Have you ever wondered what a professional brand photoshoot really looks like? Today, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a half-day brand photoshoot I recently worked on with one of our amazing clients, Lori of Lori Mackeil Designs.

Lori works with interior designers and architects. She has a custom drapery workroom located at Medway Mills in Medway, MA. 

When Lori approached me about her brand photoshoot, we started with a conversation about her goals. Anytime I work with a new client, I send over a questionnaire to get a clearer idea of what they intend to use their images for—for example, websites, social media, bios, marketing collateral, a launch, a celebration, change for a new season, or content planning.

In Lori’s case, she’s in the process of working towards a website redesign. Working with her goals in mind, we planned some styled design sets that showcase the way she works with her clients—taking measurements, reviewing fabrics, planning for installations, etc.

Because Lori is also located in the same space as the studio, we added a setup inside her gorgeous drapery workroom showing her at work. 

When you’re planning for your brand photos, it’s important to think about the relationship between your images and your messaging. 

Whether you’re preparing social media content, updating your website, creating blogs, or launching a new course, your brand photos should reflect the overall message you’re trying to communicate.

It’s also important to think about how your images will resonate with your audience. The right photos will immediately connect with your ideal client. They should also repel people who aren’t your ideal client.

For example, do you work with high-level executives? Then a high-end, professional photoshoot is in order. Is your brand polished, sophisticated, and classic? Is it relaxed and chic? Whatever the feel of your brand is,  you want photos that represent that, so your dream clients are attracted to you. 

Your photos should take your ideal client on a journey and show them how they’ll feel when they work with you. Use your photos to fully represent your brand message, so your ideal clients know you care for them. 

Think About Support Beyond the Photographer

When you’re planning a brand photoshoot, you know you need to be on the lookout for a superstar photographer… But what about the other support you will need in achieving your vision?

During my shoot with Lori (and all my brand photoshoots), I provide a wardrobe and style consultation, guidance with posing, and hair and makeup experts to ensure my clients look their best on their big day. For us, this includes:

🌟 Hair & Makeup Artists (I love @versastylesbynina for our shoots)

🌟 Wardrobe Consultations to choose the best outfits to represent your brand

🌟 Styled Design Sets to reflect your brand & the way you work

🌟 Posing Guidance to help you look natural, warm, and inviting on camera

Remember—teamwork makes the dream work! It’s important to think about your brand photoshoot as a comprehensive experience, not just an opportunity to show up and take some pictures.

Supplemental Materials

In the digital age, we all know the importance of having high quality photo AND video content. While I specialize in brand photography, I love to provide clients with some surprise supplemental materials they can share to promote their brand online.

In Lori’s case, we created an Instagram Reel showcasing the behind-the-scenes of her photoshoot. In it, she shares how she prepares to leave her workroom for a drapery installation day. You can check it out here. 

As you plan your own brand photoshoot, don’t be afraid to ask your photographer whether they’d be able to support you in creating additional video content. The answer may not always be yes, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask!

Should You Plan Your Own Brand Photoshoot?

Brand photoshoots are a must for any serious entrepreneur. Ideally, scheduling consistent shoots on a regular basis will keep you stocked up on personal brand photos & give you a never-ending supply of beautiful photos to showcase your brand online. 

Having brand photos you love is key to showing up authentically and professionally online. If you aren’t in love with the way your brand appears on your website or social media, scheduling a brand photoshoot is a simple and highly effective way to immediately elevate your brand’s virtual presence.

In the Medway, MA area? We’re gearing up our studio for spring. To celebrate, get up to $200 off until February 15th! Learn more & lock in your session right here.