So, you're ready to level up your brand with a photoshoot—amazing! But before you start posing and flashing smiles, let’s talk about a few common branding photo mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Trust me, these tips will save you time, stress, and make sure your shoot goes off without a hitch.
1. Stick to Your Brand GuidelinesYour photos need to align with your brand and brand strategy (if you have one!). Brand guidelines aren’t just for your website—they translate directly into your photos. Think about your visuals, including brand colors, style and what would work with this. If you have a web designer consult with them. I will often do this on behalf of my clients in the planning phase of our work together.I recently photographed a doctor launching her own health and wellness practice. Her brand colours were natural tones of peach and green, with a soft relaxing tone. Her designer asked for clean backgrounds and soft, warm lighting to match. The result? Photos that felt perfectly on-brand, and fit seamlessly into her site.On the other hand, I’ve shot for a lawyer whose brand was crisp, modern, and full of negative space. That meant a bright, minimalistic setting was key.
Pro tip: Your brand style will dictate the location, lighting, and overall feel of the photos. Sometimes, multiple locations are necessary to get the variety and consistency you need. Sometimes the office or space you work in won’t work for your brand so be willing to explore other options!
2. Create a Shot List & Brief (Yes, You Need One)You wouldn’t go on a road trip without a map, right? Same goes for your photoshoot. A solid shot list and clear brief are your roadmap to success.We gather all the info about your brand and either work with an existing brief or help you create one from scratch. Every package I offer includes:
A shoot plan
Location scouting or suggestions
Styling assistance
3. Don’t Forget Custom Stock ImagesStock photos, B-roll, flat lays—they may seem like fluff, but they’re essential. Why? Because not every image needs to be your face front and center (no offense!). These shots give your website and marketing materials some breathing room and are perfect for layering text over.Yes you could get these stock images online, but they will have a different look, feel and editing style to your own.So, while you're investing in a personal brand shoot, make sure to include these “filler” photos. For example, for my client in the health and wellbeing industry we shot close ups pouring tea, some supplements in her hand, and lots of images making notes.. Need advice? Just ask—I’ll help you figure out how much time you need to get them done right.
4. Go Beyond Just HeadshotsHeadshots are great, but they’re just one part of the picture. Personal branding photography dives deeper. It’s about showcasing your personality, values, and business, not just your face.
Headshots = Shoulders up, professional, polished. Perfect for LinkedIn or your website.
Personal branding photos = Full story. These shots can include various outfits, settings, and props that bring your brand to life. Think of them as a way to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
5. Have Visual Inspiration ReadyWhether it’s a Pinterest board, a mood board, or screenshots of images you like, visual inspiration helps your photographer understand your vision. The clearer you communicate your ideas, the better the outcome.
6. Sort Your Outfits in AdvanceI know this sounds obvious, but you would be surprised at how often people show up with wardrobe malfunctions! Plan your outfits ahead of time, and try everything on to make sure they fits perfectly.
A few extra tips:
Steam your clothes—wrinkles aren’t your friend, no this will not photoshop out ;p
Check your underwear—I have seen undergarments ruin a shoot by being ill fitting or showing up in unwanted places!
This prep work goes a long way in ensuring you look and feel your best on the day. Avoid these mistakes, and your branding photoshoot will be a breeze! Have any more questions? Feel free to email me or shoot me a DM on Instagram. Ready to take the plunge and elevate your business with a personal brand shoot? You can inquire about branding here!
