Before your brand photoshoot, you may be wondering: “What kinds of photos do I need?” The truth is, there isn’t one right answer. It all depends on your brand, your story, and how you plan to use your images. That being said, I’ve compiled a few guidelines every small business owner can follow.
This blog post will walk you through the best types of images to plan on, and then I’ll share some examples of how I’ve brought these brand photoshoot ideas to life for real brands.
The most important photos to get with a branding photoshoot
When clients book a brand photography session with me, I create a plan that ensures their gallery is versatile and tailored to their needs. Generally, these are the three most important types of brand photos.
- The Expertise
These images show you in action – doing the actual work you do for your clients. Whether that’s teaching a yoga class, meeting with a client, or arranging flowers, these behind-the-scenes frames highlight your skill and industry authority.
- The Welcome
Here, we’re focused on the interaction. They might show you connecting with a client, presenting your product, or offering your service. The goal is to show your audience what it feels like to work with you and give them a sense of your process.
- The Personality
This is where we let your brand’s unique character shine. Personality photos capture your spark, your energy, and the things that make you, you. They’re often lighter, fun, and are designed to help your audience connect with the human behind the business.
Brand photoshoot ideas
Now that we’ve established the basic types of imagery you should plan for your branding, let’s dive into some real examples!
Brand photoshoot ideas for a yoga instructor
Since yoga is so often about community and connection, we wanted to highlight that for Jess Purtell Yoga. We began her branding photoshoot with a community-driven concept, bringing in students to show the sense of belonging her studio brings.
To capture her expertise, I photographed Jess in a variety of yoga poses and pilates exercises. These photos not only displayed her skill, but also demonstrated the range of classes she offers.
To show her warm, welcoming personality, we incorporated lighter, more thoughtful moments – like her seated with a gentle smile — to give her clients a glimpse into what it feels like to learn from her. We also incorporated plenty of negative space throughout her imagery to allow for text overlays to promote her Yoga Teacher Training Course.
Finally, we took a took a few ascetically pleasing shots of the studio itself along a some of her team members!
Inspiration for a holistic health coach
For Betty, a holistic health coach, the brand photoshoot needed to focus on the natural lifestyle she teaches her clients. Since much of her work centers on whole foods, we featured her in the kitchen preparing colorful, nourishing meals. To showcase her expertise, we captured her hands in action — preparing whole ingredients like fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables.
To welcome clients into her process, we included frames of her in her office, reviewing client plans and making notes. These images illustrate the professional structure behind her coaching.
Brand photography examples for a psychologist
Psychologists often walk a fine line between professionalism and approachability, so for Najwa, we wanted her brand photos to strike a perfect balance. We began with a professional, yet approachable air, sat in her signature Rose colored chair! Then I captured Najwa working, reading, and taking notes in a casual ensemble. These clearly communicated her credibility and authority.
Next, to capture the welcoming vibe, we photographed her office from a client’s perspective, showing the warm environment, comfortable seating, and open body language she uses with clients.
Lastly, for her personality images, we brought in softer moments: Najwa smiling warmly, and then lounging and laughing in a chair. These touches made her brand feel approachable and inviting without sacrificing professionalism. Also, notice how many of these images utilize plenty of negative space. Similar to the yoga teacher example above, these images are ideal for use on her website and social media.
Have some brand photoshoot ideas you’re excited to bring to life?
As a brand photographer in Alexandria, I specialize in creating intentional and versatile imagery that reflects the heart of your brand. If you’re ready to capture the multifaceted angles of your business, start the conversation!
