Are you thinking about doing a brand photoshoot but unsure where to start? Or maybe you’ve already booked a date and want to make sure you’re totally prepared. Either way, showing up to your shoot with a photographer and a few outfits isn’t enough to get the brand photos that create a great first impression, boost engagement, and support a cohesive marketing strategy. I’m here to help! I created a FREE, downloadable brand photoshoot checklist and timeline for you so you can make sure you’ve got everything covered. In this post, I’m also sharing 5 often-overlooked steps you don’t want to skip before stepping in front of the camera.

As a brand photographer, I guide my clients through pre-planning and strategy to make sure their shoots are a success. Too many business owners miss key steps that can make or break their results, and I want you to get the brand photos you need! Let’s get into it!

Don’t Miss These 5 Steps Before Your Brand Photoshoot (+ Download Your Free Brand Photoshoot Checklist)

01. Hire Experts

The right team can take your brand photoshoot to the next level. Start by choosing a brand photographer who specializes in working with businesses like yours. Then, consider adding a hair and makeup artist to help you look polished on camera (and skip the stress of DIY-ing!). A wardrobe stylist can help curate outfits that flatter you and reflect your brand. And if video content is part of your strategy, a videographer can capture footage alongside your photos.

Decide what is most valuable to you. Experts can save you time, energy, and stress and add a layer of professionalism to your shots. The investment is often worth it! With the right team, you can focus on being in front of the camera and getting the shots you need.

02. Set Clear Goals

One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is booking a brand photoshoot just because they think they should. Before your shoot, take a step back and define your why.

If your answer is “I need photos for social media,” go deeper. What do you want those photos to accomplish? Will they increase engagement, position you as an expert, or add a professional edge to your brand? What specific impact do you want them to have on your business?

A brand photoshoot isn’t another task to check off your list. It’s an opportunity to create images that drive your business forward. Getting clear on your goals now will help you make the most of your time in front of the camera.

03. Map Out a Shot List

The best brand shoots start with a custom shot list. Instead of winging it, plan ahead to make sure you check off every shot you need.

A great starting point? Download my free guide, the Brand Photoshoot Shot List: 7 Must-Have Photos for Any Industry. It outlines the 7 essential types of brand photos every business should have.

From there, customize your list based on your business and marketing needs. In my course Brand Shoot Essentials, I give you a detailed guide with 50+ shot ideas and a shot list template you can customize for your business.

Don’t forget to add any specific compositions you might need, like images with negative space for text overlays. The more intentional you are with your shot list, the more strategic and useful your final images will be.

04. Choose a Cohesive Color Scheme

Brand photos that feel cohesive and emotionally impactful don’t happen by accident. One of the easiest ways to create a professional look? Stick to your brand color palette!

Start with your core brand colors and mix in neutrals to keep things balanced (and avoid looking matchy-matchy). Your color scheme should flow through your shoot, from outfits, props, locations, and small details like accessories or nail color.

A consistent color palette makes your photos instantly recognizable and creates a more impactful visual experience for your audience.

05. Practice Poses & Prep the Details

If you’re nervous about being on camera (who isn’t!?), the best way to feel more confident is to practice. You might feel silly, but try posing in front of a mirror or taking test shots on your phone. This will help you find natural and flattering poses without experimenting for the first time on shoot day.

And don’t forget to prep the small details! Schedule a nail appointment, steam your outfits, and pack an essentials kit (think makeup for touch-ups, snacks, etc.). These little things can make a big difference in helping you feel comfortable on shoot day.

P.S. Want to dive deeper into any of these 5 steps? Head to my post, How to Plan a Personal Brand Photoshoot!

Download Your Free Brand Photoshoot Checklist

Feeling overwhelmed with all of these must-do’s? Don’t worry, I’ve got you!

I put together a FREE brand photoshoot checklist and timeline to walk you through each step, so you know exactly what to do and when. From choosing a photographer to final shoot day prep, this guide will help you stay on track and avoid last-minute stress. Download your checklist below!