5 Shy-friendly steps to make Brand Photoshoot stress-free.

A brand photoshoot can be extremely intimidating for a camera-shy person! 📸

I know because I am one, and it took me 5 months to build up the mindset to do this one, really!

To ease into getting a professional brand photoshoot, I decided to do a mock photoshoot first. 💁‍♀️

Here are 5 shy-friendly steps I took to make my mock brand photoshoot stress-free while being Responscious and staying authentic to myself and my brand:

1. Saved every picture I loved into a folder I could easily access.

2. KonMaried the folder through my brand style lens and let go of everything that didn’t fit.

3. Using these references, I started taking crazy amounts of pictures of myself everywhere I went. I didn’t feel shy because nobody would see these). I invested in a good tripod with lights and a remote button to make this journey smooth. After 1 week, I sat down, went through all the pictures, and looked for COMFORT patterns:

a. the clothes I felt most comfortable in - style, color, fabric, etc.
b. the places/locations I felt most comfortable in - home, cafe, park, etc.
c. the time I feel most comfortable in - time of the day, day of the week, etc.
d. the mood I was in during the shoot - happy, worried, excited, too excited, just showing up, etc.
e. a good combination of all of the above what showcases me in my element.

4. Filtered these photos again through my brand guidelines.

5. Based on the final pieces left, I did a mock photoshoot to get (somewhat) used to being in the frame; and Viola! Here it is!



I’m overjoyed with the output and am having a good time editing my mock photoshoot. 🤩

Next on my list - Start looking for photographers in my geographical area and reach out to ones I feel aesthetically and values-wise aligned with. Request to meet up for a quick chat in person & discuss my shoot. Then play it by ear... Will update you on how that goes..

Are you someone waiting to do a brand photoshoot but dreading the thought of getting it done professionally? Feel free to try this mock shoot method, and let me know what you think :)

FAQ’s

• How do you find a photographer who aligns with your brand's aesthetic and values, and what criteria should you use to evaluate potential photographers?

  Finding a photographer who aligns with your brand's aesthetic and values starts with thorough research. Begin by exploring photographers' portfolios online to get a sense of their style and approach. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, can be invaluable for this. Pay attention to how they capture subjects, the emotions evoked through their work, and any recurring themes that resonate with your brand identity. Reading reviews and testimonials from past clients can also provide insight into their professionalism and how they interact with clients. When evaluating potential photographers, consider not only their photographic style but also their understanding and enthusiasm for your brand's mission. Communication is key, so reaching out for a preliminary chat can help gauge their compatibility with your vision.

• What specific brand guidelines did you filter the photos through after your mock photoshoot, and how did you apply them to ensure brand consistency?

  When filtering photos through brand guidelines, the focus was on ensuring that the images not only captured the essence of the brand but also communicated its values and message effectively. Brand guidelines often include elements like color schemes, tone of voice, and visual motifs that should be consistent across all brand materials. In applying these guidelines to the selection process, each photo was assessed to ensure it matched the brand's color palette, reflected the desired mood, and fit within the overall narrative the brand aims to tell. This consistency helps in creating a cohesive brand image that is easily recognizable and resonates with the target audience.

• Could you share any tips or strategies for overcoming moments of shyness or discomfort during the actual photoshoot?

  Overcoming moments of shyness or discomfort during the actual photoshoot can be challenging but is manageable with the right mindset and preparation. One effective strategy is to establish a good rapport with your photographer before the shoot. Discussing your concerns and what you're comfortable with can help them create a more supportive and understanding environment. Practicing poses and expressions in front of a mirror can also boost your confidence. Remember, the goal of the photoshoot is to capture the authentic you, so try to focus on the aspects of your brand and personality you want to showcase. Finally, taking deep breaths, focusing on positive thoughts, and having a friend or someone you trust at the shoot can provide additional support and make the experience more enjoyable.