Lake Design Co. branding photos by Venlo Studio

If you've been exploring ways to elevate your brand's visual presence, you've probably come across the term "branding photography." But what exactly is it, and how is it different from other types of photography?

More importantly, once you've decided to invest in a branding shoot, how do you prepare to make the most of it?

Let's break it all down.

What Is Branding Photography?

Brand photography is a collection of professional images that visually tell the story of your business. Unlike a simple headshot session or product photography, brand photography captures the full essence of who you are, what you do, and how you want to be perceived.

These images are designed to be used across all your marketing platforms, including:

Your website
Social media profiles and posts
Marketing materials and proposals
Email newsletters and campaigns
Presentations and media kits
Print materials like business cards and brochures

The goal? To create a cohesive visual library that authentically represents your brand and gives you content to use for months to come.

What Makes Brand Photography Different?

Here's how branding photography stands apart from other types of photo sessions:

Headshots

Headshots are typically just that—photos of your head and shoulders against a simple background. They're great for LinkedIn profiles and bios, but they don't tell a broader story about your business.

Product Photography

Product photography focuses solely on showcasing your products in a polished, professional way. It's essential for e-commerce but doesn't capture the human side of your brand.

Branding Photography

Branding photography is comprehensive. It includes headshots, lifestyle images, detail shots, workspace photos, products in use, behind-the-scenes moments, and anything else that helps tell your brand story. It's the full picture.

How to Prepare For Your Branding Photography Shoot

Preparation is key to getting the most value from your branding session. Here's how to set yourself up for success:

1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Before the shoot, get clear on:

Where will you use these images? Website refresh? Social media content? Marketing materials?
What feeling do you want to convey? Professional and polished? Warm and approachable? Bold and creative?
What story are you telling? What aspects of your business do you want to highlight?

Share your vision with your photographer ahead of time. The more they understand your goals, the better they can capture what you need.

2. Create a Shot List

Work with your photographer to develop a shot list that includes:

Headshots (smiling, serious, multiple angles)
Workspace or office environment shots
Detail shots (hands typing, coffee on desk, products, tools of your trade)
Lifestyle images (you working with clients, creating, in your element)
Products or services in action
Team photos if applicable
Any specific content needs for upcoming campaigns

Luckily this is something we do in our process for you. We develop a shot list based on our clients needs and how they fill out their questionnaire.

3. Choose Your Location

Location can make or break a brand photo session. Lighting, the style, and furniture available for posing are all very important to consider. Think about where you want to shoot:

Your workspace or office: Shows where the magic really happens
Rental Location: If you’re workspace isn’t the best visually or doesn’t have great natural light, finding an on-brand studio rental can be a great alternative
Outdoor locations: Natural light and environmental variety
Client spaces: If relevant to your work

Reach out to your photographer if you need help deciding on a location or weighing pros/cons. We’ve photographed at a lot of different locations and can help source the perfect spot.

4. Plan Your Wardrobe

Your clothing choices matter. Bring multiple outfits that:

Align with your brand colors and aesthetic
Reflect how you want to be seen professionally
Are comfortable and make you feel confident
Avoid busy patterns or distracting logos (unless intentional)
Provide variety in style and formality

Pro tip: Bring 2-3 times more outfit options than you think you'll need. It's easier to have choices on hand than to wish you'd brought something else.

5. Gather Props and Brand Elements

Maddie the Writer branding photos by Venlo Studio

Bring items that tell your brand story:

Your products or tools of your trade
Branded materials (packaging, business cards, signage)
Laptop, notebooks, or other work essentials
Coffee mug, plants, or styling elements
Anything that represents your personality or brand aesthetic

These details add depth, pops of color and authenticity to your images.

6. Prepare Your Space and Yourself

For your space:

Declutter and clean thoroughly
Style surfaces intentionally
Make sure lighting is good or discuss lighting needs with your photographer

For yourself:

Get plenty of rest the night before
Stay hydrated
Schedule hair and makeup if desired
Avoid trying a drastic new haircut or color right before the shoot
Practice natural smiles and expressions in the mirror

7. Communicate With Your Photographer

Before shoot day:

Share your brand guidelines, color palette, and visual inspiration
Discuss your shot list and timing
Clarify deliverables (how many edited images, turnaround time, file formats)
Ask about their process and what to expect on shoot day
Voice any concerns or specific needs

A collaborative relationship with your photographer ensures better results.

8. Relax and Trust the Process

It's normal to feel a bit awkward in front of the camera at first. A skilled branding photographer will guide you through poses, help you relax, and capture authentic moments. Trust their expertise and remember: the goal is to capture the real you, not a stiff, perfect version.

After the Shoot: Making the Most of Your Images

Ezer Bookkeeping brand photos by Venlo Studio. Web design by Lake Design Co.

Once you receive your final images:

Organize them by type and use case
Create a content calendar to use them strategically
Update your website and social profiles
Share behind-the-scenes stories about the shoot
Refresh your marketing materials

A well-executed branding shoot can provide content for 6-12 months or more, making it a valuable investment in your business's visual presence.

Ready to Tell Your Brand Story?

Brand photography is more than just pretty pictures—it's a strategic tool that helps you connect with your audience, build trust, and stand out in a crowded market. With the right preparation and a skilled photographer, you can create a visual library that works as hard as you do.

Venlo Studio offers both 1-hour and 2-hour brand photo sessions designed to capture your business in a thoughtful, elevated way. For a quicker option, brand photo mini sessions are also available a few times a year—perfect for refreshed content without the full session commitment.

Ready to book your branding photography session? Let's create images that capture the real you and elevate your brand.

What Is Branding Photography? And How to Prepare For Your Shoot