I recently had my photos taken by my friend, Eliana Park Photography. The photos turned out so fun, so I want to share what I learned and how I prepared for a successful shoot.
Planned 3-4 outfits:
I planned 3-4 quick outfit changes that fit my brand colors. Since my studio is neutral toned, I added in the color tones of my brand into the clothing I wore.
Here's some quick tips:
- Plan your outfits in a way that is flattering for your body shape.
- Be sure to layer.
- Having multiple tops to switch up quickly, can give a whole new outfit vibe.
Went to Pinterest for some inspiration:
I wanted to see what was trending and to gather some ideas. While I didn't get to do all the ideas I had in mind, I did create a shot list of absolute musts since I knew I was revamping my websites.
Here's some quick tips:
- Plan for a mix of wide, medium, and tight shots. (your photographer should be already doing this, but it's always good to communicate what you are looking for.
- I went to my website and made a list of what I needed and exactly for which page. This helped me to know I needed x amount of verticals versus wide shots.
- Think through creative shots you can do with props and items that reflect your brand.
Be Authentically You:
I get that we can feel the pressure to go all out on buying new clothing and getting our hair and makeup done. There's nothing wrong with this, but consider how you will remain authentically you. You have no idea how many client's have chosen to do professional makeup and then didn't like their photos because it didn't look like them since they don't wear makeup everyday.
Here's some quick tips:
- Stay connected to your "why." This will help guide your outfit choices, props and more.
- Go for a natural makeup vibe is you don't typically wear makeup.
- Be sure to have access to.a mirror so you can do a fit check before getting in front of the camera.
Let go of perfection:
Like real talk, we are our own worst critic. The point of a brand photo shoot, at least to me, is to tell your brand story in a way that is authentic and joyful. Let this truth motivate us to let go of perfection. The hair is going to be misplaced, you may not like how your shirt looked in a photo, but that's okay! The more present and connected we are to our why, the more we can let go, and just have fun with it!
Hire a photographer you trust & feel safe with:
This is so important. Make sure you work with a photographer that you trust and are comfortable with their style and approach. Some photographers don't pose or guide you at all. Are you okay with that? If not, maybe you want to work with a photographer who does natural guided poses to help making the process comfortable for you. Knowing what you need from your photographer and communicating it well is key!
Well that's it friend!!! Have you done a brand photo shoot? How did it go for you?
Until next time,
xoxo your friend,
Jasmine
 
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