Overcoming Camera Shyness: Why You Need to Be in Your Brand Photos | Boston Brand Photographer

Maybe you hate the way you look in photos. This is a common theme I hear from business owners, especially female business owners… which is an issue when you are the face of your business. People want to see you! They want to get to know YOU (spoiler, they don’t care if you have a double chin or wrinkles when you smile), but I get it. We all want to look our best in front of the camera.

1. Let’s make you actually look like yourself. Stop judging your appearance based on camera snapshots with terrible lighting and unflattering angles. We’ll set up the good light, with the good angles, and make you look like you

2. Wipe the fake smile off your face. It’s not your fault, but for some of us, a “smile for the camera” is nothing like our actual genuinely happy-to-see-you smile. We’ll help you get the real smiles and leave the “cheese” at the door.

3. Take a deep breath, channel your inner T Swift, and just get over it :) I know it’s easier said than done, but being overly critical of yourself in front of the camera is often a mental block we just need to knock down.

Have you seen our Ebook: 8 Tips to Look Your Best in Every Photo? This is the best resource I send my clients when we book a brand photoshoot.

Camera shyness plagues our everyday life now as it feels like everyones taking pictures all the time, but this is your moment to shine and let the professional photog take care of all the things that make you nervous. A personal brand session is all about letting your audience get a peek behind the business, and give them a reason to get invested in the person, not just the product.

Utilizing the Location You Have for An Amazing Photoshoot | Boston Brand Photographer

I want to get real about a game-changing aspect of brand photography – the art of making your chosen location fit you and your photo shoot. I’ve spent years photographing personal brand projects not just in Boston but throughout New England, and I know it can be hard to decide on a location that does everything you want it to and more. So, where do you start?

Location is extremely important as we plan our branding shoot, but I’m here to tell you it doesn’t need to be as fancy or overtop as you may believe. Whether you're vibing in your cozy living room or soaking in the cityscape outside, it is possible to make one space the center of your visual storytelling. Trust me, it's all about getting creative in order to create a photoshoot that's as versatile as your brand lifestyle.

My first suggestion to people is always to consider where you’re comfortable working, whether that be your workspace, your office, or even your home. Not every space will be a winner, but often my clients completely overlook the potential of a versatile spot just because they are there every day. Making that space come to life is exactly what’s going to make your brand photos stand out. Don’t feel discouraged because you’re shooting in the spots of your everyday life, get excited! Being familiar in a space not only reflects on you in the photos but also reflects where the guiding force behind your brand comes from.

Bringing the versatility out of the spot we choose is all about maximizing the space. This is done by switching up the looks, poses, and angles, Simple changes in perspective can turn a familiar spot into a whole new visual experience. Remember, it's not just about the location; it's about how you frame your story within it.

If you still don’t believe in the dynamics of your spot, I’ve covered tips on making your workspace look and feel more photogenic, prepping your space with a few small details can make all the difference in the look and feel. My goal is to debunk the myth that you need a glamorous setting for a killer photoshoot. Your living room, your favorite cafe, or that cozy corner in your workspace – they're all potential gems for your photographer. Embrace the simplicity and let your brand personality take center stage.

3 Mistakes to Watch Out For on Your Brand Photoshoot | Boston Brand Photographer

Hey there, small business owners and entrepreneurs in Boston! If you're gearing up for an awesome brand photoshoot, we've got some essential advice to share with you. Today, we're going to uncover the top three mistakes you need to avoid to ensure your brand photoshoot is a resounding success. So, grab your notebook and let's dive into this blog post that's all about what to avoid to create stunning brand visuals.

1. “Winging It”: The Importance of Preparation

Picture this: You show up for your brand photoshoot, all excited and ready to strike a pose. But hold on, have you actually prepared for it? "Winging it" might sound thrilling, but when it comes to creating a strong visual identity for your brand, preparation is absolutely crucial. In the initial steps of the planning process we’ll get into the importance of communication, prop selection, and outfit coordination to match the vibe and location. Trust us, skipping the preparation phase is a big no-no that can lead to lackluster results. So, let's ensure your photoshoot is set up for success right from the start.

2. Location, Location, Location: Don’t Settle for a Location that Doesn’t Fit Your Brand

So, before you brush off your own workspace as not being "luxury" or "on-brand" enough, think again! (Check out the blog for prepping your workspace!) Embrace its unique qualities and consider how they align with your brand's story. Authenticity goes a long way in building trust and connecting with your audience, and using your own workspace can amplify that in your brand photos.

If your workspace doesn't fit right for what you’re going for, tap into the resources around you! Do you have a friend with a kitchen that perfectly complements your lifestyle brand? Or perhaps you can strike a sweet trade deal with a past client who has an "on-brand" blue living room? And hey, have you ever considered checking out some Airbnb options? Renting a location may come with an extra expense, but trust us, it's always worth it. We've never had a client say they regretted investing in the perfect space that truly embodied their brand.

