What to wear for a brand or business photoshoot
Styling options for a brand photoshoot
Today we’re answering one of my most asked questions before a brand photoshoot - “But what do I wear?!”
And I get it - If you are new to having your photo taken professionally, planning a shoot can feel overwhelming, especially if you are nervous infront of the camera.
I will always do a planning call with my clients before every shoot, and this is something we’ll discuss in detail. But, if you have yet to work with me, here are my top tips for deciding on outfits ahead of your brand photoshoot. Before we begin, I have one hard rule which I share with ALL my photography clients:
Dress as if you were meeting a client for the first time. ..
If you’re investing in photography, every single detail in your shoot matters. in The way you come across in your brand photography will affect your potential client’s decision to book or hire you. Therefore, photography usually involves showing up as the best version of yourself. It is often the first touchpoint someone will see when they first come across you, and so you might feel the pressure to dress up and show up in a way that you would never do otherwise. However, instead focus on what would feel genuinely comfortable and empowering to you - and in turn, that will appeal to your dream clients. It could be your favourite lipstick, a sparkly dress or your comfy trainers. It’s all about being authentic.
Your brand photography colour palette
There are two things to consider when deciding on your outfits' colour palettes - both of which are super important.
Your brand colours. As a first step, they could feature in your clothes - but also have a think about the other elements of your outfit - what about the lipsticks you bring, or the nail colour you choose? Depending on what finishing touches feel most authentic to you, there are loads of ways you can incorporate your brand colours into your shoot.
Your neutrals. Whilst your brand colours are super important, if you are looking for versatility, going for neutrals like whites, blacks, greys, and browns will serve you well and will always be timeless. Neutral colours will pair perfectly with any colours you may decide to use on your website or social media, and look really lovely and natural in your images.
Your photoshoot location
The setting of your brand photoshoot will have a big impact on what you decide to wear. If you are at home, you might feel more comfortable in casual clothes. If you are out in the countryside, a cosy jumper or sensible shoes might be the better option. It’s important that your clothes feel consistent with your location, otherwise it will feel confusing to your audience.
Another tip is to think about wardrobe staples that you wear year-round. Or another way to look at this one is to dress for the cross-over seasons like spring and fall. That way you won’t end up with images that you can only use for a short season out of the year. For example, rather than a floral sundress with sandals, pick the more neutral-colored dress and throw on a pair of trainers.
Make yourself comfortable
Listen, the most important part of your shoot is that you are comfortable. You should feel like you! So make sure you wear something that doesn’t need adjusting once it’s on. I’m talking straps that keep falling down, or trousers that constantly need pulling up. There’s nothing wrong with those things if you’re comfortable - but if not? Choose something else.
Many brand photographers advise that you avoid loud patterns and bold colors. Big bold patterns stick out but if that’s your vibe - I say go for it! Same goes for loud colors, particularly if it’s one of your brand colors. For example, if your brand has a vibrant yellow logo then it would be a great idea to wear vibrant yellow for your shoot. Speaking of brand colors. If you’ve got a brand colour that looks good on your skin tone, definitely use it!
It would be easy for me to tell you not to go out and buy something new, but we all know the pressure to feel perfect infront of the camera and honestly, i’d probably do it too. Therefore, if you are treating yourself, make sure you don’t buy something that is too out of your comfort zone - I promise, you are great just as you are. The clothing you wear is just a small part of a successful shoot, so don’t spend more than you can afford.
Bring outfit options!
Some photographers are super picky with the number of outfits you can wear during your shoot. I say - the more the better! Depending on the duration of your shoot, bringing different outfit options gives you versatility, which in turn makes it easier to show up online. You don’t want your photos to look like they were all taken in one day, in one outfit. Bring options and accessories and switch these out throughout your shoot. I suggest at least two of the following:
Professional: A professional outfit is different for everyone, but on the whole a smarter or more dressy option is great for photos related to your work. Professional doesnt have to be boring - I don’t necessarily mean you have to wear a suit or dress. However you look when you show up to work with clients is your professional or business outfit. I would recommend using these photos in your presentation decks or pitch documents. They are the images the show you mean business.
Casual: This is the outfit you get to have fun in! This is something more casual and experimental - think bold accessories or a colourful dress. This outfit is great for sharing more care-free, personal anecdotes on social media and will make you seem more approachable.
Lounge: This one is cute and comfy, and probably more neutral. I generally recommend using these pictures on your stories as part of your more authentic, behind the scenes content.
In fact, I have a whole blog post if you’re looking for inspiration about where to use your brand photography.
Feeling confident infront of the camera
More than anything, just be yourself! Getting in front of the camera can be scarey enough without having to do it in clothes that don’t make you feel good. If you’re uncomfortable, it will come across in your photos. The aim of your brand shoot is to empower you with images that make you feel excited - so you can show up better and be more visible as the face of your small business.
If you’re considering a brand shoot - get in touch today and i’d love to help!