7 Tips to Give Your Clients on Preparing Their Space for a Brand Photoshoot
Help your brand photography clients ensure their shoot space is photo-ready with these 7 easy steps!
If you're planning a shoot with a client, then you've likely spoken about the importance of renting a dedicated space for their shoot rather than doing it in their home. There are loads of reasons for this, but there are exceptions.
If you have agreed that their home will work, you'll need to make sure it comes across as professional and on brand. Sure, we all love a dose of realism, but in a brand shoot, it's best if we start with a clean and professional space and add in those "behind the scenes" elements as we need them.
Here are 7 tips you can give your clients to help them prepare their space for a brand shoot that will help them stand out in their market:
1. great lighting
Using natural light over artificial is my preferred way to shoot. But, whether you are a natural or artificial light photographer, you know how important it is to have a handle on the lighting situation before you shoot. Be sure to chat with your clients about the direction of their windows and the angle of the sun during your set shoot time so you can plan accordingly.
2. tidy up and hide the distractions
Have your clients de-clutter the areas around their house (office, studio, garden, etc.) where you will be shooting. These will be the areas that have the best light.
If they don't want it in the picture, have them stow it away. You're not going for a sterile look, though, so remind them not to clear everything out. Incorporating things from their house is endearing, so a simple freshening-up will do. The key is to make sure nothing is dirty or out of place.
3. tools of the trade
Talk to your clients about what kind of props will complement the stories you're telling. These could be laptops, pens, journals—anything they need to make their business run. Props are a great way to bring attention to certain aspects of their business and an opportunity to splash their brand colors into their photos. One fun idea is to write witty or relevant notes on Post-its in colors that fit their brand. Another is to include little things like a favorite coffee mug. Whatever will show off their personality and speak to their brand is best.
4. grab some greenery
A fresh bouquet or houseplants throughout the space can help give the images a fresh and welcoming look and add pops of color. They also help to add textures to a flatlay. If your client isn't into flowers, have them consider a bouquet of greenery such as eucalyptus and ferns. If they have allergies, there are a number of dried flower florists who do a fantastic job! Adding plants to a shot is also a great hack for hiding sockets or chipped paint.
5. pop the kettle on
We all work with drinks nearby. Have your client throw theirs into a fun or sassy mug to make a statement. Having them wrap their hands around a mug is a super useful tool when they don't know what to do with their hands.
6. get busy
Have them get to work, whether it's checking emails, writing in their journal, or painting a masterpiece. Authentic working shots allow you as the photographer to capture behind-the-scenes stories and that's what us noseys want more of!
7. personal touches
Have them think about throwing in a few personal touches that fit their values and branding. Is there anything special in their house they'd like to incorporate? Photos? Special trinkets? These are a great way to show a little more of who they are to their ideal clients as they rise up the know-like trust ladder.
Are you looking to elevate your confidence & boost your brand photography business?
I'm here to help you guide your clients through fun and relaxed personal branding photoshoots that boost their confidence and save them time with loads of gorgeous content. Plan shoots that build trust with your clients and connect you to other beautiful souls who can't wait to have you showcase their business.
It's ok (and very common) for your clients to feel nervous on camera - Your job is to support them through the journey.
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