For more tips on choosing the perfect location, head over to our blog post on "How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Brand Photoshoot". It's a game-changer!

3. Don't Let Those Photos Collect Digital Dust

Now that you've embraced the idea of using your own location for your brand photoshoot, let's talk about the importance of actually using those photos. We understand that the overwhelming feeling of "How do I use them?" can sometimes creep in. But remember, the key is to take action and be strategic. “Done is better than perfect.”

Here's the truth: using your photos strategically is crucial for showcasing your brand and engaging your audience. We'll share valuable insights and practical tips on how to leverage your photos across your social media platforms, website, and other marketing channels. Let's ensure your brand photos shine brightly and contribute to your business's success. Check out “Tips for How to Make Your Brand Stand Out Online”

Start by creating a content calendar and planning out how you'll incorporate your photos into your social media posts, website, and other marketing materials. Highlight different aspects of your workspace and how they tie into your brand's story. By using your own space, you're not only showcasing your products or services but also inviting your audience into your world.

Now that you're aware of the top three mistakes to avoid on your brand photoshoot, you're equipped to make the most of this incredible opportunity. Remember the significance of preparation, the importance of choosing the right location, and the necessity of maximizing your photos' potential. By sidestepping these mistakes, you'll be well on your way to capturing stunning visuals that truly represent your brand. So, get ready to showcase your brand's essence through captivating imagery and watch your business thrive.

How Working with an experienced Brand Strategist Can Elevate Your Photo Session (Part 2) | Boston Photographer

If you started on Part 1 of this post, let me pick up where I left off… Enter my dream client, interior design entrepreneur extraordinaire, Ms Rachel Reider of Reider and Co. She is doing a complete rebrand with Kris, and they need next level content to show off what this team is all about. Oh, have I mentioned her amazing, powerhouse (all female) team of 6?

Example of a client shot list

Again, I can’t stress enough how beneficial it was to have Kris on the brand strategy/art direction side of this. After diving deep into the Reider and Co brand and the direction they were going, Kris and I came up with a shot list together. Here is an example of a shot list I would create for every brand photoshoot. It includes inspiration photos, locations, and specific shots we know are a priority.

For this particular shoot, we wanted a heavy focus on the team dynamic. Day 1 included two versatile locations - one in a Back Bay, Boston condo, and the other in a suburban Wellesley home. Our main focus was really powerful team photos, headshots, as well as a peek into all of the many things that happen behind the scenes as they are working with their clients. This was one of my favorites, shot “tableau style” to highlight the all inclusive experience the team provides from start to finish.

Day 2 was on location at Rachel’s studio in the South End of Boston (two blocks away from my condo, perfect!) Our main focus was to show the day-to-day, behind-the-scenes team in action: the start of the process, the sample selection, the team meetings. All of the things we don’t think about when we see the finished product.

All in all, it was a successful brand shoot, and I am THRILLED to see these images on Rachel’s gorgeous new website. Kris did an amazing job. This is what happens when women are in charge.

Check out the Reider and Co brand new website here

Check out the very talented Kris Kennedy of Loudhouse Branding website here

Of course what would a great photoshoot be without gorgeous hair and makeup, by Paula Roderick-Voisembert

Working with a Great Brand Strategist and Why You Need One (Part 1) | Boston Brand Photographer

If you come to me and you’re already working with a brand strategist, I immediately love you as a client. Why? You’ve already taken a major step to uplevel your business. You are most likely an entrepreneur with defined goals and a clear brand story. Planning your photo shoot is already less stressful for you.

If you ARE the brand strategist, now I am doing a happy dance. When Kris contacted me because she wanted to book a photoshoot for one of her clients, the first thing we did was to schedule a call to make sure we “vibed”. I don’t know about anyone else, but entering into a relationship with someone you are not compatible with, is DANGEROUS ground. Luckily, within 5 mins we were giggling and chatting about patriarchy and lifting up women business owners in the home design industry (perfect, I love her already).

Two weeks later she came to me with her first client she wanted to book a photoshoot for… which happened to be my dream interior design client, boutique hotel design goddess, the legend herself, Ms. Rachel Reider or Reider and Co. IYKYK.

(Rachel’s team shoot blog coming on part 2 tomorrow!).

Kris had been working (heavily) with Rachel on her rebrand already, so it was easy for Kris to take the reins on direction and planning for the shoot. This was a HUGE benefit to Rachel and her team - it totally took the weight off of her shoulders, goodbye stress and overwhelm!

Kris and I chose three incredible locations (always helpful when your client has designed two luxury homes that we can use as a backdrop, and has a chic design studio in Boston’s South End), and came up with a shot list that included specific needs for Rachel’s website and social media.

