How to Prepare for Your Branding Photography Session

29 Aug

So, you’ve booked your branding photography session – amazing! Whether you’re launching a new business, updating your website, or simply wanting to show up more intentionally online, this is such a powerful step toward elevating your brand.

But what now? If you're wondering how to get ready and make the most of your session, you're in the right place. Here's a simple guide to help you feel prepared, confident, and excited for your shoot.

1. Know Your Brand Story

Before anything else, take some time to reflect on your brand. Ask yourself:

What do I want people to feel when they see my brand?
What’s my mission and message?
Who am I trying to attract?

The clearer you are on your story, the easier it is for your photographer (hi, that’s me!) to help tell it visually through light, colour, expression, and setting.

2. Create a Shot List or Mood Board

You don’t need to plan every single photo, but having a rough shot list or mood board is super helpful. Think about:

The platforms you’ll use the images on (Instagram, website, email headers, etc.)
Whether you need landscape or portrait orientation
Any specific props or tools of your trade you want included
Poses or settings that feel true to you

Pinterest is a great place to gather inspiration, but make sure it aligns with your own brand personality and not someone else’s vibe entirely.

3. Choose the Right Outfits

Outfits are a huge part of how your photos will look and feel. My top tips:

Choose 2–3 looks to add variety
Pick clothes that you feel good in – comfortable, confident, and authentically you
Avoid loud logos or distracting patterns (unless they’re on-brand!)
Consider your brand colours, but don’t feel you have to match them exactly – complementary tones work really well too

4. Prep Your Props and Tools

Think about the items that tell your story – your laptop, favourite mug, notebooks, camera, florals, packaging, or even personal touches like vintage books or records. If you’re service-based, props can help show how you work. If you sell products, we’ll definitely want to incorporate those!

5. Pick Meaningful Locations

I only shoot with natural light and on-location, so where we shoot is a big part of the magic. Depending on your brand, we might shoot:

In your home or workspace
At a local café or creative venue
Outdoors in the countryside or urban spots

The key is to choose places that reflect your style and allow for variety. Don’t worry – I’ll help you with this if you’re unsure!

6. Look After Yourself Before the Shoot

You don’t need to turn into a supermodel overnight (you’re perfect as you are!), but a little self-care can help you feel your best. Make sure to:

Get a good night’s sleep
Stay hydrated
Eat something before the shoot
Bring water and snacks along
If it feels good to you, book in for a haircut, nails, or makeup – or keep things beautifully natural. You do you.

7. Trust the Process

This part’s important: your branding session isn’t about pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about showing up as your most real, magnetic, and brilliant self – and letting that shine through your photos.

I shoot in a relaxed, conversational way that feels more like spending time together than posing stiffly for the camera. I’ll guide you, chat with you, and help you feel at ease the whole time.

Final Thoughts

Branding photography is more than just pretty pictures. It’s about connection, emotion, and telling your story. Preparing well helps us bring out the best of you, but don’t worry – I’m here to guide you through it all.

If you’ve got any questions, ideas, or nerves – just reach out. I’d love to help you feel confident, creative, and completely prepared for your session.