8 Ways To Prep for a Branding Session
Hiring a photographer is a big decision, but we believe it’s a good decision, too. Memories of family time fade quickly in our minds. Photographs allow us to relive the everyday moments at any time.
Here at Meet the Bryants Photography, we take pride in capturing you in a candid/casual and editorial way. That said, we often get lots of questions from clients asking “how exactly do we do a branding shoot?” or “what should I do to prepare?”
Here are 8 Top Tips to Prep For A Branding Session with us, The Bryants:
1. Get to Know Us!
Spend some time scrolling our feeds (social media links), visiting our portfolio on the website, or scheduling a call with us to chit-chat and brainstorm some ideas (though if you keep reading, we’ll detail that out here in a sec ;) )
In order to make the most of it, there are a few key things to take into consideration:
2. Relax. Don’t be nervous!
It’s okay to feel nervous! Please know that we do not expect you to be a model. Our job is to direct you in a way that helps you relax, feel natural, and be your true comfortable self in front of our lens. You do not need to practice poses, or let the nerves take over. By the end of the session you will feel like Tyra Banks (just dated ourselves haha) and wonder when your big break in modeling will come! Don’t worry if you are feeling nervous, we’ll be sure the end result is something you will love!
3. Please be on time!
Being that we prefer natural light, our timing for your session isn’t a coincidence, it is scheduled so that we have the best lighting for your photos. Please make proper considerations for traffic, hair delays, and fashion emergencies! 😉 An average shoot lasts 1-2 hours...if you show up 30 minutes late, the session is not extended, but, rather, ends at the regularly scheduled time. We want the BEST photography experience for you. And being on time achieves exactly this! :)
4. Come prepared!
If you have elected professional hair and makeup for your session, make sure you allow enough time to enjoy that experience prior to your photoshoot. If you want to arrive in your first outfit, we will get right to work. After an air hug and a little small talk, that is.
5. What to wear?
You should never feel like you have to wear something you’re not comfortable in. After all, these pictures are for you! They’re meant to showcase your brand and your personality.
3 Main Tips for planning your wardrobe:
Create your personal style - Start with elements you already love and don't try to be something you aren't. If you're a jeans and t-shirt type of gal, own it! Bottom line— be you! As long as you’re feeling comfortable, confident, and cool in it, we’re on board!
Don't forget your colors - Remember that these pictures are meant to show your brand’s personality. Be careful with wearing too much black, however. While it does wonders in person, it hides too much on camera and distracts the viewer from you and your incredible personality.
Finding inspiration - When in doubt find a style icon to emulate and work your way up from there. Or at the least, you can find some inspirations on Pinterest. Create a board to share with us so we can be in alignment with.
Small details like this help ease stress, so consider setting out your outfits the night before and making sure you have every accessory you want photographed ready!
6. Did We Mention You Should Relax? ;)
Again. We promise that'll be the smoothest photo experience you’ve ever had.
7. It’s always fun to bring along props.
We view every branding session like a mainstream shoot--complete with models, props and scenery. We want every shoot to look like it could be in a magazine, so feel free to bring things along that really reflect your brand. We want your session to scream YOU, so if that means props that tell your story, please do! The list is endless! Suggestions: your product, laptop, books, polaroid camera, a favorite journal, magazines you like reading. Anything! :) Don’t hesitate to bring anything that helps curate your brand.
8. Outfit Changes:
Feel free to bring one change of clothes: We love to offer the opportunity for an outfit change halfway through the session. This gives you the opportunity to get a few different looks and feels with your session while maximizing our time together. Many Clients opt for one dressier option and one more casual option. Warning: You may need to change in your car, depending on where we are shooting! Just be prepared for the adventure!
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Hopefully, these tips help answer any questions you might have about our branding shoot methods and alleviate any “fear” of trying something new! Our clients tend to start a little nervous and always end up saying “that was SO fun.” And when they see the final product: “oh my gosh, I LOVE these!” We know you’ll say so, too.
We look forward to working with you!
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
We'd love to hear from you.
