BRANDING PHOTOGRAPHY
I was desperately in need of some headshots so I arranged for Kerry to do a branding photography session for me. Kerry and I were on the same photography course together so choosing my photographer was easy! I needed a selection of images that I could use on my website and social media that captured the REAL me. I’m usually the one behind the camera not in front and this experience made me realise that there were some key bits of advice that I could pass on to my clients ahead of their sessions to help them prepare, so here are my 5 tips!
TIP 1 – LOOK FOR INSPIRATION
In the weeks leading up to your session start a Pinterest board or perhaps make some cuttings from magazines or newspapers of photos that you like. The aim of a photoshoot is to capture the REAL you but there’s no harm in looking for inspiration and thinking about how to pose.
It’s important to remember that your photographer or me, if you book me, will have their own style and these photos will help your photographer or me to get an insight into what your expectations are.
TIP 2 – LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
Is there somewhere special to you? Perhaps you want to be close to home? My preference is always to shoot outdoors in natural light and love taking people to woodlands or country parks (weather permitting). Fancy venues or locations aren’t always necessary – the photo of me above was taken in a back garden. Even when shooting in someones home I will utlise natural light through windows, so keep that in mind.
If your preferred location is somewhere that gets busy at the weekends perhaps choose a quiet time to organise the shoot. Remember, the best light is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The hour leading up to sunset is called the ‘golden hour’ and can create beautiful light perfect for portraits.
TIP 3 – WHAT TO WEAR
I thought long and hard before the shoot as I didn’t know what to wear, in the end I decided on a couple of outfits. In terms of clothing, I would recommend solid colours and avoiding big logos, graphics or busy patterns. If you’re having a group photo think about wearing outfits which complement each other, in style or colour.
TIP 4 – THINK ABOUT GETTING YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP DONE
I’m not usually one for makeup and I still wanted to look like ‘me’ but I booked a make up artist, Karleigh Marsh for the morning of the shoot. She stuck to the brief and used natural tones and pale shade which looked fabulous through the lens of the camera but didn’t make me look too made-up. It’s entirely up to you but having your hair and makeup done will also make you feel more confident on the day and this will show in the final images.
TIP 5 – MAKE IT PERSONAL
Feel free to bring along a prop or activity to do. Perhaps it’s flowers, a hat, giant balloons? Whatever you choose it’ll be a subtle hints to what you are all about and will help to bring a unique feel to the photographs.
Please get in touch if you are looking to update your website or social media, to book a family shoot or newborn session. Available in and around the London and Essex area, I come to my clients offices across Maldon, Chelmsford, Colchester, Brentwood, Shenfield, Braintree, London and others.
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