Getting Ready for Your Brand Photos

There are a few things left to consider after we’ve chosen your location. This guide will help you get dressed and mentally prepared to take your best photos! If you have an idea, please let me know. Every client has their own style, and I love to honor that. I’ll also offer up my best recommendations on how to bring that to life!

Outfits

While certain colors and styles work really well with my editing, it’s important that you get to show off your unique style. If you have something you love and want to wear, you can always send me photos for a little text style consultation! I recommend a minimum of two outfits, even if we only end up using one. The first outfit should include how your clients will see you. The second should be something you would wear to weekend plans (nicer but casual) or be something you would wear to work. In the images above, Susan chose an outfit she would wear if she was attending a gallery opening or a casual public speaking event. Her second outfit was something she wears to work, dried paint and clay included!

Here’s a list of considerations to ensure your outfits highlight you in the very best way.

Tips

• Bold, neutral, and jewel-toned colors work great with my editing style and suit all skin tones
• Wear layers and flowy clothing to add movement
• Large prints and textures add visual interest
• Skip any neon or fluorescent colors – they cast unwanted colors on your skin
• Consider undergarment lines and straps
• Steam or iron your outfits, if needed
• Add accessories like jackets, belts, and hats
Note: Skip any hats that sit low on the forehead – they can create a shadow over your lovely face
• Think about your hair and skin
• Nails should be clean and in your preferred style

Props

Part of telling the story of your work may include props. What does a standard work day look like for you? Are you trying to convey to your clients that you are easy to reach? Include a phone! Want a customer to know you have an eye for detail?

Mental Prep

The most important part of your upcoming session is the authentic moments we’ll create. My goal is to make photos feel less like a chore, and more like a celebration of your business!

act natural

Ok, I know that’s easier said than done. But the trick to great photos is leaning into the passion you have for your business. We’ll get plenty of “smile for the camera” moments… but I would also love to see you doing what you love!

keep it light

The best way to get kids to smile is by keeping it light. I know that you want *perfect* photos (I promise, I want that for you to) and the best way to get those is to start and end the session with authentic smiles and action! While I respect each family’s parenting style, I do recommend that no discipline take place before or during the session. (Want to know how to get your kid excited about your upcoming session? Click here!) It’s much easier for me to re-direct kids or play games instead of parents breaking the fun to stop perceived misbehavior. I don’t perform well when I feel like I’m in trouble, and I’m guessing your kiddos don’t, either.

think like your kids

Do they crack up at a certain voice? Let’s hear it! Do they break into a grin when they hear a specific song? Have that song loaded on your phone and get ready to dance, mama! Parents set the mood, and your little ones probably watched you prep for this session. Show them just how exciting and fun family photos can be.

anticipate needs

Feel free to bring a snack and/or water bottle. Pack your props and additional outfits