How to master your next branding shoot


Branding shoots are an important part of your business. However, they can seem a bit intimidating. Even if you feel completely comfortable in front of the camera with your friends! There’s something about the professional aspect of them that can be daunting. What do you do with your hands? How should you stand? Which outfit will look the best? Today I’m sharing my top tips and poses for your next branding photoshoot. 


I book at least two branding shoots for myself each year. One of the main reasons I do this is to pick up on little tips and tricks as well as posing techniques that I can pass along to my clients. Not only will you master your poses, you’ll be comfortable doing them. The goal is to make things as easy breezy — and beautiful — as possible. 


Here’s how to master your next branding photoshoot.

Branding Photoshoot Tips


Bring Extra Clothes

You never know if you’ll change your mind about an outfit. Or if you’ll need an alternative piece for an extra shot. The more outfits you have, the better. Also, it’s a good idea to make sure the pieces you bring can mix and match with each other. That will give you even more options!

Bring extra hair and makeup

Having this handy, especially if you did your own hair and makeup for the shoot, allows you to touch up between shots. If you’re changing in an out of five outfits in an hour-long session, your hair is likely going to need a touch up! 😉 And so is your mascara, lipstick, or mattifying powder. Another tip? Use a setting spray on your face!

Bring Relevant Props

In addition to the usual coffee cup, mug, laptop and phone that you see in a lot of branding photoshoots, make sure you bring props that are relevant to your business. If you’re a photographer, you’d obviously bring a camera. If you’re a real estate agent, bring a “sold” sign along! And if you make handmade jewelry, bring some of your tools and finished pieces. You want the photos to truly embody you.

Branding Photoshoot Poses


Create Triangles

Use your body to create triangles. Why? Because they’re eye-catching and interesting to look at. This can be through a hand on the hip, a leg crossed behind the other, or even a hand hanging over your head.

Soft Hands

My favorite pose is the hand softly placed on the cheek. It gives an ethereal look to the subject! And it’s so effortless to do. Placing your hand gently on the face makes the pose look less aggressive. Also, I ask clients to do the same when they’re holding anything else during the shoot. The last thing you want are stiff, claw hands!

Fake it till you make it

Ever heard of faking it ‘til you make it? Use a fake laugh to create a genuine smile! At first it can seem awkward… However, chances are your fake laughter will turn into real laughter, which makes for the greatest natural smile photos.

Use Props

Having props around gives your hands something to do. Also, it prevents the awkwardness of not knowing where to place your hands. The ultimate dilemma! Having your coffee mug to hold or your notebook to write in also gives the images a purpose.

Have fun

The most important tip from today's post is to just have fun! Put some music on, be yourself, shake it off. Your photographer will take care of the rest.

Thank you for reading! I hope you found this post helpful. If you’d like to book a portrait or branding session with me, use this form to get started. Excited to work with you!


xo

Jeeval