How to prep for a brand photoshoot

In our digital world, brand photos are a MUST for any small business and service-based entrepreneur to promote themselves online. But many of us were not meant to be models!

So how do you get past any awkwardness to achieve brand photos that show confidence and reflect your brand? Here are my tips…

1. Collect inspo

Have a sense of the vibe you're going for before you show up. In the weeks leading up to your photoshoot, bookmark photos on IG that inspire you and share them with your photographer. Bonus points if you create a mood board to illustrate your aesthetic.

2. Skip the (last minute) haircut

We've all had that nightmare haircut situation… let's not risk it the day before the shoot! But if you want to feel fresh, go ahead and get that new ‘do 2-3 weeks in advance so you have plenty of time for damage control if it doesn’t go as planned.

3. Wear outfits that you love

Confidence & comfort makes for the best photos, so wear what makes you feel the most like you! Bring 2-3 outfit changes for a variety of options (think layers for easy changing), and try to stick to solid colors (bonus points if they match your brand colors).

4. Bring props

Props can help to reinforce your brand, provide a wider variety of photos, and give you something to do (goodbye awkward hands). Pose with a laptop, phone, or notebook (or any typical tools you use to do your job), and consider setting up decorative props that feel relevant to your brand (plants, furniture, etc).

5. Breathe!

For many of us, getting photos taken can feel incredibly awkward… this awkwardness does show up on camera, so fake it til you make it! Take deep breaths to relax, soften your shoulders & jaw, visualize your best & most confident self, and just pick a pose and go with it!