Tips for Planning Your First Personal Brand Photoshoot
Recently, a client that I was working with was getting ready to invest in a professional photoshoot for her new website and asked me if there were any tips I could give when it came to photos for a personal brand website. I was really excited for her because having great images that highlight who you and your brand are is one of the quickest and most powerful ways to get someone’s attention.
Whether you are planning your first photoshoot or you want a few new photos to give your site a refresh, here are a few tips to keep in mind when getting photos done.
Planning
Before you step in front of the camera, it’s always a good idea to plan out the look and feel of your brand and what you want to get across to your clients. Try planning out at least 3 “brand stories” you want to tell in your photoshoot. For example, if you are a copywriter then you might want a few photos in front of your laptop, if you sell courses then you might want a few photos speaking in front of a camera, if you want to highlight a more personal side then plan out a few photos of you doing something you like whether it’s sipping coffee or hanging out with your dog.
Outfit Options
Try to have at least two different wardrobe changes to give you more variety to choose from. Try and choose colours that go with your brand. (pro tip: if you are planning to change your make-up with your outfit, make sure to wear lighter shades first and then go darker after). Neutral tones and black are always safe.
Location Location Location
When deciding where to hold your shoot, it’s important to keep in mind what your brand colours are to make sure that your photoshoot’s background doesn’t clash with it. A mix of indoor and outdoor options are always good though try to stay away from anything too seasonal such as autumn leaves so that you can use the photos all year around, unless it’s directly tied to your brand.
It’s All in the Details
The little details can make a big difference. Close-up images can act as visual cues and let your clients know what you are all about. These can be things like stationery, coffee mugs, keyboards or even fresh flowers. These can be used as your website’s background or even on other projects such as images for lead magnets or video thumbnails.
Photo Orientation
Try and get a mixture of portrait and landscape shots. I've had situations where clients have only had landscape photography and it's been hard to manipulate for square or portrait style images. A landscape photo, in particular does great for the home page and would give your website consistency all the way through. If you are thinking of adding circle elements on your site, then you will need a central point of focus in the photos. Don’t forget to have options and try to get some close-ups of a stationary, working environment or other relevant still-life shots.
Have Fun with It
If you aren’t a fan of having your photo taken, it’s always a good idea to find a photographer that knows what they are doing and that you get along with. Having a photographer that can put you at ease makes a world of difference and can make even the most camera-shy subjects shine.
Another tip from Georgina of Georgina Little Photography suggests that it’s always worth talking to a photographer that you’ve found before you book to see if they’re the right one for you.
Finally, whilst a professional photographer will make all the difference if you’re at a stage in your business where your budget doesn’t allow for one then ask a friend who takes good snaps on Insta and use the tips above to create your own. I’ve personally used the black and white filter on my phone for images I’ve taken myself and find it forgives a multitude of photography sins!!
Happy snapping!
