Let’s be real – most business owners are absolutely terrified of their first brand shoot. You’re dropping serious money (we’re talking four figures here), you have no idea what to expect, and you’re secretly worried you’ll look awkward in every single photo. But here’s the thing: I’ve had eight brand shoots, and I’ve learned something new every single time. Through my unique bartering arrangement with an amazing local photographer, I’ve gotten quarterly shoots in exchange for coaching – which means I have way more insight than most business owners will ever have. And today, I’m sharing every single secret with you.
Why Every Service-Based Business Owner Needs Brand Photography
If you’re a coach or run a service-based business, professional brand photography isn’t optional anymore – it’s essential. I’m not talking about basic headshots. I’m talking about photos that capture your personality, your vibe, your energy, and your authority all wrapped up in visual form.
These photos elevate your brand, boost your authority, and can seriously impact your business growth. Yes, they come with a higher price tag, but if you’re smart about it (and listen to everything I’m about to tell you), you might only need to do this once a year. That’s a pretty small investment for the authority boost you’ll get.
Finding the Right Brand Photographer
Look for Experience If you’re close to making six figures, don’t experiment with photographers who are just starting out. You’ll probably like some photos but want to redo the whole thing, which ends up costing you more money. Find someone who already has brand photography experience.
Match Your Vibe This is huge. Do they have similar energy to you? Brand photography involves a lot of movement and direction – you want to be comfortable and have fun. I’m not going with someone who looks stiff and moody because that doesn’t match my personality. Look for someone with a big personality who can get you to move and try different things.
Check Their Editing Style Every photographer has a signature editing style. I knew I wanted light, bright, and airy – no shadows, no moodiness. Look at their portfolio and ask yourself: can you see yourself in those photos? If their style doesn’t match what you want, have a conversation about whether they can accommodate your vision.
The Questions You Must Ask Before Booking
Don’t be shy about asking the important questions:
- How many photos will I receive?
- How long is the session?
- When will I get my full gallery back?
- How many sneak peeks do I get, and when?
- What are my location options?
- Am I paying extra for studio rental?
- How many outfit changes are allowed?
If they say it’ll be six weeks for your full gallery, ask if they can do three to four weeks instead. You’re not being demanding – you’re being a smart business owner.
Pre-Shoot Preparation That Makes All the Difference
Forecast Your Needs Think about what’s coming down the pipeline. Two shoots ago, I took photos for my seven-year business anniversary that was still months away. A good photographer will ask you about upcoming offers, milestones, or special occasions you want to capture.
Gather Outfit Inspiration Start this process a week or two before your shoot. Get on Pinterest and TikTok – search for “semi-casual outfits,” “summer outfits,” “jean and casual top outfits.” Don’t wait until the last minute, especially if you’re ordering online. You need time to try things on and return what doesn’t work.
Study Posing Ideas Scour other brand photographers’ work online. Find poses you love and literally print them out to bring to your shoot or send them to your photographer beforehand. Things move quickly during shoots, and you might forget to mention something important.
Collect Props for Stock Photography Bring mugs, pencils, books, scrunchies, lip gloss, your laptop, AirPods – anything that relates to your business. These flat lay images are gold for slide decks and websites.
Day-Of Success Strategies
Bring Accessories and Extras I’ve brought Starbucks cups, Dunkin’ Donuts, cupcakes, balloons, flowers, M&Ms – you name it. These add personality and texture. One outfit with different accessories can create completely different looks.
Layer for Multiple Looks A simple button-down shirt and jeans becomes three different outfits when you add a red jacket, then a hat, then just switch to a ponytail with a headband. Make sure you’ve allotted enough time for these quick changes.
Communicate Your Photo Usage Tell your photographer how you’ll use these photos. If it’s mostly for social media, they’ll know to shoot more portrait-oriented shots. If you need website headers or LinkedIn banners, mention that specifically.
Have Fun and Get Weird This is where the magic happens. Fake laugh, dance, stick your tongue out, get on the floor – be cringy! These are the photos that make you look human and get the most traction on social media. The photos where I’m being silly and carefree are always my favorites.
My Ultimate Money-Saving Hack (Don’t Judge Me!)
Here’s my controversial secret: I shop on Amazon, try on outfits for 10-15 minutes during the shoot, then return them. I’m not talking about wearing clothes all day – literally just for the photos. I’ve done this with shoes, t-shirts, accessories, even putting $500 on my credit card knowing it would all be returned within two weeks.
This hack alone lets you get so many different looks without breaking the bank or filling your closet with clothes you’ll never wear again.
A successful brand shoot comes down to preparation, communication, and being willing to step outside your comfort zone. The photos where you’re most authentically yourself – laughing, moving, being a little silly – those are the ones that will elevate your brand and connect with your audience.
Ready to book your first (or next) brand shoot? I’d love to hear about your experience or answer any questions you have about this process. DM me on Instagram – tell me you read this post and let’s chat about making your brand photography dreams a reality!
