Let’s talk about how location and wardrobe choices can make or break your branding photo session.
If you’ve ever had to go out and procure photography for your business or even a personal, or family session, one question you might have asked is what do I (we) wear?
It’s likely one of the first things you think about. Should we all match, are patterns ok? Can I wear my favourite band shirt?
Hopefully if you’ve chosen a competent photographer, they might offer you a few suggestions on wardrobe or at least how to pick out cohesive outfits. For personal branding along with your outfits, you also need to be cognisant of where you will be shooting as this can very much tie into what you will choose to wear.
Some of my clients have a very specific look and feel in mind, others are less certain, but are usually attracted to my natural, clean editing style, which is why they reach out to me.
But what if you are working with a brand strategist and they give you specific parameters you need to fulfill?
This came across my plate recently, the colours for the brand and the feel were described as light and airy, whimsical and calming, professional among other things. There was a specific ‘look’ required.
Aside from the editing, there were a few things my client and I had to discuss, mainly location and wardrobe to get the look she was going for.
In order for her photos to have that light, airy, carefree vibe, choosing the right places, time of day to shoot and wardrobe were imperative.
Because of Covid, we were also not able to shoot indoors at public places, so we did all of the photography outside. Luckily, she was looking for an outdoor shoot regardless, but Covid threw one more wrench into the planning process.
To get this light and airy look, you want to make sure that your wardrobe is light in colour.
Wearing bright colours, wild patterns or a lot of dark colours, does not usually work for this look. When looking for places to shoot, again you want to avoid places with a lot of heavy greenery, red brick and dark colours.
My suggestion was to go downtown. There are lots of light coloured concrete and stone, that will work as a light backdrop. Also she was really set on having a beachy look too.
The beach is perfect for getting those lighter blue hues, and neutral sandy looks. There are many beaches in Ottawa and surrounding area that provide a great backdrop.
My client wanted to be sure that her website, social media and advertising all had a cohesive look. I made this mini Instagram grid to show you how some of her photos came together.
If you have a particular look in mind or are working with a strategist who knows what you need for your brand, make sure you are very clear with your photographer of your needs.
Can your photographer achieve this?
I am honest with all my clients in what I feel my abilities can and cannot achieve. My style is natural and clean, but often I can create a look outside of my norm. It’s always a good idea to talk about how that can be achieved and manage expectations appropriately.
When planning your brand shoot:
- Discuss the importance of wardrobe.
How you want your photos to feel?
- Are you serious, chic, laid back or fun and crazy? Maybe a combo of all? Let your photographer know so we can help you decide how to dress as such.
- What locations are important to you and how should they look?
- How do those locations mesh with your wardobe?
- Discuss how accessories such as a hat, scarf, sunglasses, jacket, shoes and jewellery can play a big part in getting your message across.
Consider shooting at home :
Can you get what you need at home for one of your location choices?
You might think your home doesn’t have the right look, but it can be just the perfect place. Send your photographer pictures of your space. They may have a vision you do not. Be open, especially in the covid crisis where it may be difficult to shoot in the places you imagined.
Hopefully this got you thinking of the places and outfits that can make or break your shoot. Need more ideas? Always feel free to get in touch.
Today’s blog featured Ashley from Saorsa Essentials – Soul aligned living