On the first day of the (two day) shoot, Kris took the role as art director, and we worked as a team to produce and execute the shot list. It was a long two days for everyone, but having Kris as the art director, truly made this shoot as successful as it was.

Check out her (also newly-rebranded-coming-soon) site where you can see more details about how awesome she is.
In the meantime, her new Instagram is getting very interesting! @loudhousebranding

And you are going to be absolutely BLOWN AWAY by the new Reider and Co site. You want to know how to effectively use your brand photos? This is it… We’ll be posting Reider and Co’s final images and link to their brand new website next week! I know it’s so hard to wait!

You can find Kris on her newly rebranded Instagram @loudhousebranding and her website coming soon: Loudhouse Branding

Inside an Interior Designer Personal Brand Shoot: Sarah Cole Spotlight | Boston Photographer

On an interior shoot, so much prep goes into making a room photo ready. On a brand shoot with an interior designer… in a home that she designed, take that prep work and make it a double, hah! When working with interior designers, I usually recommend that we keep the photoshoot for the home they designed and their brand photoshoot separate, but limitations in using someone else’s home doesn’t always allow that kind of freedom. Sarah had two days to prep, style AND shoot the home and her brand photos… I’m sweating and stressed just saying that. Prep work and communication, while time consuming, truly makes or breaks the outcome of a shoot like this.

Sarah Cole has made the art of prepping a space for a shoot down to a T. Being a visual person herself, she had the perfect vision for her “red dress” room, and using the built-ins as a main backdrop. And hello yellow shoes to perfectly compliment the yellow/blue sitting room? Showing part of her process and not JUST the pretty, finished product, was important, so we made sure to take elements from the planning stages - the measuring to get the perfect custom fit, the dozens of meetings and conversations with clients, reviewing the floor plans, down to the final touches.

How to make your brand shoot more personal with Kylie Wright | Boston Photographer

One of the many parts I love about personal brand shoots is the opportunity it creates for you, the client, to reflect on your brand and how you want to be seen. Kylie, CEO of a tech company, has had many “corporate” headshot sessions to show the serious professional side of her job, this time opted to go for a more personal approach with her session.

I loved this approach, as it allowed us to highlight Kylie’s life outside her Back Bay office, creating a very genuine “total package” image of her. She lives near her work, and if you haven’t been to Back Bay, it has so many photo opportunities with the brownstone buildings, Newbury street, restaurants, and green spaces. Pretty much quintessential old town Boston. In capturing her less corporate side, we focused on what she appreciates outside of the office such as her favorite walks in the neighborhood, or her favorite restaurants in the area (which I don’t know how you can pick), rides her Blue Bike to the office, and one of my favorite moments, spending some time engaging with her family and pups. 

For a more casual professional vibe, we concentrated on what she would post to a blog or LinkedIn about, such as how she can take work calls walking down Commonwealth Ave. As a leader, she loves working with her team and considers that one of her happy places.

How Gwen made the most of her brand shoot | Boston Brand Photographer

Gwen, Homeopath, came to me when planning her website with her website designer Lulu, and her photos from this brand shoot fit her website. During our consultation, she described how she wanted an organic and neutral look to her images. We decided to do the shoot at my studio in Lawrence, starting with a complete blank slate background and adding in details and items reflective of her brand such as earth toned art and plants. A minimalist approach with beautifully simple results. One of our goals was to recreate the warmth and openness of her office environment and the general vibe of zoom calls with patients, and we were able to do just that using a few key items and colors.

And while we had the whole brand session in our studio space, we were not limited! Gwen worked with a virtual wardrobe stylist before our session, and they put together A LOT of looks. In fact we had 7 outfits which we fit into a half-day shoot! Talk about really creating versatile content. Once again, here is where planning and prep are everything. We were able to be intentional about shooting 7 looks in one half day session, and successfully giving Gwen the variety in her content that she needed. Of course I have to give a shout out to Paula, my friend and makeup artist, who was with us for the entire session to transition between looks, she makes everything look so effortless. 

I can’t say enough good things about working with the right team. With Lulu’s direction, Gwen’s clear visual inspiration, Kate’s magical wardrobe, and Paula’s always natural HMU, we were able to produce exactly what Gwen wanted.

Where do we shoot? How to determine location | Boston Photographer

Yessss we’ve booked your brand photo shoot! We’ve had our discovery call, you’ve filled out your brand questionnaire, and we have a date on the calendar. We’re off to a great start, and now we must decide - where will we shoot?! Location is one of THE most important elements to planning for your brand photos. The location is our backdrop, the foundation for creating the vibe, for telling your brand story. We have to get this right. I certainly have my suggestions, but really the decision comes down to what feels right for you and your brand.

