4 mistakes to avoid when planning your brand photoshoot

The next time you find yourself planning a brand photoshoot, refer back to this list of 4 mistakes to avoid when planning your brand photoshoot.

After all, a branding photoshoot is an investment. So you want to make sure you do it right, right?
Of course you do!

So let’s dive in!

1. Not having a clear brand style

Before I pick up my camera for a brand photoshoot, I send out an extensive questionnaire to get to know you and your brand. These questions help you get crystal clear on how you’d describe your visual brand style, who you’re attracting, and how you want people to feel when they interact with your brand.

If you’re unsure about your brand style, one of the best things to do is start a Pinterest board and notice the common theme. Are you drawn more towards bright, bubbly, colourful and playful images? Or do you prefer a professional, classic, clean, modern and neutral vibe?* What you’re most drawn towards is probably your preferred style!

*Those examples above are just random, and I encourage you to not try and squeeze yourself into a certain style or box that people think you “should” fit into!

2. Unsure of stories you want to tell

Have you and your photographer made a list of must have images? While I always like to leave a bit of time to play during the photoshoot, you’ll want to create a rough plan. Consider the stories you want to tell in your images. Like some behind the scenes, what it looks like to work with you, etc. I also suggest turning to Pinterest for inspo on this as well!

Don’t forget to look ahead on the calendar. Are there certain events, holidays or launches coming up? You’ll need specific images for those, so make sure you add them to your shot list!

Also think about where you want to be using the images and when your next brand photoshoot is so you have the right orientation for FB posts and IG reel covers and you have enough variety of images to last until your next photoshoot.

3. Trying to cram too much into one shoot

Whether it’s your first or your fifth brand photoshoot, it’s really exciting! You have all these ideas and you want to do EVERYTHING! This is a mistake I’ve seen so many times. You don’t want to be running around sweating your butt off trying to get a gazillion different images.

Your photographer should let you know how many outfits, setups and images you can expect during your photoshoot. This will vary depending on the length of the shoot and what the packages include.

It’s best to get clear and prioritize the main stories you want to tell.

Your brand photoshoot CAN be fun – I promise! Leave some time to play and really enjoy the experience. Remember it’s quality over quantity.

4. Leaving things to the last minute

A brand photoshoot is an investment in your business and yourself. You want to be happy with the results. The worst thing you can do is arrive totally rushed, unprepared, stressed and have no clue what you’re doing or what you want. That will only result in images that don’t feel like you and, therefore, you don’t really want to use.

Take the few weeks prior to your photoshoot to plan your outfits and gather your props. Don’t go shopping the day before – it’s too stressful! Does your photographer have a team they work with for hair and makeup, or do you need to book it yourself? Don’t forget to book any waxing, spray tan, hair salon, and pedicure appointments well in advance. (Hello excuse to get pampered!)

Organize your clothing and props the night before. Make a list and check it twice! Get a good sleep the night before, and do something relaxing for yourself the morning of your photoshoot.

Ready to book a stress free brand photoshoot? Send an email today! I’d love to hear from you!