Working with a branding photographer is one of the best ways to present your business and create a professional image that reflects your brand. But to get the best results, preparation is key. Whether you’re booking corporate headshots, entrepreneur headshots, or a full personal branding photography session, taking the time to prepare means you’ll walk away with images that capture your personality and brand story.
As Matt Edwards, a personal branding photographer in Toowoomba , explains:
“The most successful shoots are the ones where clients feel ready and confident. Preparation takes away the nerves and helps us create images that are authentic, powerful, and uniquely you.”
So, how do you prepare for your branding photoshoot? Read on to find out the best practical branding photoshoot tips.
How to prepare for a branding photoshoot
The first thing you should do is to make sure you’re clear on your brand identity. Your photos should tell the story of your brand, and one of the best branding photoshoot tips is to take some time before the shoot to think about what you want those images to say. Do you want to appear polished and corporate, approachable and creative, or a mix of both?
Once you have this clarity, choosing your outfits and settings will become so much easier as everything stems from this single source of truth. Personal branding photography isn’t just about looking good; it’s about helping to visually communicate who you are.
What to wear for a headshot session
Wardrobe choices are one of the biggest questions clients have. Here is where organisation comes to good use once again. With a little planning, you can avoid last-minute stress. Here are the top tips for choosing what to wear for a branding photoshoot:
- Choose solid colours that complement your brand – connecting your outfits with your brand colour palette creates a consistent visual thread, ensuring your photos will always feel and look on brand.
- Bring three or four outfit changes for variety – this gives you the chance to mix and match looks during your session, resulting in a diverse set of images for social media, your website, and marketing materials.
- Mix formal options for corporate headshots with casual looks for lifestyle shots – many small business clients find this balance works well. Depending on your brand values, a combination of professional and smart casual outfits offers flexibility and authenticity.
- Avoid loud patterns, large logos, or trendy styles – bold designs can be distracting and harder to match with locations. Classic, timeless choices tend to photograph better and remain relevant longer. That said, bold or trendy choices can work if they align with your brand, the location, and the message you want your photos to convey. My own personal branding photos are a great example of this!
- Keep accessories simple and intentional – choose accessories that complement your style without drawing focus away from you.
Location and props: Adding personality to your images
The right location can make or break your images and take them from standard headshots to full brand photography. Think about where you normally work, meet clients, or feel most like yourself. You can even think outside the box. You might decide a country field, your front verandah, or a garden in full bloom is what will best represent your brand and the story you want to convey.
Here are some ideas:
- Entrepreneur headshots often shine in lifestyle settings like cafés, co-working spaces, and creative studios.
- Corporate headshots may suit professional backdrops such as a clean, crisp studio or a contemporary, professionally styled lounge, kitchen or office space.
- Small business branding photographer sessions can work beautifully in your workspace, or outdoors in Toowoomba’s beautiful natural light.
Don’t forget about props, such as laptops, coffee cups, branded stationery, or tools of your trade, which can reinforce your brand story. You could even do something as simple as a bouquet of flowers in your branded colours to help make your photos pop.
“Props aren’t about clutter – they’re about context,” says Matt. “They give your audience a sense of who you are, how you work and can speak volumes about how you do business.”
Self-care before your session
Another way to prepare for your personal branding photography and can really help you get into the right mindset is self-care. This can involve the following:
- A haircut or hair styling session, a beard trim, and other grooming appointments a few days in advance.
- A good night’s sleep and drinking plenty of water beforehand.
- Avoiding new skincare products right before your shoot to prevent any potential irritation.
Confidence is key, but it’s also important to be yourself.
“You don’t have to perform. Just be yourself,” says Matt. “If you decide to book me as your photographer, I’ll guide you through every step so your branding headshotslook natural and you look confident.”
When is the best time to plan a branding photoshoot?
For the best results, avoid scheduling your session with a branding photographer on a day filled with back-to-back meetings. Give yourself plenty of space and time to feel relaxed. You’ll feel less rushed and, instead, feel fully focused on the photoshoot.
Natural light can be a huge advantage in Toowoomba . Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the softest, most flattering lighting for outdoor branding photoshoot sessions.
Why does all this preparation matter?
If you’re working with a branding photographer, preparation allows you to get the most from your investment. For small business owners, personal branding photography provides images that can be used across your website, social media, collateral, presentations… the list goes on. For corporate professionals, polished corporate headshots build credibility and trust online.
“Brand photography is about connection. Preparation ensures I can capture images that resonate with your audience and feel truly authentic,” says Matt. “I’ve been behind the camera and in front of the camera for professional branding photography. Preparing for my session meant I could show up as my best self.”
Booking your professional headshot photographer in Toowoomba
Preparing for your photoshoot with a branding photographer doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By being clear on your brand story, mindfully choosing the outfits that fit with your brand and the message you want to convey, planning the best locations, and looking after yourself beforehand, you’ll be ready to capture the version of you you want to portray.
If you’re looking for a small business branding photographer, or want to book a full branding and headshotspackage, Matt Edwards Photography offers tailored sessions to help you stand out with confidence. Contact Matt today.
