So you’ve found your brand photographer. Congrats! If you haven’t, you should check out my tips on how to find an amazing brand photographer. Now it’s time to hit the green GO button on your branding project.

So what do you do next? Well, you should be preparing for your brand photo-shoot, of course! Don’t know how? Don’t worry. In this post I will tell you exactly how to prep for your brand photoshoot and give you a free guide to help you plan, organize, and walk away with fantastic branding photos and content for the next 3-6 months, at least!

Let’s get started!

Your major goal is coming up with a concept for your branding project. This means having a clear vision and setting up an outline of your goals for this brand photoshoot. By brainstorming and preparing these questions ahead of time, you are giving setting yourself up for an easy, flexible, and successful brand photoshoot. Now to the questions!

Where are these photos going to be used?

You should consider whether you need banners for any of your web pages (horizontal photos) or images for social media like Pinterest or Instagram (vertical photos). Or anything and everything in between! Make sure nothing gets left out.

Are you including any design elements?

I recommend starting an inspirational Pinterest board (because it’s the best) and collate everything from location inspiration and lighting to colors and wardrobe ideas. Get your creative juices flowing and decide on what design elements you want to incorporate into your brand photo-shoot.

Are you paying attention to the details?

Have you considered what images are popular and have high engagement right now? It’s probably a good idea to keep your target audience in mind and consider the latest trends that are hip and happening. Be sure to stay true to your brand, and incorporate these popular elements where relevant!

What do you need for the brand photoshoot?

If you are getting hair and makeup done, it’s a great idea to make sure that’s set up and ready to go pre-shoot.  Some brand photoshoots use fun, on-brand backdrops to add design and texture into the images. Thoughtful props are another great element to incorporate in the shoot, too. Try and think of all the details!

What clothes are you planning to wear?

Remember that your images go directly on your web pages or social accounts, so your clothing needs to be cohesive with your branding colors too. Your clothing is another visual element of your message that goes directly to your target audience. Planning a cohesive look will ensure that your message is on point!

Will you need people in the brand photoshoot?

If you are selling products, you may need models or an influencer to use your product in the brand photoshoot. You can call an agency for this, or even ask your friends! Make sure you have those lined up before the shoot, with payment plans, time, and location details in order.

What location is the brand photoshoot?

If the photoshoot is on location, make sure the place fits your brand! Research beforehand. You may even need a permit or to book ahead, dependent on location. Don’t forget this element!

Have you made a list of desired shots?

I don’t know about you, but I love the way certain photo shots are taken when I am scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram. It’s a great idea to save the shot styles you love and make a list. More importantly, is to remember this list when you are in the midst of your photoshoot. Whether it’s the styling of the shot or a certain pose – make a list so you don’t forget! This will help you control the outcome of your shoot.

Have you considered having extra hands on deck?

I recommend thinking ahead and grabbing some extra content from your photo-shoot to use later! What do I mean? Basically, think of having a VA or second photographer to give you some “behind the scenes” footage from your brand photoshoot. These would be great for future social posts and your audience will love feeling as if they were part of the process.

Do you have a backup plan?

You should have a backup plan for everything! If you plan to shoot outdoors, know what to do if it rains. If your models cancel, have friends on call. If you forgot props at home, find or create alternatives or be content to go without. It’s always beneficial to reduce stress when possible, especially when you need everyone’s creative juices flowing!

Are you as excited as I am to start your branding photoshoot? Check out my free branding guide and learn how to prep for your brand photoshoot and create 3-6 months of content!

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