Brand photography is a critical piece that connects small businesses to loyal customers. As a photographer serving the Pacific NW, let me tell you what you can expect at a branding photoshoot with me behind the camera. Plus, a little about how to prepare and what to expect after.
Why you need a branding photoshoot
Let me explain why I love these shoots so much. Photos can be the missing link that lets you do a couple of things. One, you can visually show your clients why you rock at your small business. Photos are critical to telling the story of your brand.
Second, a branding photoshoot allows you to speak directly to those you want to work with while possibly repelling those you don’t want to work with in your business.
Wait, what? Repel people? Yes.
It’s just as essential to connect with your ideal client as it is to weed out those who aren’t your best match. Branding photos can show your personality, values, and more that let people align with you and your business on a personal level.
If you’re interested in reading more about personal brand photos and why they matter, check out this blog on What is Personal Brand Photography.
Preparing for your Branding Photo Session
If you live around Spokane, WA, and we get the chance to work together, preparing for your shoot is just as important as taking the photos themselves.
Every branding session, mini and full, starts with a detailed brand questionnaire. It’s important to answer these questions thoughtfully as it helps me craft the best session possible.
Are you worried about your brand style matching my photography? No worries. Part of the brand discovery process is choosing your editing starting point. Do you lean towards light and airy or moodier? Maybe somewhere in between. My editing guide helps you narrow that down, so your photos look like your brand.
Full sessions include a complimentary in-person meeting to go over your questionnaire and answer any questions.
A few days before your shoot, you’ll receive a rough shot list and reminders needed for the session.
Shots you can expect at your branding photoshoot
In general, all sessions include the following-
- Professional headshots, with an additional 2-6 retouched for perfection.
- Process photos that show your clients how you do what you do best.
- Lifestyle photos that show your personality and connect with people on a personal level
- When applicable, finished good shots.
Props at Photoshoots
Props can be a huge part of how we add style and personality to your photos. Bringing your favorite books or magazines is one of my favorite additions. Also, think about coffee cups, your computer, a journal to write in, or any of your favorite things you’d love to share with the world.
Bringing your dog is another one of my favorites. Yes, they count as a prop, I suppose. Plus, they make the entire process less stressful to share space with your best friend with four paws.
Wondering what to wear? Check out What to Wear at Your Personal Brand Photoshoot
What to expect after a branding photoshoot
If we are working together, expect to receive your digital files in 2-4 weeks in an online gallery to download and start using right away. I include photos for you to use in various places, from headshots to images with lots of negative space for text overlays.
Upon receiving your gallery, you’ll also receive a brand use guide. This will go over some customized ideas for using your photos in your marketing.
Also, after receiving your gallery, you’ll be able to select several headshots to have advanced retouched for optimal use. Retouches take about 5 to 7 business days to complete.
There can feel like a lot of moving pieces in a branding shoot. However, having served Spokane small businesses for several years, I will walk you through the process and keep it fun and light.
Are you looking for more resources on brand photography? Here are some of my favorite posts.
4 Types of Personal Branding Photography
Using your brand’s photos on social media
Cheers!
MB – A Spokane branding photographer serving the Pacific NW
P.S. If you like to talk about partnering to elevate your brand, send me a note here.
