How to Prepare for Your First Brand Photoshoot

Lights, camera… brand elevation!

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Creative content writer with a knack for storytelling that connects. Wielder of wit, turning “meh” into magic daily.

Shay
June 5, 2025

Lights, camera… brand elevation!

When most people hear “brand photoshoot,” the first thing they stress about is… clothes. What should I wear? Should I go bold or neutral? Heels or sneakers? And while your outfit matters, it’s far from the most important thing.

A successful brand photoshoot is more than just dressing up for the camera. It’s a visual strategy session focused on showcasing your story, personality, and professionalism in a way that resonates with your dream audience across platforms.

At Branderah Photography Studio, we work with small businesses, personal brands, and creatives to create scroll-stopping images that reflect who you are and what you’re building. If you're ready to upgrade from blurry selfies and generic stock photos to intentional content, this is your prep guide to do it right.

Let’s get into it. 

1. Define Your Brand Visual Identity

Before selecting outfits or booking a session, be clear about what your brand entails. Are you playful or polished? Bold or soft? Minimalist or maximalist?

If your brand vibe isn’t quite defined yet, check out this post on creating a cohesive Instagram aesthetic. That same energy should guide your shoot.

If you have defined your brand identity, move to the next step.

2. Build a Mood Board

Gather inspiration on Pinterest or Instagram using keywords like “brand shoot,” “creative portraits,” or “business lifestyle photography”, mainly keywords related to your brand. 

Save poses, lighting styles, locations, and even props that feel aligned with your brand. Bringing this visual to your photographer (hi, that’s us at Branderah) helps create shared expectations and keeps everyone on the same page.

Pro tip: Don’t copy, interpret. Your photos should reflect you, not a carbon copy of someone else’s feed.

3. Choose the Right Outfits

Think of clothing as your visual voice. It should support the story, not distract from it.

Quick tips:

- Stick to 2–3 outfits with consistent color palettes.

- Avoid small prints, logos, and overly trendy pieces.

- Choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.

- Bring options! It’s always better to have backups.

4. Plan for Props & Products

What tools or products are essential to your business? If you’re a makeup artist, bring brushes and palettes. A wellness coach? Maybe tea, journals, or crystals. A fashion brand? Bring your pieces and hangers for styling shots.

Props make the session feel natural, and they give your hands something to do. 

Also, don’t forget:

- Business cards

- Laptop, phone, or tablet

- Notebooks, packaging, books, etc.

5. Professional Grooming

Even if you're going for a natural look, professional grooming is key. Book a makeup artist or stylist if you can. Good lighting will highlight everything, so aim to look polished and fresh.

Guys, this includes you. Clean grooming, moisturized skin, and tidy clothes go a long way.

6. Scout the Right Photographer (Branderah’s Got You)

Photography style matters just as much as editing and lighting. At Branderah’s Photography Studio, we specialize in:

- Creative brand shoots

- Individual & Group Photography

- Event & Wedding Photography

- Maternity, Newborn & Kids Photography

7. Think in Content

Plan for different photo orientations:

- Portrait for Reels covers and stories

- Landscape for websites and blog banners

- Square for Instagram grid cohesion

Create a mini content calendar for your next 30 days. Then shoot with that in mind.

Final Prep Tips Before Shoot Day:

- Hydrate and sleep well the night before

- Steam or iron your clothes ahead of time

- Arrive early to settle in and review your mood board


Ready to take your visuals to the next level? Our team at Branderah Studio is prepared to help. Whether you’re rebranding, just launching, or just need fresh content, we make your brand shoots feel easy and fun.

Send a WhatsApp message to book your shoot or reach out to us via Instagram @branderah.  

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