9 Simple Steps to Planning a Successful Brand Photoshoot

So much planning goes into crafting a branding photoshoot that will result in a personality-packed gallery that attracts.

As a personal brand photographer, it's important to go over these 9 elements with your client while planning their brand shoot. The key here is to create a comprehensive, step-by-step planning guide to help your client show up as prepared as possible.

1. Plan the photoshoot look

Hair. Wardrobe. Makeup. Whether or not it's your client's "thing" to have a pro do their hair and makeup, it's no secret that looking good will help them feel good. So, I suggest recommending that they supplement their shoot by investing in professionals who can help them look (and feel) their best. Consulting with a stylist is a great idea, as they will help find clothing that enhances your client's beauty and confidence.

2. Find the right photoshoot locations

Lighting. Space. Layout. It's important to educate your client on the photography aspects they should consider when choosing their shoot spaces. I have my clients look for great natural light, plenty of space so I can back up to shoot wide images, and a layout that benefits our shoot plan.

3. Craft a strategic shoot plan

What is your client's brand message? Where will the photos be used? What's the overall feel of the brand shoot? Planning is an ESSENTIAL step in the photoshoot process. As a brand photographer, it's important to work with your client to craft a shoot (and experience) that will have a positive impact on their business. Your job is to take photos with the right dimensions, imagery, and feel to tell their story and attract their target audience. And the best way to do that is to work out a detailed plan with your client in advance.

4. Find photoshoot props that tell the story

Colors. Brand Words. Textures. Props are really fun to plan, and I would generally advise you to have your client keep it simple. Everything they include should have a purpose. The colors should complement their branding, anything with words should align with what they stand for, and keep an eye out for fun textures that mix in well! I always recommend plenty of houseplants and/or dried or fresh flowers to add a pop of color!

5. Take steps to thoroughly prepare for the photoshoot

Mentally. Physically. Properly Packed. Yes, planning is essential, but prep is KEY. Have your client take the time to delegate work tasks, set their email to "out of office," and get themselves in the zone. Meditations and visualizations can help them manifest the crap of their week.

Remind them that this is an investment in their business, so they should give it their all. I like to recommend my clients schedule a mani-pedi the day before and make SURE they've packed efficiently. I would suggest a separate bag for each location!

6. Create an empowering photoshoot playlist

Powerful. Let go. Be in the moment. How good is music to induce a mood? I recommend you have your client bring a playlist to get them out of their head and into the groove. You want them to feel powerful and to let go of that imposter syndrome. Remind them to be in the moment, soak it up, shake your booty, and enjoy!

7. Encourage pre-photoshoot rest

Sleep. Nourish. Treat. Brand shoots require a lot of energy and presence from everyone involved, so it's really important to remind your client to carve out time to rest and treat themselves in the time leading up to their shoot. This will allow them to be refreshed and "in the zone" when it's go time!

8. Set the photoshoot intention

Want vs. need. Presence. Dedication. Intention is an important part of the process. When your client comes to you with a need vs. want mindset, there's an energetic shift. The desire, presence, and dedication to creating impactful photos can be seen in the final product when they really commit to the intention and goal of their shoot. It's your job to point them in the right direction.

9. Focus on authenticity

Being Truthful. Expressing Genuine Emotions. Having Fun. Nobody wants to look at or be seen in overly posed, rigid photos. Those types of images can stay in the past where they belong. Getting your clients to express genuine emotions and have a good time will ensure that authenticity is coming across in their photos. Encourage your client to dance, play, laugh, feel. (it helps when you lead the way by example!)

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