“5-Shots to try during your next Brand Photoshoot”
Photoshoots can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for both the photographer and the talent. If you’re feeling a bit antsy before your next shoot, that’s completely normal. Even for me as a photographer, it took years of practice before I felt comfortable being in front of the camera. While confidence plays a big part, knowing a few important shots can help improve your next branded photoshoot.
Q: What is a brand photoshoot?
Branded photoshoots go beyond a simple portrait session because they serve to visually capture a brand’s identity. Brand colors, tone, and everything else relevant to your brand are all unique elements that influence your photo session. Brand photoshoots are catered specifically towards who you are - whether that be an entrepreneur, realtor, creative artist, yoga instructor, etc. Location, wardrobe, color palettes, props, and mood are all factors that are planned out before the shoot even begins.
“The future is business is personal & stock imagery is on its way out.”
By hiring a good personal brand photographer, you’re making an investment in your brand that will help you;
Show up authentically online
Attract ideal clients
Utilize a library of 100+ images on social media
Craft a website with on-brand imagery
By now, you’ve invested in a brand photographer and are preparing for your shoot! Here are 5 different shot types to spice up your next brand photoshoot.
1. Getting Work Done
Whatever your subject does, whether it’s ceramic painting or online coaching, it’s important to highlight them in their element! This is easy to do when you get to know your client and their brand.
Ryan is an aspiring life coach for for young men so as part of this shoot, we made sure to show him in his element. Answering emails, scheduling meetings, and handling business while working on his laptop.
2. Detailed Close-Ups
Variety is key when taking branded photos. A website needs more than just smiling headshots - although those are also on the list! Make sure to get close-up shots that tell a story. i.e. hands typing, writing a letter, picking up an instrument, etc.
Great detail shots leave space for text to be inserted whether that be on your website or a flyer.
3. Action Shots
Some of the best shots happen while in motion. It feels 10x more natural for the talent and is very easy to pull off.
To do this, set your framing and instruct your talent to do a specific movement. In this shot, I asked Ryan to walk into frame, pull out the chair, and pretend to greet a new client. While no one was actually there, the motion felt natural and led to this great “candid” photo.
4. The Headshot
Headshots are such a versatile photo to have in your personal marketing arsenal. You can use them for social media, flyers, and even dating profiles if that floats your boat!
Good, even lighting and a simple background can help you achieve a great headshot. It’s also important to try more serious faces so that your client has the option when posting.
5. Overlays
Call it an overlay, bird’s eye view, or overhead shot - these types of photos are always fun and provide a different perspective. Typically, these shots work with food photography/product photography however they also pair well with personal brand photos.
It’s important to check your frame so that nothing unwanted is in the frame.
Hopefully, this blog gave you some inspiration for different shot types to include during your next brand shoot! With proper planning, you and your photographer can ensure you get the most out of your photo session.
Are you thinking about taking your own branded photos? Interested in stepping up your online presence with unique imagery that reflects who you are & what you do. There’s no time like the present!
