I’ve been doing Branding photography alongside wedding and family photography for a few years now and I think I’ve learnt a few important things…

It doesn’t matter who you are and what you look like, everyone gets nervous

Its usually the first thing people tell me… “I’m so nervous” quickly followed by “I’m sorry…I’m not very photogenic”. And its usually down to a few things.

The fear of being visible.

You know that to get your business out there people have to know you actually exist but the thought of having a photoshoot terrifies you.

Not feeling particularly attractive

Whether thats just because you’re thinking that anyone who has a photoshoot must be gorgeous or you’re put on a little weight (or you’re got some health issues) .

The unknown

Not knowing what to expect and only ever experiencing professional photos at school or your wedding may leave you wondering what on earth is going to happen.

No one ever one knows how many pairs of shoes to bring

This has to be the most frequently asked question ever. And the answer is really the most simple.

Unless you’re known for your shoes (or you sell shoes maybe), what you’ve got on your feet isn’t going to be all that important.

Yes you’re going to want to be wearing shoes that you’re happy to be photographed in (so no scruffy shoes) but in the scheme of your shoot, the majority of the photos are going to be of your lovely face.

The shoots that work the best have been planned

Yes, we’ve planned a location that’s going to work for your brand, your colours and its going to work for the type of business you run.

You’re going to have thought about what you’re wearing, the colours, the fit and the style are all important for conveying the type of person you are.

You’ll be bringing along some props too to include something more personal about who you are.

We’ve also looked at posing and the types of images you’re comfortable with and think you’d like to use for inspiration.

And we know exactly where you’re going to be using your photos, whether that’s on social media, printed media or your website.

Our capacity for self doubt is immense

I haven’t met a woman who hasn’t felt some form of doubt about what she’s doing.

Whether thats doubt about how they look or imposter syndrome about whether they should even be having a shoot.

No one ever knows what to do with their hands.

Should you put them on your hips and go for the classic pose? Or may be in your pockets to look all cool?

Knowing what to do with your hands is bar far the trickiest thing at a shoot (more than trying to get a natural smile out of someone who looks terrified…)

If you leave them dangling at your sides, you might look odd…and it’s not always that flattering on the tops of your arms.

I’ve found that having something to do with your hands, or at least having something to hold on to can work well. As can crossing your arms, hugging yourself, leaning your chin on to your hands (although for this think pretty ballerina hands rather than lobster claws…).

Maryanne x

———> PS Don’t forget that VISIBILITY SCHOOL is now enrolling for its very first school year (12 months of personal branding photoshoots)