A Photographer’s Tips From Her Own Branding Photoshoot.

As a branding photographer, I fully believe in the benefits of getting professional brand photos. It was something that had been on my mind for a while, but it is often hard to prioritise things that aren’t pressing, when there’s so many daily tasks to do. But i know I needed to do it, so I just had to pull the trigger and get it booked in.

This brand photoshoot was they first time I had hired and paid for another photographer to take my photos. Usually, I take photos myself with my tripod, or have my kids do it, but I knew I needed it done properly by another professional, so called on a very talented colleague. And I’m so glad I did!

Below are my takeaways from creating my own brand photos, and I hope my tips help you.

1 - Plan Ahead

Because this is my profession, I knew what types of photos I wanted, and how I wanted to use them, so I made a shot list so that I could communicate my vision with my photographer. But many of my clients don't know what they want or need - they just know they need something. That's where I'm here to help. We have a planning consultation to chat about your unique business, and how you intend to use your content so that I can make some suggestions and offer ideas that you may not have thought about before. We end our consultation with a step-by-step plan so that we can make the most out of our shoot day.

2 - Outfits

I picked out 3 outfits that I wanted to be photographed in. They were casual, and straight out of my wardrobe so I knew I would be comfortable and feel myself. I did however use the excuse to buy that new pair of jeans I had my eye on! Although I didn't actually use the last outift, I knew it was there if I needed it. In our planning conversation, I'm also going to help you pick out outfits that are going to suit your own person style as well as your brand, but will also photograph well. And if need be, there are some amazing stylists right here in Sydney that can work with you to help you feel and look amazing.

3 - Let Go of control

I'm a big ol' control freak, so found it quite difficult handing over something that I'm good at to someone else. But I had to tell myself to leave it up to the photographer. Yes, I shared my plan and vision with her, and she was amazing not only creating what I wanted, but also adding in her own creative flair, having me try things I would never have done if it was just me and my tripod. So definitely let go, and have fun! Having your personal brand photos done is a creative and collaborative process and can lead to results you never thought possible.

4 - Use the photos straight away

Don't just let the photos sit on your hard drive, but get them working for you straight away. I've gone ahead and updated the photos on my two websites janellekeysphotography.com.au and janellekeyscreative.com, and also started sharing them on social media.

I have a bit of a confession though. Posting photos of myself actually causes me a bit of anxiety, so I have an assistant do it for me. I've given her a folder of my favourite photos and some caption ideas, with the strict instructions not to let me know when my photos are being posted. It's a surprise. Then it gets done without me getting in my own way. Yes, it's even hard for a photographer, but that's how important I think it is to be the face of your brand and connect with your audience.

As well as the tips I’ve just shared, there’s also a few things that I’ll do differently next time I update my personal branding photos.
Next time I will….

5 - Allocate More time

This particular shoot, I squeezed in amongst other shoots, but next time I'd plan the day better so I wasn't so rushed - maybe even do a full day! Even though it’s the kind of thing we sometimes want to get ‘over and done with’, however, once you’re in the rhythm of the photoshoot, why not create as much value and as many images as you can, to give you content that will last you for ages. As busy working people, with so many other conflicts and busyness, it is hard to carve out this intentional time. So once you do, I’d say maximise it. It’s part of the reason my Luxe Branding Experience is so popular!

6 - Professional hair & makeup

Next time, I’ll get my hair and makeup done professionally. Part of the reason I didn’t this time was as I said above, I didn’t leave enough time in my day for those extra touches. Brand photos are all about telling your story to your audience. For our customers to have confidence in us, we need to display ourselves in a confident manner and I think that having someone there for touchups and pampering on the day would have given me a little extra oomph. Amanda Maree Makeup - I need you!!!

7 - Plan a Haircut & Colour

Although I spent ample time thinking about the ins and outs of the day itself, my outfits, desired shots and the like, next time I’d like to plan in advance to get my hair cut and coloured the week before. It’s a small touch, but again it’s part of the confidence and recognisability that I feel is important. These photos are going on my website, socials and marketing materials, which means there’s a chance people will see this photo before they see me! I’d like that image to be my freshest self and for an investment like branding photos, I’d encourage you to plan your shoot far enough in advance that you can also schedule in your hair treatments.

Well, I hope my honest thoughts have been helpful. As an advocate for strong, professional and cohesive marketing, I hope you’re encouraged by the fact that even for me it was something I was nervous to do. But I did it anyway and I’m so glad I did. I look forward to planning your personal branding photoshoot and guiding you through the process to elevating your brand to the next level. A big shoutout to Mel Hayes Photography, who took these photos of me in action and Belle Heath Estate the stunning location we used to make the magic happen.