Brand sessions vary as much as brands themselves vary. Each have a different intention, are aimed at different clientele and have a different aesthetic. But almost every brand session has main aspects in common. So here is a list of five key shots to think about when planning your next branding session.
The first of the key shots is…..a new headshot of course. You may really like your last headshot. But updating your headshot regularly will help you stay connected to your client. And let’s face it…everyone can tell if you are still using a headshot from 2005. Also, did you know that when you update your profile photo on Facebook, it pushes that out more than any other post?! Crazy, right? So if you’re regularly updating your profile photo (don’t go crazy of course, but at least once or twice a year), you stay in front of your clients. Visibility is key when it comes to winning your share of the market. And this is one of the easiest ways to stay visible.
The second very important shot has to do with behind-the-scenes. Show yourself doing the part that most people don’t see. Are you a chef? Show the preparation of a dish. Are you a wedding photographer? You don’t just need a photo of you behind the camera. You take a lot of time creating the perfect flat lay…show the process. Are you an artist? Show the process of mixing the exact shade of green you need for your latest commission.
The third of the key shots you will need to capture is your actual product. If it’s a physical product, that goes without saying. That’s most likely the main focus of your session. If it’s a digital product or it’s a service, it may be more difficult to identify how to photograph it. Or if you’re a brand developer, it may be a mockup of fonts, colors and brand assets. If you’re a real estate agent, it may be a close up of you handing a key to your clients. If you’re a barista, it will most likely be your signature latte art.
The fourth essential shot is one people don’t often think of. This is one that sets you apart from your competition. Is that your sense of humor? Your attention to detail? Your fierce negotiation skills? Do you have a part of your process that your clients say made the whole experience perfect? Are you more community-minded than your competitors? You may need to think outside the box for how to portray this in a photo. But these images have the chance to make more of an impact than the rest. This will connect you to your clients on an emotional level.
And finally, the last of the key shots is….drumroll please….what it looks like from the client’s perspective. This shows clients what to expect when working with you. This can include a “client” from the back or it could just be what the client would see. If you’re a photographer, it could be you standing on your tippy toes or laying on your back to get the shot. Or if you’re a realtor, it could be you opening the door to welcome them into a showing. If you’re a doctor, it could be a patient initial consultation.
Likely you will be getting WAY more than five images in your next branding photography session, but make sure to bring up these five key shots when you have your “get to know you” call with your branding photographer. You won’t regret it 😉
Happy planning!
