The Brand Photoshoot Prep Checklist

How to Prepare for a Successful Brand Photoshoot


A successful brand photoshoot is about more than just showing up - it’s about planning, preparing, and aligning your visuals with your business identity. This checklist will guide you through every step of the process, helping you feel confident and ensuring you get stunning visuals that reflect your brand.


1. Define Your Brand's Visual Identity


Before the shoot, it’s essential to get clear on your brand’s personality, values, and target audience. Knowing these will help you create images that resonate with your customers.


  • What’s your brand’s tone? (Bold, friendly, elegant, playful, professional, etc.)
  • Who is your target audience? (Age, gender, profession, interests)
  • What are your brand colours and fonts? Ensure consistency across all visuals.
  • What message do you want your photos to convey?


Pro Tip: Create a mood board with visual references (Pinterest works great!) that reflects your brand’s identity. This helps communicate your vision to your photographer.


2. Set Clear Goals for the Photoshoot


Be specific about what you want to achieve with the photos. Ask yourself:


  • Where will the images be used? (Website, social media, ads, brochures)
  • What types of images do you need? (Headshots, team photos, product shots, lifestyle images)
  • How many different looks or outfits do you want?
  • Any specific props, tools, or brand elements to include?


Action Step: Make a list of the key photos you need, such as:


  • Profile pictures
  • Team/group shots
  • Action shots (you working, behind the scenes)
  • Detail shots / filler shots
  • Negative space shots
  • Product or service highlights


3. Plan Your Outfits


Your clothing plays a big role in how your brand is perceived. Make sure your outfit reflects your brand’s visual identity and target audience.


  • Choose colours that complement your brand palette. (they don’t need to be the same colour, just don’t clash with them!)
  • Avoid busy patterns or logos that can be distracting.
  • Make sure they’re a good fit, and that you feel comfortable in what you’re wearing.
  • Layers can make your photos more dynamic and interesting. (jackets, cardigans, accessories)
  • Make sure your outfits reflect your brand’s personality (creative, casual, professional, approachable, etc)
  • Coordinate outfits if there’s more than one person involved (especially for team photos).
  • Bring extra outfits for variety, especially if you’re showcasing different aspects of your business.


Pro Tip: Test your outfit beforehand! Make sure you’re comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. If possible, take a few mirror selfies to see how it photographs.


4. Select Your Props


Props help tell your brand’s story and add context to your photos. Think about what objects or tools are relevant to your business.


  • Choose props that represent your work (e.g., laptops, tools, products, notebooks).
  • Bring branded items like mugs, pens, or notebooks with your logo for subtle branding.
  • Don’t overdo it—less is more! Pick 2-3 props that reinforce your message.


Action Step: Make a list of essential props you’ll bring, and check them off as you pack them for the shoot.


5. Choose the Right Location


Your location should align with your brand’s identity and the message you want to communicate.


  • Decide whether your office, home, a hired space or an outdoor location best reflects your brand.
  • Consider the vibe: A modern office for a tech company, a cozy café for a lifestyle brand, or a minimalist studio for clean, professional photos.
  • Think about lighting: Natural light is ideal, but if your location is indoors, make sure the lighting is sufficient.


Pro Tip: If you’re using your own space, tidy it up before the shoot and remove any distractions that don’t fit your brand image.


6. Hair and Makeup


Feeling polished and professional can boost your confidence during the shoot, so it’s worth spending time on hair and makeup.


  • Keep it natural: Stick to a look that’s true to yourself, but slightly more polished.
  • Hire a professional if it’s within your budget, or practice your look beforehand.
  • Check the weather if you’re shooting outside—wind and humidity can affect your hair and makeup, so plan accordingly.


Pro Tip: Bring touch-up products for quick fixes during the shoot.


7. Organise a Shot List


Your photographer will guide you, but having a shot list ensures you capture everything you need. This is especially important for a brand photoshoot where you’re working to get diverse, versatile images.


  • Make a list of must-have shots (e.g., headshots, team photos, workspace shots).
  • Categorise by type (e.g., individual, team, product).
  • Discuss the shot list with your photographer so they can prioritise your needs and maximise the time.


Action Step: Use the downloadable shot list template at the end of this checklist to plan out your day!


8. Be Authentic!


Authenticity is key when it comes to brand photography. Let your true personality shine through in your photos - your audience will connect more with images that feel real and relatable.


  • Smile naturally: Don’t force it. Think of moments that make you genuinely happy to relax in front of the camera. And don’t worry - your photographer will be there to help you bring your natural smile out!
  • Embrace your brand’s quirks: If you have a unique style or personality trait, showcase it! This is what makes your brand stand out.
  • Be yourself: It’s okay if you don’t look like a professional model (who does anyway?) - your audience wants to see you.


Pro Tip: If you’re nervous in front of the camera, spend a few minutes chatting with your photographer before the shoot to get comfortable.


9. Post-Shoot Follow-Up


After the shoot, communicate with your photographer about the final photos. Make sure you’re aligned on editing, delivery timelines, and how you’ll receive the images.


  • Review proofs: Choose your favourite images and provide any feedback.
  • Editing preferences: Let your photographer know if you have any preferences for retouching or editing styles.
  • Image usage: Consider where you’ll use these images, and whether you need specific formats or resolutions (e.g., high-res for print, low-res for web).


Download Your Printable Checklist!

Keep this checklist handy for your next brand photoshoot. Download the printable version to make sure you’re prepared and organised every step of the way.


By following this checklist, you’ll be fully prepared to make the most out of your brand photoshoot and get images that truly reflect your business.


If you’re ready to schedule your brand session, or if you have any questions about the process, I’m here to help!