots of poses that don’t really feel like posing that a good photographer can guide you through but remember, the best photos capture your authentic self, so let loose and have fun and the rest will follow!

The brand you’re building

This is one of, if not the most important part, as it’ll weave throughout the whole photoshoot. Consider your values, your mission, your goals. Be sure to send over your brand design, if you have one along with any inspiration images!

Where do you see your brand in one year from now? And how will you get there? This will not only help your photographer have a deeper understanding of your business and be able to create stand-out imagery for you but will also inform how you incorporate your new brand photos within your marketing going forward.

You're now armed with the knowledge to smash that photoshoot! Choose the perfect location, grab your props, assemble your dream team, dress to impress (your clients) and let your authentic self shine through. Remember, the purpose of a photoshoot is not just to capture stunning visuals but to showcase your personality, engage your customers and tell your unique brand story!