When making the decision to invest in professional brand design, it often goes hand-in-hand with professional brand photography. You will hear coaches and gurus alike share very strong opinions either for or against brand-photography – some saying it is a must while others strongly advise against it. So, what is the right answer? – Well, it depends. An experienced brand designer will be able to strategize if a branding photoshoot is best for your unique brand development, speak with one here. This blog will explore the Top 5 tips for planning, and executing a totally aesthetic and on-brand shoot.
Step One:
Conceptualize and Build a Mood Board
Pause. This is important. This step is the foundation to any successful brand shoot. When planning for a shoot there are always a lot of moving parts. The more detail you account for in these early stages, the better your results will be.
Ask yourself:
“What feeling do I want people to have when they first see my brand?” For Elev8 Designs Co. The feeling is “Minimalistic Opulence”
Using Pinterest, create a board dedicated for your Branding Photoshoot. Using keywords to search, like you would on google, start building your board with colors, textures, outfits, lighting, moods, scenes, props, and shots that match the feeling of your brand. It’s okay to start broad and then narrow in your search. You can see my moodboard here.
Step Two:
Choosing a Photographer and Location
Every brand has its own unique style – and the same goes for photographers. You can have 3 different photographers take the “same” photo with drastically different results. Different camera lenses, lighting, and editing techniques all contribute to a photographer’s style.
When choosing a photographer be sure to see their portfolio and compare their style to your moodboard. If they are stylistically similar, have a conversation with the photographer about their style and technique using specific examples from your moodboard to discuss the types of shots (full body, portraiture, flat lays, etc.), lighting (moody lighting, shadows, diffused light, natural vs. studio light), and editing techniques.
Your photographer is likely familiar with studios or suitable locations for your brand shoot in your area. Choosing a location with the help of your photographer is highly recommended.
My Studio: Mint Room Studios (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Step Three:
Create a Shot List
This is a list of photographs and poses for both you and your photographer to reference and capture during your photoshoot. A detailed shot list will help everyone manage time during the photoshoot. Some examples of a shot list could include:
Drinking coffee while using laptop at kitchen table, half-body, eye-level
Celebrating a completed project with a client, full body, wide shot, champagne prop
Lounging on the couch with iPad and Apple Pencil, full-body, close up.
You get the idea…
Step Four:
Choosing Outfits, Props and Accessories
Creating a capsule wardrobe for the day of your brand shoot is my favorite hack! Choosing neutral base layers, and accessorizing with different sweaters, jackets, shoes, etc… will help create visual interest throughout the shoot, while maintaining a cohesive style. For a more timeless photographs, be sure to choose clothing that is not indicative of a particular season (ie. A holiday sweater, or big fur coat).
Planning your full outfits and wardrobe changes for the day-of will also help manage your time during the shoot.
Lastly, using your shot list as a guide, organize any props or accessories you will need to bring with you the day of the shoot. Some things to consider: Laptop, cellphone, tablet, coffee cups, eyewear, books, notebooks, pen…
Step 5:
It’s Shoot Day!
The day has arrived for your branding photoshoot. Be sure to arrive on location early. Using a suitcase to transport your clothing and props is a great idea and it is also easy to pack in and out of your shoot. Bringing a friend, or partner with you is a great idea as a second set of eyes on your posing, catching those pesky flyaway hairs and keeping an eye on time (especially if you are in a studio rental). Make sure it is someone you’re comfortable around!
Relax and enjoy the day! Posing in front of a camera can be intimidating at first, try playing music or making jokes to keep the day fun.
How much does a Branding Photoshoot Cost?
The two biggest costs to your branding photoshoot will be your photographer and the location. These prices can vary depending on your location, demand for studio space and the experience of your photographer.
My Photographer: $750 for 2 Hours + 20 Edited Photographs
My Studio: $95/ Hour
