3 Tips to Help you Prep for your Branding Session

So, your branding session is coming up and you’re staring at your closet with anxiety wondering what the hell to wear and also if you’ve prepared enough for this day. You’ve gladly spent money on a photographer you love, but you’re nervous you’re not going to make the most of your time together.

The preparation that goes into a branding session is much more involved than people realize. When I work with clients we discuss every little detail over a Zoom call; from the initial concept and vibe, wardrobe, props, shot list, etc. Ultimately, we are planning the marketing strategy and messages my clients want to put out into the world to continue growing their amazing businesses.

To give you an idea of what you should think about, here are my top three tips to help you prep for your branding session:

1. be intentional about your WARDROBE - THINK, YOU, BUT ELEVATED.

Ah, the fashionnnnnnnn! One of the most important pieces here is knowing what to wear. There are three key factors to consider when planning your wardrobe for your branding session.

// Color Palette: What are the colors that reflect your brand, your website and your personality? Choose a color palette that reflects all of those things. Possibilities include neutrals, statement, monochromatic, warm or cool tones.

// Texture/Contrast: Playing with texture is an easy way to add to add visual appeal while maintaining a neutral palette. For example, if you’re not someone who loves color, you can choose to add black and white as a form of contrast. Also, Plaid and stripes are timeless and always look great. I prefer vertical stripes as they elongate the body, but choose whichever you like. Live your truth.

2. choose your props (or not).

So here’s the thing. I always encourage a conversation around props, but mainly it’s to get on the same page about things with my client and also to decide if it’s really necessary. Should you bring your laptop? I mean, sure. Is it necessary? No. Why? Because it’s been done a million times and honestly, everyone knows you work with a computer. I think you can still create effective, relevant images without the use of your laptop.

With that being said, there are products, tools and every day items that can really help elevate your photos! Let’s break it down.

// Props: If you are a goods based business, this is a no brainer for you. For example, if you sell stationary, makeup or even candles. Those should definitely be represented in your shoot. If you you are a service based business, think about things that you offer and WANT to showcase (not should because you’re “supposed to”) as a selling point in your photos. Think of things that are unique to your business.

>> Photographer - albums, prints, polaroids

>> Branding/Design - color swatches, printed examples of mood boards you’ve made for clients, printed decks

>> Makeup/Hair - products you love using the most, your makeup chair, a ring light, educational tools

>> Fitness - educational handouts, weights, yoga mats, etc.

3. HIRE A MAKEUP ARTIST

Whether you normally wear makeup or not, I highly recommend getting your makeup done for your shoot. You will look extra polished and really stand out in your photos. Day-to day makeup tends to look a bit washed out on camera, but having it professionally done guarantees the right amount and the right coloring for your skin type. This is another chance to have fun and let the pros take the wheel. I know it’s an added expense and of course, budgets are important so do what is right for you!

4. BONUS TIP - TRUST

Listen, you’ve spent good money on a photographer that you admire, love their work and have a connection with so it’s time to just let go and have a good time! Trust that they are going to walk you through the process with ease, laughter and professionalism. All you have to do is prep well and the rest is in their hands. If you’re interested in having a personal conversation about this, girl I got you. Schedule a discovery call with me and we’ll talk it all out!