How my own Personal Branding Shoot made me a more supportive Brand Photographer – Plus top tips to prepare for yours.
As small business owners, it’s important to practise what we preach. How can we expect others to believe in what we’re offering if we don’t teach by example? As a professional photographer, I’ve always created my own brand images (aka self-portraits), but this year I decided it was time to take it up a notch and have my own personal branding photoshoot, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. So today, I want to share how having my own brand shoot has given me a much better understanding of the experience from my client's point of view. Read on for some first-hand guidance and top tips for preparing for your personal branding shoot.
1. Set clear goals with your brand photographer.
So first up, my personal branding photoshoot experience has reinforced how important it is to set clear goals and plan well with your photographer in advance. Ahead of the shoot, I spent a lot of time reflecting on my brand and considering what images I needed for my business and upcoming content marketing. I made sure to share all my ideas with my photographer so we were on the same page. I feel this planning really paid off and has resulted in powerful and useful images. I particularly noticed this when I started putting my new brand images into action. Like when I wanted to update my LinkedIn banner image, I had the perfect photo to use, it was the right size and it communicated exactly what I wanted my audience to know. Now, whenever I create a new post on Instagram or want to jazz up a web page, I can dip into my brand shoot album and find the perfect photo all ready to go!
2. Prepare well in advance for your brand shoot.
As a photographer, working with clients for over 12 years, I’ve built up a lot of advice to help my clients prepare for their photoshoots. But when it was my turn, some of my own advice foolishly went out the window, and I suffered for it!
So one of my biggest takeaways is how important it is to prepare for shoot day as much in advance as possible. For example, I thought I had planned my outfits in plenty of time, but a few days before the shoot I realised that I didn’t have a suitable bra for my new jumpsuit, and I didn’t know what jewellery I was wearing! The night before the shoot I also realised that my laptop was filthy and as it was going to feature in some of my photos I needed to clean it. Unfortunately, leaving these things to the last minute meant I was stressed and didn’t have time for things like painting my nails and unwinding the night before. So, make sure to give yourself plenty of time for tasks like buying the perfect accessories to complete each look, and instead of doing important tasks last minute, get them out the way early so you have time to relax.
Once I got these tasks out of the way though, I was thankful that I knew exactly what I was going to wear and what props I wanted to use, so I didn't have to carry more than I needed. I also packed each outfit and its accessories together, which really helped me change quickly during the shoot.
This experience has reaffirmed why I give my clients certain advice and how crucial preparation is—not just for looking good, but for feeling confident and avoiding stress too.
3. Trust your Brand Photographer.
Being a personal branding photographer myself, I particularly struggled with letting go of control as I’m usually the one behind the camera. During my brand shoot, I had to trust my photographer and let her guide me. I really appreciate now how daunting it can be having your photo taken; not knowing if you look ok, not sure if you’re posing right. But after feeling like this for the first few shots I decided I needed to trust my photographer and pass that responsibility over to her. Which is exactly what you should do during your personal branding shoot! When you take this pressure off yourself, the experience is so much more enjoyable, I promise you. I did make sure to ask questions when there was something I was particularly worried or unsure about though, because communication is key. And as my photographer and I had good communication throughout the planning process too, I could be confident that she understood my vision.
I think handing over control is something many small business owners may struggle with as ‘our business is our baby’. However, my experience has proven the importance of communicating your vision with your photographer and then trusting them, to achieve the best results.
4. Remember the power of personal branding photography.
When I received the final images from my brand photoshoot, I was struck by how empowering it was to see myself through someone else’s lens. The photos had captured me in a way I’d never seen before. I thought, “I look confident, I look professional, I look like a business owner. Move over imposter syndrome, I AM a confident, professional, business owner!”
Now, when I use my new brand images for content marketing, I feel confident that I’m showing up as a professional and communicating the high level of experience I have. It makes me feel proud, and I truly believe these images will help my clients feel more confident about trusting (and booking) me - which is exactly what personal branding images should do for you too!
This didn't happen by accident though, it was through all the aspects I mentioned above; setting goals, preparing well, communicating, and trusting your photographer, that led to this outcome. It may sound funny coming from a personal branding photographer, but having my own brand shoot was a powerful reminder of the value that professional brand photography brings. It helps individuals see their own strengths and uniqueness in a new light, and more importantly, it can help how you portray yourself to your clients.
Top tips for your Personal Branding Photoshoot.
So, now that I’ve had my own personal branding photoshoot what top tips do I have for you as you prepare for your brand shoot?
Plan your shoot goals and communicate well with your photographer throughout. Make sure you’re on the same page!
Prepare everything well in advance. Avoid stress and problems on shoot day.
Trust your photographer and enjoy the experience. Being relaxed and confident will shine through in your images
Remember why you are doing this and how these images will impact your business. Focus on how your clients will view your brand rather than getting caught up on your self-image. Be Proud!
I've always prided myself on preparing my clients well for their photoshoots, but after this experience, I have a better understanding of your journey - from the initial nerves to the final joy of seeing your images. Building a supportive and collaborative relationship with each of my clients will now be my number 1 priority. I will ensure you feel confident on shoot day in order to receive the perfect brand images for your specific business needs. I won’t just be your brand photographer, I'll be your cheerleader too!
If you’re considering a personal branding photoshoot, I’ll make sure you feel seen and celebrated. To learn more about elevating your brand through stunning photography, visit my London personal branding photography page. Together, we can create a collection of engaging personal branding photos that capture the essence of your business and leave a lasting impression on your clients.
If you’re in need of some personal brand images to promote yourself, I’d love to help!
As your personal branding photographer, I’ll aim to show off your unique personality & your specific offerings in a creative way through the beautiful brand images we create together.
I also want to give you more confidence to show up for the people who need you, so you can build a strong and recognisable personal brand.
Personal branding photography can really help you stand out, make an impact, and get seen!