Sometimes, preparing for your brand session can leave you more anxious than excited. That’s because you might not even know where to begin! Trust me, I understand. I’m here for you!
I’ve written out all my best tips for preparing for your brand session and the ideal timeline to follow leading up to our session together! I hope this blog makes you feel less anxious and more excited because that excitement will shine in your photos!
Some Jocelyn Cruz Tips on Looking Your Best
When Preparing For Your Session
Clothing Tips
Clothing is an extension of personality, just like your personal brand is. Fashion uses the body as a canvas you design on. Your personal branding photo session combines your brand and style, so what you wear needs to represent both. Below are the top five tips for choosing clothes as you prepare for your session.
- Pick things you would wear to work. After all, these photos are going to be part of your personal brand and should reflect your everyday business style.
- Use a few different outfits. These outfits can differentiate your photos for various purposes. For example, the most professional shots might be taken in a neutral outfit, while the fun ones might be in your brand colors.
- Accessorize. The little details matter in professional photographs. These details include belts, shoes, ties, scarves, cuff links, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, etc., depending on your outfit selections.
- Test drive your outfits. Try on your outfits to see how they feel, especially as you move. You can always change it up if one doesn’t work for you.
- Contact me. I’m here to help! You can always email or text me with photos of things you’re considering or to ask for advice. I’ve been doing personal brand photography for years, so together, we can find flattering looks for you.
Hair Tips
Your hair is part of your shoot too, so leaving it to do its own thing is counterproductive. The first step in this journey is finding a hair specialist. If you don’t already have a favorite, I have a list of people I’ve worked with before that clients have raved about.
From there, you should send or show your stylist potential hairstyles you’re considering, along with the basic idea of your photo shoot. Many can work from a single image from a magazine or the internet, so don’t be shy. Ask their opinions on how that style would work with your hair, and even do a test style to see how it looks with your outfits and makeup.
Once you pick a style, your hair specialist should be able to tell you how long he or she needs to set that style up. You’re going to build that time in on the morning of your photo session. Remember to leave enough time to commute.
Makeup Tips
Makeup for a personal branding photo session is a little different. The idea is to emphasize your features without overstating the makeup. Also, there’s the camera to consider. Makeup always looks different on camera than it does in the mirror.
The first step is to find a makeup artist. Some hair specialists are part of a beauty team, so this may not be difficult. Otherwise, I have a list of people my previous clients have used and adored. From there, you’ll consult with your chosen makeup artist.
During the consultation, you’ll want to bring up the hairstyle(s) you’re considering and your brand theming elements. Your artist may be able to work your brand colors in subtly. If possible, you should test the makeup with the outfits and hair you’re considering.
Once you’ve picked a style, your makeup artist should be able to give you a timeframe so you can build your photoshoot morning schedule. Remember to build in commute time, especially if your hairstylist is at a different location.
A Timeline For Getting Ready Before Your Session
PLANNING AHEAD
Once you start to prepare for your personal branding session, it’s a good idea to start collecting ideas. Whether you prefer to cut out of magazines, start a Pinterest board, or write a list, these choices help us do the personal branding photography session of your dreams. You can look for poses, clothes, hair, props, and more to express your brand.
ONE MONTH BEFORE
This time is the brainstorming part, so you’re going to focus on your brand. You’ll take all the things that make your brand unique and write them down. During this period, we’ll schedule your consultation appointment to discuss your brand, outfits, and more before your shoot.
ONE WEEK BEFORE
This period is where the physical preparations start. You should have a list of all the outfits, accessories, and props you want to use during your shoot. It’s time to start moving them all into a specific area, so when your shoot comes, you’re ready to roll. We’ll also be texting or emailing to confirm the final details. Do you feel prepared for your session yet? You should!
TWO DAYS BEFORE
Now is the time to double-check your clothes. Make sure they’ve been laundered and pressed recently per their care instructions. Place them in a garment bag to prevent wrinkles. Additionally, place your shoes in a separate container, so there’s no risk of dirt on your clothes. Accessories and props also need to be stored, so they don’t tangle.
THE NIGHT BEFORE
At this point, you’ll need to triple-check your list of items to bring. I recommend only checking something off if it’s packed up already. Make sure you get a good night’s sleep, so you look your best for the photos.
THE MORNING OF
If applicable, you’ll see the hair and makeup artists first. They should have supplied a rough time estimate, so make sure you stick to the schedule. Then, I’ll meet you at your chosen location, and we’ll do your branding photoshoot. It’s all smooth sailing from there.
I hope these insightful tips help you prepare for your branding session in a better way! You deserve to be excited about your brand session, not anxious. We want all that you are to shine!
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If you want to learn more about how to prepare for your special day or what to expect from a branding session, read my Branding Session FAQ’s here. You can also head to my Instagram for other branding tips!
