5 Things Professionals Forget to Do Before a Branding Photoshoot (and Why They Matter)!
So, you’ve booked your branding photoshoot. You’ve sorted the outfits, chosen a location, maybe even rehearsed a few poses in the mirror. Brilliant!
But there are a few simple, yet critical, steps professionals often forget before stepping in front of the camera.
The truth is, the little details can be the difference between “That’ll do” and “Wow, that’s exactly how I want to be seen.”
Here are the five things to keep in mind before your next shoot:
1. Prioritise Sleep and HydrationNo amount of retouching can replicate the glow of a well-rested face.
No amount of retouching can replicate the glow of a well-rested face!
Dark circles, dull skin, and low energy? They all show up in the final images.
A few early nights and plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot will do wonders for your appearance and your mood.
2. Bring More Than One Outfit
Even if you’re convinced your go-to blazer is “the one,” always pack at least 2–3 outfit options.
Different colours and textures photograph differently under lighting, and sometimes a backup look ends up being the winning shot.
Think versatile, think layers, and think ahead.
3. Pack a Back-up Accessory or Prop
Whether it’s a different pair of glasses, a statement watch, or even a notebook you use daily, props and accessories can subtly shift the tone of your images.
They also add variety, which is key when you’re building content for LinkedIn, your website, or press features.
4. Schedule Grooming (Not Last-Minute!)
Haircuts the day before? Risky.
Last-minute beard trim? Could backfire.
Ideally, aim for a haircut, beard trim, or colour touch-up about a week before the shoot.
For women, professional makeup (or at least a fresh polish of your own) ensures your features are enhanced but not overdone.
5. Bring the Right Mindset
This one is underrated.
The most photogenic thing you can bring to a shoot isn’t a perfect suit or flawless hair: it’s confidence!
Remind yourself that the camera captures your energy, not just your face.
A relaxed, confident presence is infinitely more magnetic than striving for perfection.
Final Thought
Your branding photos are an investment, not just in your image, but in the way others perceive and connect with you.
Preparation is the not-so-secret ingredient that transforms “just another headshot” into a powerful representation of your brand.
So yes, choose your outfits.
But also sleep well, hydrate, bring variety, groom with care, and step in front of the camera with confidence.
That’s where the magic happens
If you are ready to have a chat about I can help you and your brand to stand out, in all the right ways and for the right reasons, send me your enquiry and let’s book an informal chat!
