I had been putting off doing a branding photo shoot forever for quite a few reasons:
- I’m still struggling to get rid of my pandemic weight.
- I knew I didn’t want photos taken in a suit but struggled with what to wear to represent my business and be authentically me.
- I either have a big Colgate smile or not at all.
- I have pose-phobia! Seriously, what do I do with my hands?!
Eventually, I said enough was enough and was presented with a great deal by a photographer I had wanted to work with forever, and I knew this would be my last chance to work with her at this price, so I jumped on it!
Why?
I had never considered starting with a mini-brand shoot and getting my headshots done. After thinking, I thought it was a great way to “get my feet wet.” It doesn’t involve much posing. You don’t have to worry too much about your outfit as nothing below the waist is really shown. However, I bought about 6 outfits before walking into Torrid and Deciding on something on the spot! Finally, it allows you to visualize what to expect from a full branding shoot.
Outfit tips:
Honestly, you want something comfortable. If you are comfortable, you won’t look stuffy. So I won’t tell you what to wear, but find something authentic you, not just a t-shirt and leggings. Remember, this is your first impression of your ideal client.
Last but not least, if you don’t know how to do makeup, please don’t stress over doing it yourself. I found a fantastic makeup artist on Style seat who did my make for less than $70. My makeup was so flawless; I honestly could have done without the edited version of my images; it was that good (in my opinion!)
If you have similar fears to me doing a full branding photo shoot, I encourage you to start with just getting your headshots done, and I guarantee all of your worries will go away! Now, I can’t wait to plan my next photo shoot!