Photoshoots 101: How to Prep for a Brand Photoshoot

How do you prepare for a photoshoot? The short and simple answer is “with intention”.

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How do you prepare for a photoshoot? The short and simple answer is “with intention”. Heike Martin, professional brand photographer says that her conversations with clients often start like this: “I want images that make me look approachable and fun but also professional” or “I’m in the middle of re-doing my website and I am overwhelmed with trying to figure out what images to use”. Sound familiar?

Prepping for a Brand Photoshoot starts with Planning

Planning with intention lays the groundwork for a successful photo session. More importantly, it means a return on your investment because now your irresistible brand becomes a magnet for attracting your dream clients.

So how do you go from confusion about what you want to a well-planned out roadmap to success? No matter what industry you are in, a well-prepared Brand Photo Shoot will ensure that you will receive the best images for your website, social media, and marketing materials.

Finding the right photographer is key:

  • Book a photographer who understands branding and marketing. You want to see consistent quality work on their website and social media platforms that showcases a variety of industries. 
  • Schedule hair and makeup so you will look and feel your best.
  • Create a brand mood board and share with your photographer

Together with your Brand Photographer you will:

  • Dig deep and share your brand story, business goals and brand personality. Your photographer wants and needs to fully understand who you are. 
  • Create a shot list including headshots, details, work-with-me, lifestyle and signature photos. All of these images will be taken with your marketing needs in mind so that you can easily post to your favorite social media platforms as well as have banners ready for your website.
  • Decide on best locations to tell your story. This can be in the studio, at your place of business, your favorite café or an Airbnb to give you the ambience you are looking for.
  • What props will help tell your story? Make a list and start collecting them to be ready and available at your session. From tools of the trade to your favorite mug or inspirational sculpture. 
  • Let’s not forget styling. Choosing clothes that fit well and are on-brand in style and color will have a great impact on how confident you will look and feel. It makes all the difference.

The Week of your Brand Photo Shoot:

  • Go over your lists again to make sure you have all of your clothes, jewelry and accessories, as well as props.
  • Indulge in a facial and manicure several days before your session.
  • Get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water to help you look fresh and radiant
  • Connect with your photographer with any lingering questions before your session.

Your Brand Photo Session is finally here!

Wake up with a huge smile on your face. This is YOUR day. You have planned for it well. Enjoy it to the fullest. 

It’s time to unleash your brand story with a library full of on-brand images that will captivate your audience and help you show up online with consistency and ease.

Heike Martin

Heike Martin is a personal branding and headshot photographer based in Mount Joy, PA. Her signature approach helps clients feel relaxed and confident as they step in front of the camera. Heike holds her clients’ fears so they can show up and shine as their most confident selves and use their unique brand images to grow their online visibility online and level-up in their business. She works with small business owners, coaches, authors, speakers, artists and influencers in Pennsylvania and beyond providing them with a fun, relaxed and professional atmosphere. 

280 S. Oak St Manheim, PA 17545 | 717-342-3369 | heikemartinphotography.com