How to plan a brand photoshoot: A step by step guide

Learning how to plan a brand photoshoot is an exciting milestone for your business. But let’s be real – the process can also feel like a massive, “what the heck do I do” moment.

Don’t worry! With the right preparation, you can walk into your brand shoot feeling confident and walk out with amazing photos that truly elevate your brand experience.

Why On-Brand Photos Matter

As a small business, your visual identity is more than just pretty pictures. It’s about creating a visual narrative that connects with your audience and sets you apart from the competition. Stock images might get you by, but they’ll never truly capture the essence of your unique business.

High-quality, custom brand photos:

• Make your business look more professional
• Build trust and connection with your audience
• Perfectly complement your existing branding
• Help you feel like an absolute boss (because why not?)

Step-by-Step Guide on how to Plan Your Brand Photoshoot

1. Define Your Goals

Understanding your “why” for planning a brand photoshoot is an important first step before diving into the actual brand photoshoot. This isn’t just about taking pretty pictures (although you will get those!) – it’s about strategic visual storytelling that aligns with your business objectives.

Are you looking to:

• Refresh your website
• Create content for social media
• Launch a new product
• Update your brand’s visual identity

Key questions to consider:

• What message do you want to convey through your images?
• Who is your target audience?
• Where will these photos be used (website, social media, marketing materials)?

2. Create a Mood Board

Head to Pinterest and start creating a mood board.

A mood board is your visual planning tool. It helps you organize and clarify the look and feel of your brand photoshoot by collecting real-world examples that represent your business’s style and personality.

Trust me, your photographer will love seeing your vision laid out.

Include these elements in your mood board for your brand photoshoot:

• Color palettes that match your brand
• Sample photos that inspire you
• Pose and expression references
• Prop and location ideas
• Outfit inspiration

3. Choose the Right Photographer

Picking the right photographer is more than checking a box on your to-do list. You want someone who understands small businesses and can capture what makes your work special. Look for a photographer who’s done brand shoots before and has a portfolio that speaks to you.

What to look for:

• Experience in brand photography
• Consistent style that matches your vision
• Positive reviews and testimonials
• Someone you genuinely vibe with

Pro tip: Have a few conversations with potential photographers before booking. It’s like a first date – you want to make sure you’re a good match!

4. Plan the Photoshoot Details

Every great brand photoshoot starts with solid planning. As a fellow planner, I know the magic is in the details. A well-organized shoot saves time and reduces stress. This is your chance to create images that actually show what your business is about.

Think through the little things that make your work unique – the setting, the props, the overall feel you want to capture.

Key considerations:

• Location: Choose a setting that reflects your brand’s personality
• Props: Select items that support your brand message
• Outfits: Pick clothes that represent your style and make you feel comfortable
• Pro hack: Do a “sit test” to ensure your outfits look great in every pose
• Lighting and Timing: Plan the shoot during optimal lighting conditions

5. Create a Shot List

While your photographer will offer suggestions, having a plan keeps you focused on your branding goals. A shot list helps you make the most of your brand photoshoot. It’s your way of making sure you capture all the key moments and images that tell your business story. Think of it as your game plan for creating photos you’ll actually want to use.

Must-have shots:

• Professional headshots
• Landscape-oriented images for website headers
• Product shots (if applicable)
• Behind-the-scenes workspace images
• Candid shots that showcase your personality

Bonus tip: Set up a tripod and record some behind-the-scenes footage for Instagram B-roll!

6. Enjoy the Process!

At the end of the day, have fun and be authentically you. With a few weeks of preparation, your brand photoshoot won’t feel overwhelming – it’ll be an exciting celebration of your business.

The Impact of Professional Brand Photos

As a brand and website designer, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative professional photos can be for a business. These aren’t just images – they’re your visual foundation. Great brand photos do more than fill empty space on a website; they tell your story, build trust with potential clients, and set you apart in a crowded digital marketplace. They are the cherry on top in the whole branding process.

They help potential clients see the real you, your personality, your professionalism, and the unique value you bring to your work.