How to Plan a Branding Photo Shoot
Personal branding is a hot topic, especially during the digitally-driven Pandemic age. Now that I’ve been Vax’d, I decided it’s time to bring my “Yogi Marketer” brand to life with new social media profile photos and some new images on my blog. I’m also job-searching so I am updating my email signature, Clanedly meeting scheduler profile, and my Zoom meeting profile.
Following is the strategic approach I took to Planning a Branding Photo Shoot:
1. Assess your needs. Where will you use your photos? Your social media profiles are a given, but maybe you have a website, blog, or other places you want to use the images. Make a list of what types of images you want, what shape and size they need to be, and think about your background location.
2. Research professional headshots and branding photo ideas on Pinterest. I created a “Headshot Ideas” Pinterest board for inspiration of poses, backgrounds, and outfits that I liked.
3. Find a trusted photographer to share your vision with. Collaborate on what will work best and how many different options you would like. It’s important to communicate how and where you will use the photos. Lighting and background scenery can make a huge difference in a high-end professional headshot and a casual Instagram photo. See my example below. My photographer loved the direction I gave him!
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
4. If you choose an outdoor location, be sure to scout out the property to find a few spots that will work. Since lighting is everything when it comes to photography, be sure to visit the location at the same time of day that you will be shooting. I chose evening- also know as “Golden Hour” when the sun goes down, just before dusk.
5. Come prepared! Because I’m #AlwaysExtra, I showed up to my photo shoot with a suitcase of clothing changes, props, hairbrush, makeup, water, and snacks!
6. Give your photographer credit. As you can imagine, photographers took a big hit during the Pandemic, it’s important to share their craft (your photos) with the world, and tag them so that others can see their work. If you are in the Nashville, TN area, I highly recommend Nashville Corporate Photographer, Nathan Morgan. He really captured my spirit as well as my smile.
Check out some of my favorite branding photo shoot pics!
Which ones do you like? Are you inspired to plan a branding photo shoot for yourself? Tell me all about it in the comments below!