Think again.
A professional brand session, done right, is a powerful tool to supercharge your business and connect with your audience on a whole new level. Here are 15 essentials your session needs to capture the heart of your brand and make your marketing life a whole lot easier.
1. Look at Your Current Social Media (Seriously)
Take a step back and analyze what’s actually working for you on social. This is the starting point for figuring out what to lean into and what needs a reboot. Know what your audience already loves, where you’re showing up consistently, and where your brand might be sending mixed signals. This insight is gold for creating new visuals that hit the mark.
2. Dive into Your Goals—Short and Long-Term
If your brand session doesn’t align with where your business is going, you’re missing the point. This is the time to clarify your current goals and dream a little about what’s next. A solid brand session should support what’s happening now and lay the foundation for where you’re headed, so you’re prepared no matter how your brand evolves.
3. Get a Style Consultation
Let’s get real: style matters. This consultation will help nail down wardrobe, color palettes, and props that feel authentically you. You want to make sure the visuals reflect your brand’s personality and speak to your target audience. Don’t just wing it—bring the right vibe from the start.
4. Create a Mood Board
A mood board is like the secret sauce to a successful brand session. It pulls together colors, props, poses, and locations, and gives you and the photographer a clear picture of the end goal. This way, everyone’s on the same page, and there’s no “I thought we were going for this, but we got that” moment.
5. Profile Your Ideal Client
Knowing your ideal client isn’t a “nice-to-have”—it’s the whole point. When you’re clear on who you’re trying to attract, your photographer can craft visuals that speak to them. From the setting to the poses, every shot should be tailored to draw in the people who are the best fit for what you offer.
6. Scout Locations That Match Your Brand Vibe
Your location is your stage. The setting you choose sends a message, so be sure it’s the right one. Whether it’s a cozy coffee shop, a slick cityscape, or an office with a view, pick a place that aligns with your brand’s vibe and says what you want it to say—without having to say a word.
7. Showcase Your Products or Services
The goal here is to make what you offer crystal clear. Whether it’s a product or a service, these shots should allow potential clients to visualize the experience. This is your chance to set the stage for what working with you looks like, feels like, and delivers.
8. Be Smart About Props
Props are like visual shorthand for your brand. Pick items that tell your story and align with your business. If you’re in wellness, bring in natural elements; if you’re tech-driven, laptops and tablets might add to the story. Props add context and personality, so choose wisely.
9. Mix Up the Shots
Variety is the spice of your brand session. You need close-ups, mid-range, and wide shots to cover all the bases. This variety gives you options for different platforms, like social media, website banners, or print. With a versatile mix, your brand will feel consistent across the board.
10. Add Personal Branding Elements
Here’s your chance to bring you into the picture. Showcase details that reveal who you are—your favorite pen, a unique coffee mug, or even a piece of art you love. The goal is to bring a bit of your personality into the visuals to help potential clients connect on a deeper level.
11. Don’t Forget Team or Collaborative Shots
If you have a team or work closely with others, include them in a few shots. These images can show off your brand’s collaborative side and build trust by showing clients what it’s like to work with you. Team shots are perfect for conveying credibility and a strong brand culture.
12. Capture Lifestyle Shots
Lifestyle shots bring authenticity to your brand. These casual, candid-style photos give your audience a glimpse into your “real life” moments, showing that you’re not just about business—you’re relatable and approachable, too. They’re perfect for brands aiming to build a loyal community.
13. Get the Environmental Details
The little details matter. Capture the everyday items that surround you and support your work—the coffee cup, the plants, the tools you use. These shots add layers to your brand story and make the final images feel more authentic and “lived in.”
14. Create Content-Specific Shots
Think ahead to your content needs. Plan for images with empty space for text overlays, perfect for those social media posts or website banners. By tailoring some shots to specific content purposes, you create versatility without losing any visual impact.
15. Lock In a Signature Shot
This is the shot that says it all. A signature image captures the essence of your brand and becomes your go-to profile picture for social media, your website, and any place where you need to make a first impression. Think of it as your visual elevator pitch—make it count.
A brand session isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s an investment in your brand’s future. By incorporating these 15 elements, you’ll create visuals that feel true to who you are and resonate with your audience. You’ll walk away with a collection of content that does the talking for you, supporting your business goals and helping you show up consistently, authentically, and powerfully.
Book your free consultation now and see the difference professional brand photography can make.
