How to Pick the Perfect Outfit for Your Branding Photo Shoot
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Personal branding photoshoots can be a powerful tool for female entrepreneurs to showcase their unique style and personality. Remember, your brand is all about showcasing your unique qualities and building a connection with your audience.
So, you have taken the plunge and booked your branding shoot. HOORAY! Then suddenly…the panic hits and you have no idea what to wear, or what to expect!
Taking time to plan and prepare is the secret to a wildly successful branding photoshoot.
Here is our curated list of tips to help pick outfits for your next branding photo or video shoot:
1. REFLECT THE BRAND
Choose outfits that align with your brand and your target audience. The clothing should represent the business values and the overall brand image you want to portray.
2. DRESS PROFESSIONALLY
Opt for professional attire that reflects your industry. This could be a suit, a tailored dress, or a blouse with a blazer. This could also be a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. It's important to look polished and put-together, but its even more important to “dress the part” and connect with your audience.
3. CHOOSE FLATTERING COLORS
Try to choose colors that complement your skin tone and hair color, but most importantly, colors that make you feel confident and vibrant. Solid colors are typically best, but if it feels too boring, don't be afraid to play with patterns and textures via props and accessories.
4. MIND THE LANDSCAPE/BACKGROUND
If you have a specific location in mind for the shoot, keep the area in mind. We want to choose outfits that will stand out against the background(s). For example, if the shoot will take place in a park with lots of greenery, they may want to avoid wearing green.
5. SHINE BRIGHT WITH PERSONALITY
Do not be afraid to incorporate elements of your personality into their outfits. This could be through accessories as simple as a scarf or your favorite piece of statement jewelry. I can not stress the importance of feeling authentic and true to who you are. Need an example? Here's me in my absolute element 
6. DON'T SACRIFICE COMFORT
Comfort is key! I'm not saying Spanx aren't allowed, I'm just suggesting you keep it simple. Less hassle is always better, especially when you're racing the clock. You should be able to move freely and naturally during the shoot. Choose outfits that you feel comfortable and confident in. If you are super self conscious and uncomfortable, it will show in the photos. So let's not invite that stress to the party…kay?
7. “WHEN IN DOUBT, HAUL IT OUT”
Actual words spoken by Ashley Rufino in the final moments of me last minute planning what to bring to my own holiday branding shoot with her. Yes I sent her this photo of my cluster fuck of outfit options less than 6 hours before the shoot…
When Ashley texted me this, first I laughed. But then I was like UM YES. I always tell my clients “if you don't feel like you're moving it, you're not bringing enough”. I promise this isn't meant to stress you out either. Its a mere tactic to get as many details in the door that portray who you are and what you're about. Can a painter paint without paint? Think of your outfits and prop as parts of the puzzle – and we're really good at puzzles.
So definitely bring a few different outfit options and let us help you build the looks. Little extras that are easy to add and remove allow for variety in the final images and give more flexibility to choose the best looks.
Brand Photography, Strategy & Design (@thiswaytofabulous)Looking for some photoshoot outfit inspiration? Here's an overview of our suggestions!
8. ASK FOR HELP!
We all have that one (or five) super stylish friends that we ooh and ahh over their wardrobe choices. Don't be afraid to ask them for advice for your body type! Just be sure to keep your brand and target audience in mind as well. Our “Oh So Fabulous VIP Content Experience” actually includes Virtual Wardrobe Styling with our trusted partners over at Styling by Jenni. You can even upgrade to have her come on set with us for an extra pair of eyes on all the little details of your outfits!
Curious what “Virtual Wardrobe Styling” entails? Here's an example of 4 outfit style board that we totally approve of (hot pink, duhhhh). You can read more details about the process here but if you're feeling stuck, we highly suggest reaching out to her!
As an entrepreneur, every single detail in your photos and visual presence online matter. The vibe you reflect in the brand photos on your website and social media platforms will absolutely affect your potential client’s decision to say hi or girl byeeeee.
Interested in seeing what other clients wear for their shoots? Check out our featured sessions for inspiration!
