HEADSHOTS & PERSONAL BRANDING PHOTOGRAPHY
The Ultimate Guide: How to Prepare for Your Photoshoot Like a Pro
Any business needs a headshot or personal branding image. So you need compelling imagery to show everyone who you are and why you are so passionate about your own business. You need to ensure your business stands out and has maximum visibility, as first impressions count.
So you’ve found a photographer, and it’s me.
Samatha Peel - Founder of Welly Pictures
You have booked a headshot or personal branding session – how exciting – what’s next?
Once you have booked in, it is time to talk!
Location
What to wear
Hair & Make-up
Props
Time
LOCATION
Your personal brand photoshoot doesn't have to be at home or office. You could consider a location that means something to you or is possible outside of your home.
The background and location selected for your photo shoot are imperative in invoking the right brand feel for your ideal client. If you are marketing to the corporate sector, bright-coloured walls are probably not the right feel. We will find locations with desks that suit your brand image. If you are marketing to creative entrepreneurs, vibrant and interesting backgrounds and places you meet clients like coffee shops will contribute a long way to creating that memorable first impression.
WHAT TO WEAR
Your choice of clothing should fit the image you’d like to create for your brand. Much like location – this should connect with your ideal client. This is usually a combination of colours that match or complement your branding colours (from your website) and type of business.
Don’t wear something you wouldn’t normally wear – your favourite go-out outfits are a great choice. As we will have time for outfit changes during the personal brand photo shoot, you may wish to bring smart and casual clothing. You want to feel comfortable and like yourself. Tight clothing doesn’t always work well when sitting down, so wear something flattering, but make sure it is something you LOVE. High heels look gorgeous if you have them!
HAIR & MAKE-UP
Once we have discussed what you will wear, I always suggest having your hair done before. It is always worth spending extra effort on professional photographs. A little more makeup helps with photographs. Despite all these extra efforts, please do not go overboard, as touch-ups or hair loss won't look good.
PROPS
Props on a shoot are the perfect way to illustrate what you do and love! Laptops, books, headphones, smoothies & yoga mats.
Ask yourself this question.
What would you have that illustrates your business AND your business ethos?
The answer could be no props or many items we can include in the photographs.
Showing what you love is the most effective way to create and show your personality brand. This will make you more personable and approachable to your clients. People want to know the real you. If you can identify with people through your personal brand or headshot, you will book your ideal clients.
This is the most crucial part
TIME
Leave yourself time – don’t prepare last minute the evening before. You've spent money and time investing in this shoot.