Behind the Scenes of my Brand Photoshoot.
Ever wondered what a Branding and Design Start Up gets up to behind the scenes?
Well, here’s a little insight into the recent brand photoshoot I did with Denise Leacock Photography - effectively closing the loop on my own branding project which I started last year.
I knew how important it was for my own brand to tell a transformation story.
We all love a look at how something is made...and who is making it! I wanted to consistently tell that story and show my process (as best I can) through my own brand images.
As a service based business, I wasn’t sure at the beginning how I was going to do that. The majority of my work is done on a laptop, but having completed a in-depth brief with Denise, we got a clear idea of how we would do that.
I am a very tactile person. I still sketch out ideas on paper before I hit the iPad or laptop. Denise wanted to make sure that prospective clients knew that the process I would take them on is transformative. It’s not a quick line here and some text there. It’s a tried and tested process, which includes deep dive consultations, tests and trials, presentations and revisions. Every detail is considered, and has its decisions rooted in the strategy we create together at the start of the process.
“I’ve had to adapt, reinvent and change with the ever changing world around me. Moving cities, up-skilling, failing, learning and stretching myself to always do better. I’m eclectic - I’m not a straight line.”
The above summed up the theme for the shoot. I wanted to show the eclectic side of working with me, the experience and creative passion I bring to every job I take on.
My brand photos
How to prepare for a brand shoot
For those of you who may be considering a rebrand or even starting an online presence for your business, below are a few helpful tips to consider if you want to include brand photography in to your strategy.
Start with the feeling
What sort of mood do you want to create with your photos? Is your brand fun and quirky or is it classic and romantic? This will drive the tone of the images you will want to create and, perhaps, the photographer you work with.
List the shots and props you need
Put the homework in and the day will go much smoother! Never (ever) go to a photoshoot unprepared. This includes wardrobe and hair etc. In a previous life I did photos for a local businesses, and one owner showed up with a shirt that has been rolled up in a ball in a bag. I’ll say no more…
How will your choice of clothes fit in with your overall brand image? What is your business selling? If it’s products, then which of them are the most attractive to photograph or sell the most? If you are a service based business (like me) how can you tell your story through props?
Plan a suitable location
I used an AirB&B in Northern Ireland, as where I am living at the moment just didn’t feel right for the aesthetic I wanted. Reach out to the owner and see if they can do a deal for a morning shoot - that way they still can have guests come/go. Where we went was light, bright and a perfect neutral base for photos. If you are lucky enough to work in a well designed space (office or home) then you are luck. Just make sure you have access to plenty of natural light.
Research images that inspire you
Research images for poses, wardrobe and props that inspire you. This will also give you confidence on the day with a visual tick list to go through.
Be realistic about time
The day goes really fast, especially if you have a lot of set up to do. There’s also a bit of trail and error too so do not underestimate the amount of time you will need.
Have FUN, laugh and be grateful
Don’t forget to have fun! If you are in the lucky position to be doing something that you love, embrace the experience and outcomes of the day.
