When you invest in brand photography, you want to love how you look in your gallery.  

And as a professional brand photographer, I want every one of my small business and corporate clients to feel fantastic when they see the images I deliver.  

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to looking great in your images. Instead, the main goal should be to look like you at your most polished and confident. But since I get asked so often for advice about styling and preparing for branding sessions, this post is my answer. 

I’ll preface the whole thing by saying that I don’t want you to feel like you have to do any of this. However, if you are anxious about how to prepare to look like the best version of yourself for your brand photography shoot, here’s my advice. 

Even if it’s not your thing, get your hair and makeup done. 

I’m as low-key as they come, but having a professional tackle your hair and makeup is totally worth it when it’s time to step in front of the lens. More than the hair and makeup itself, the extra bit of polish naturally ups your confidence, which will show in your images. 

Of course, there is also something to be said for that extra attention to detail that a professional stylist will be able to give to your hair and face. Remember, your brand photography is an investment; you will use these images everywhere. Putting your best face forward is key. 

I don’t really wear makeup, so if you don’t either, it’s perfectly fine to keep things really simple. Just accentuating your eyes and cheekbones and freshening up your face can work wonders. Now is NOT the time to go bold, try a new hairstyle, or attempt a smokey-cat-eye. Keep your hair simple. Down is usually most flattering if you have long hair. Tell your makeup artist you will be having professional headshots done, so they know to keep things natural, fresh, and clean. 

Don’t forget your nails. 

Whether typing at a keyboard, shaping a clay pot, working in the garden, or holding brand-relevant props and items—hands are everywhere in a brand photography session. 

Often, clients forget about their nails and then realize when we get to the shoot that their hands aren’t camera-ready. 

If you are a person who likes manicures, go ahead and get a simple manicure and neutral or intentionally bold color polish, depending on your brand’s vibe. If not, there is no need to worry; just make sure your nails are trimmed and filed to be neat, short, and even. I also suggest moisturizing your hands for at least a week or so before the shoot. 

Choose versatile, authentic outfits—and choose them early. 

There is no “right” outfit—remember, you want to look like the best version of you. For a flower farmer, that might mean adorable and clean overalls. For a yoga instructor, it could be well-fitted, high-quality yoga clothes. For an investment banker, it might be a traditional suit.

My biggest advice when planning your branding photo session clothing is: don’t leave it until the last minute!

Leave plenty of time to try out different options, get feedback, and alter as necessary. 

Here are some important considerations when choosing clothes:

• Fit: Any wardrobe issue will be magnified by the camera, so it’s essential to choose flattering pieces—not too tight, not too loose, and not too low-cut. 
• Movement: You want to feel comfortable sitting, walking, and doing your job in whatever outfits you select. 
• Color: Consider your brand colors and the colors that look best on you. Where these meet, or a complimentary color are usually good choices. Neutrals are also an easy win. You also want to think about how the colors will look against your session backdrop. For instance, if your office walls are blue and you wear blue, you’ll risk blending into the surroundings.
• Variety: I suggest planning for two major outfit changes and then bringing accessories and layers to add lots of variety and maximize your looks. This strategy will also give you plenty of options to choose from when you get your photos back so you can choose what you like best. Great opportunities to change things up include blazars, jackets, shawls, scarves, footwear, or handbags. Check out this post from Postcards from Hawaii to see how one white dress can transform with different accessories.

Ask for input from your photographer, partner, or trusted friends, and, above all, make sure you feel comfortable and beautiful in everything you select. 

Plan your accessories and footwear. 

The work of choosing clothing items can leave you feeling exhausted, but don’t forget the icing on the cake—accessories!

If you are someone who wears jewelry, choose pieces that complement your outfits without drawing too much focus. I suggest removing your FitBit, AppleWatch, or Medical ID bracelet. If you have a watch strap tan, be sure to swap that functional jewelry out with a bracelet or a nicer-looking watch. 

Finally, don’t forget about your feet. The wrong footwear can ruin the polished look you’ve put together. Make sure the shoes you pick are suitable for the type of job you do. If your shoot is outdoors, please, please, please don’t wear stilettos. And no matter your job, choose footwear in great shape—no stains, scuffs, or falling apart soles allowed.

With outfits planned, hair and makeup booked, camera-ready hands, and accessories sorted, you’ll be ready to look and feel amazing during your shoot. Be sure to drink lots of water, get enough sleep for at least a few days before the session, and arrive ready to have fun. Your mood will show through in your photos, and we want to capture your passion for life and work. 

Want to see examples of my corporate clients looking their own brands of amazing?

Get inspired by these galleries.