A branding session is more than just a photoshoot
Your branding session certainly is more than just a "photo shoot;" it’s a powerful tool to showcase who you are, what your business represents, and what sets you apart. Why should your "ideal client/customer" choose you? There are so many choices out there, which is why you need to stand out. Whether you're a small business owner, a freelancer, or the face of your brand, having professional images that capture your essence is invaluable.
But how do you prepare to get the most out of your session?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your branding shoot is a success.
1. Understand Your Brand Identity
Before you step in front of the camera, take some time to clarify your brand’s core message.
I'm answering in green for my Wedding Photography side of the business.
Photo Credit: Natalie Coultas Photography. I hope these images showcase my friendly and approachable personality. I love capturing movement and being active, so the shots of me swirling around in the field seemed perfectly fitting. I chose outside to top up my headshot images because that's where I work most and where I love to be.
What does your business stand for? (Mine is authentic fun photography, often for camera-shy people.)
What kind of mood or tone do you want your photos to convey? (e.g., professional, fun, approachable, luxurious?) (Me: Friendly, relaxed approachable)
Who is your ideal client, and how do you want to connect with them visually? (So the couples I'd like to attract are...Fun and down-to-earth, they're outdoorsy and care deeply about the atmosphere of their day being captured in a relaxed, unstaged manner without loads of posing, they often need a confidence boost in front of the camera, many of which are animal lovers too.)
Having these answers will help us both create images that feel authentic and purposeful for you to showcase your brand.




2. Choose the Right Photographer
Not all photographers specialise in branding, so take your time finding someone who understands your vision. Look through their portfolio to see if their style aligns with your brand. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their process, especially how they’ll help you feel confident in front of the camera.
I'm told by so many people that I put them at ease and make the process of having their photos taken easy, in all honestly, I'm not sure how I put people at ease; I'm just myself, and I share my insecurities and worries because this makes me feel better if I'm worried about something. I consider this when I'm working with my couples, families and clients. It's about keeping things relaxed, distracting you from the camera and then once I can see you're more comfortable, we work on the more formal headshots, etc.









3. Plan Your Locations
The setting plays a huge role in telling your story. Think about the locations that resonate with your brand.
Do you run a cosy coffee shop or a modern studio? (I'd like photos of me in my workspace to help my clients connect with where I'm working when I'm not behind the camera.)
Would outdoor shots in natural light suit your vibe, or do you need a sleek indoor office setup? (I'd definitely go for this; I'm usually outdoors when working, so for me, it would work well.)
Are there iconic elements of your town or industry you want to incorporate? (My friend does all her engagement sessions in York so it would make sense for her to have some headshots in front of an iconic building in the city centre.)
If you’re unsure, I'd be happy to suggest ideas to match your brand identity.
Photo Credit: Natalie Coultas Photography. These were taken during a break at a wedding I was photographing, I love farm weddings, so the tractor with the flowers on made the perfect loaction for me to have a few casual photos done, I was wearing wedding attire and had my camera's with me as props. I like that I'm looking away in some on the images as this portrays my natural candid style of photography, which my brand focuses on.
4. Prepare Your Outfits
Clothing is key to creating the right look for your session. Choose outfits that:
Reflect your style and brand colours. (Muted, earthy tones for me; I often add floral or subtle animal print patterns.)
Fit well and make you feel confident. I have a blog dedicated to outfits, take a look here.
Are appropriate for the settings you’ll be photographed in.



Pro tip: Bring a variety of outfits—formal, casual, and something in between—so you have options for different platforms and uses.
5. Props and Tools of Your Trade
Props help tell your story. Think about items that are central to what you do, such as:
Laptops, sketchpads, or notebooks for business-related shots. (Me, my camera and laptop.)
Products you sell or tools you use in your work. (Fine Art Photobook & Framed Prints.)
Personal touches like your favourite coffee cup or a piece of décor from your workspace. (I have a favourite mug.)



These elements help create authenticity and give viewers a sense of who you are.
6. Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
You don’t need to look completely different for your session, but professional hair and makeup can give you a polished, camera-ready finish. If your branding is more laid-back, go with a natural look that feels true to you.
Don’t forget to groom details like nails, haircuts, and ironing your outfits—small touches make a big difference!
(For me, I do my hair best and too much make-up doesn't feel like me, so I'd do my own. It's up to you.)


7. Communicate with Your Photographer
A good photographer will work with you to create a shot list or discuss your ideas ahead of time. Share your:
Vision and goals for the session. (To get images that show BTS footage making me look professional and approachable.)
Any must-have shots or poses. (Me behind my desk working, some shots of me arranging people for family formals, photos of me working closely with the couple and some of me capturing candids and details. I'd also like some of me with my animals, dog/horse in the new building plot we've bought, so I can use this as connection content on socials and my about me page.)
How you plan to use the images (e.g., social media, website, print materials).
The more I know as your photographer, the better I can tailor the session to your needs.

8. Relax and Trust the Process
Feeling nervous is natural, but remember—you don’t have to do this alone! I'll be there to guide you, whether it’s finding your best angles or helping you feel at ease.
A branding session isn’t about perfection; it’s about capturing your essence. Be yourself, enjoy the process, and let your personality shine through.
9. Think Beyond the Shoot
Once you’ve had your session, think about how you’ll use your images:
Refresh your website.
Post regularly on social media.
Use them for email marketing, press features, or business cards.
These images are an investment, so make the most of them by integrating them into every part of your brand presence.
Final Thoughts on Branding Sessions
A branding session is an opportunity to showcase the heart of your business and connect with your audience on a deeper level. By preparing in advance and working closely with your photographer, you’ll walk away with a gallery of images that not only look amazing but also tell the story of who you are and what you do.
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