Better Brand Photos - Make the Most of your Shoot!
It will be a blur. And you’ll be glad you were prepared!
We had a photoshoot last weekend! And it was so fun. My Associate, Krista, and I finally got some shots together. There were many props! So many laughs.
And more lessons learned.
This was my 3rd shoot in about three years. Each time, I vow to get it right next time! Even with lots of prep, there are always a few regrets and missed opportunities I see after the fact - either for a smoother shoot, or, more importantly, better brand photos!
Here are a few lessons learned I thought I'd share with you, in case you want to bypass the (costly) learning curve of a photoshoot gone awry.
Photo Credits: Ashley at The Notley Creative
ONE: Have Help
If it’s just you and the photographer, things will get missed. Having a stylist or a neat-freak friend who can watch for bra straps, shiny foreheads, and maybe even stop a car from parking right behind the place you just decided to pose? Very valuable. Let your photographer focus on the lighting, the shots, the composition, and making you comfortable. If your photographer doesn’t bring somebody else along to help, bring them yourself.
(Oh, and they’ll watch your purse while you’re posing on a busy sidewalk!)
TWO: You'll be Starving. You Will Need Water.
There’s not much more to say on this one, though for some reason it always surprises me. If your shoot is more than 30 minutes, eat well in advance. Bring snacks. Bring SO much water.
Another no-brainer comfort tip? If you’re walking around, bring good walking shoes. Should be obvious I know, and I learned this the hard way.
THREE: Get a Preview!
Ask your photographer to see some shots to make sure you're liking how things come together. Do this after each location change, each wardrobe change. Up to you!
Had I done this during my last shoot, I would have immediately noticed how my choice of jeans did not work with my outfit and the vibe we were going for. And I could have adjusted the direction, or changed.
(You will see them... and you will agree! )
So, speak up and ask! (And test your wardrobe choices in good lighting, too.)
FOUR: Skip the Shy Part
Many of us feel silly getting our photo taken. I'm no exception! Especially in public where people can see me posing. And so when I look back over my photoshoots, I see just how many potentially awesome shots I wasted by not being comfortable. Cheesy smiles and laughs that aren’t me. Wiggling around like a goof. Holding back because I’m afraid that somebody’s going to think that I think I’m a supermodel. The results aren’t as cute as they sound!
This is your permission to SKIP that part. You’re there for a reason: to tell the story of your brand so you can realize your vision. You’re doing this for your business. For your clients. This is NOT self-indulgent. And you’re beautiful. So get out there and get your photo taken like you mean it… right from the start.
FIVE: Have a Plan.
And do I have tips for the plan? I do! And I share all the details on how we build out shot lists for ourselves and our clients in part two of this series.
Photoshoots should be fun! These are some ways to help you make sure they are.
Stay Inspired!
- Lisa