Here are the spots I suggest turning to first:

Your work space. This is as real and authentic as it gets folks. Where do you ACTUALLY make the magic happen? You do not have to have an HGTV ready space in order for us to have a successful shoot. Think about all the places you work - studio, workshop, living room couch, office desk, your kids’ playroom floor :) Make a list of all your potential workspaces and we can narrow down the most photogenic and relevant from there.

The photo studio. Need a clean, minimal backdrop to show off your products, process, or service? Our studio is a great clean slate to build in a few of your own brand elements.

Outdoors. Infinite possibilities. A well manicured park will NOT be the place for everyone’s photos. But this is a great way to subtly incorporate key elements. Do you operate your biz out of the city? Let’s brainstorm potential city backdrops without being in-your-face about it. Are “organic” and “natural” words you use to describe your brand vibe? Maybe we use soft textures in front of an old barn. Those are two COMPLETELY different stories, just by changing location.

Rented space- Airbnb or Peer Space. I love this option. This may take a little more investigation, but so worth it in my opinion. If you are a food blogger and need a gorgeous kitchen as your backdrop (but your kids and messy kitchen at home make it impossible to shoot there) this is it. These spaces come photo ready, are easy to book, and have a huge range of options if you know what you are going for. This will require a rental fee, but it makes planning for our shoot so easy, I think it’s worth every penny and then some. We don’t want to spend half the day setting up, breaking down, and rearranging. Keep it simple and effective with a turn-key option.

Now that we’ve addressed the BEST spaces to shoot, I want to talk about the places that do not make great locations and why. Generally speaking, public spaces that we can’t get pre approved for shooting, or are open to the public when we want to shoot, do not make great options. There are too many variables that are out of our control and can seriously hinder our ability to shoot. Not having permission ahead of time, and trying to shoot there usually results in disappointment. If we want to shoot at a public space, I’ve learned to ALWAYS ask ahead of time. Even if we do have permission, if we want to use the table in the corner with the best artwork, and best natural light… Guess what? Someone will already be sitting there when we arrive. I’m not saying we never shoot at public spaces, but they will take some extra consideration and planning, and always require a backup plan.

Above all, our location needs to speak to your brand. It needs to be consistent with the look and feel you are going for. This requires some brainstorming together, but is actually a really fun part of the process. The right location makes wardrobe, prop and shot list planning so much easier.

Personal Brand Sessions, What The Heck Are They?

What IS a Personal Brand session? Personal brand sessions start with a consultation to get to know your brand story. Sessions usually include headshots, lifestyle images to capture you in action, as well as details that cater to your specific business. Because the session is so customized to suit your brand, the types of images we create will vary from one business to another... which is totally the fun part!! We are telling YOUR unique story

Who is it for? Short answer - anyone who is representing their brand. Small business owners, solo and entrepreneurs, creative professionals, public figures, coaches, teachers, the list could go on and on...
 

Why do I need it? 🤔Strong images give your brand a personality, they show people who you are as a business and what it’s like to work with you. We live in a visual world, and if people can’t see you, they don’t know if they can trust you. I know it’s not easy being in front of the camera, but if you are the face of your brand, YOU need to be involved in the story!
 
What can I expect? You can expect a personalized, customized experience, that clearly communicates your brand story. We start with a questionnaire and consultation to get to know your brand, this is your chance to throw out any ideas, requests, must haves, or definitely-nots. I love the brainstorming process and once we know where we are going, we can start looking at location and wardrobe options. Hair and makeup is always recommended and helps you look and feel your best in front of the camera. It’s always my goal to make you feel comfortable throughout the shoot so we can capture your true personality and of course THIS WILL BE FUN!!

What can I do with my images? This list could be 10 pages long but let’s stick with the basics for now. 

1. Social media in all its glorious forms! Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Linked In. Social media posts that include an image receive 120-180% more visibility and engagement.

2. Your website - Blogs, home page, about me, landing pages, sales pages, contact, etc.⠀

3. Marketing pieces - Business cards, brochures, mailers, or other printed marketing materials.⠀

4. Press releases, speaking engagements, email signature, anywhere you have the opportunity to show people what it would be like to work with you⠀

I bet you can think of at least 10 more that apply to your specific business. I’d love to know what you can come up with for your business!

What types of images do we create? I know you don’t want 30 versions of a formal headshot... BORING! Of course this varies with every brand, but I love to mix in some lifestyle and “working” photos so that people can truly visualize what it’s like to work with, and just be around you. If you offer products, we’ll get some really great product shots. If you have your own workspace, I love to shoot there and incorporate the vibe of your space

Once I’ve experienced and loved everything about our photoshoot, when can we do it again? YES I hope that’s what everyone says, but honestly, our need for content these days can be overwhelming and it can be so hard to keep up with. Again, everyone has different needs, but we can come up with a plan to shoot weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly to keep your content fresh and consistent!

Personal_Brand_Photography from Emily O'Brien on Vimeo.