This week I thought I’d share some tips from Visibility School Members.
Your first shoot is always going to be a bit of a learning curve. I always think that first shoot is just to learn how it works, get some nice photos (obviously) but basically not worry about anything else. No need to worry about your branding, bringing changes of clothes or props… that can come later.
However this is what some of our current members think you should know…
Rachelle Atkins – Yorkshire Marketing Company
“I plan the messages I want to push out on my socials and the types of images I need on my different website pages ahead of time, so that I can bring the right coloured outfits, props etc
I’ve bought a fab sign for the next shoot 
(watch this space). This is the photo I used to promote the announcement of my Marketing Mentorship Accreditation. Dressed smartly with my “Small Business – Big Dreams” tee (I work with small businesses with big dreams), brought my study books as props, a cup of coffee (I love coffee) and then just had to add my accreditation badges. With your camera/styling wizardry you helped to pull it all together.”
Helen Phillips – Humanist Celebrant
“I didn’t really consider outfits at first but now I try to have different ones to add more variety to my photos on the same shoot. I know some people do full costume changes but I tend to plan a capsule approach so for example last month I had 3 different looks from a shirt over t-shirt and dungarees, plus different hair and glasses on/off 
A different jacket, sunglasses or a hat can add a different look.”
Josie Armitage – Grant Application, Support & Consultation
“I make sure that I wear different clothes each time to add to my portfolio of photos. I then choose from them to use my photos on LinkedIn. I find it useful to have a range of photos in different seasons to reflect the weather when posting.
For indoor shoots, I have brought a cup, laptop and notebooks which I love.”
Vivienne Rawnsley – The Life Editor
“Hunt out branding coloured clothing and props to use so viewers instinctively know it’s you and yours even before they’ve engaged in a post. Wear a neutral plain coloured long vest top and big knickers so that quick changes are appropriate any place any where anytime.”
Michelle Cowan
“Wearing colours that are ‘on brand’ and making an effort with my hair and makeup”.
(Maryanne: A really great tip was that before one of the shoots in the centre of Leeds, Michelle had a free make-up trial).
Jayne Adamson – Plum Product Marketing
“Don’t be afraid to mess around a bit, it won’t always work 😂 but one time you’ll get a nugget that’s great for your content.”
(Maryanne: we’ve tried all sorts of shots including a a ukulele…)
Dawn Farr – The Style Apparent
“It’s all about wearing the right outfit, but then I would say that, wouldn’t I?!? 🤣 I’d add that trusting you with the process on the day is also fundamental.”
And when you’re ready, here are three other ways that I can help you:
1) Visit my blog for tips on VISIBILITY.
Every week I discuss strategies to improve your visibility, get over your fear of visibility and my latest shoots. Read here
2) Plan a bespoke photoshoot.
We can plan a shoot based on what you actually need (read more) or you could join me at a Branding Day.
3) Join ‘Visibility School’.
Visibility school is a membership group where you get 12 months of photoshoots, a fab little Facebook group and a Visibility Toolkit (new for 2023/4 members) . Read
