If you are a branding photographer, you can no longer just 'point and shoot' and hope for the best during your shoots. Being intentional with what you are shooting and focusing on the details is crucial for creating images that your client will love.
Everyone can take photos on their phones these days, so when people are hiring a branding photographer they are looking for that extra bit of polish in their images.
Attention to detail is what sets great branding photography apart from mediocre photography, and is what gives the client value when they hire hire you.
Here are some ways to focus on the details in your branding photography:
1. Your Clients Presentation
Ok so I have learnt this from experience. Pay attention to what is going on with your clients presentation eg clothes and hair.
Fix their hair before you start shooting, especially those little flyaways on the top of the hair. Always take a can of hair spray and a comb to your shoot in case they are needed.
Be sure to fix any bra straps hanging out of sleeveless shirts or singlets. Make necklace pendants are sitting centre on the neck. Collars are sitting flat. It's noticing these little things that make the difference. And it will save you a heck load of time editing in post!
2. Pay Attention to the Background
When looking through your camera, sweep your eye around the whole image, and notice what is going on in the background.
Are pillows in the right place, not bags in the way, no people or funny reflections in the background. Make sure there are no weird background objects sticking out above the clients head, like pendant lights or flowers etc. I have been caught with leaving my light stand in the background of some images, which is ok, but it just means it takes me longer to edit it out in post😆
3. Lighting
Lighting for me is the first thing I consider when choosing a location. It can make or break an image.
Pay attention to the natural light available in your shoot location and think about how you can use it to create the desired effect. Maybe you need to use artificial lighting, such as a flash or a lightbox if things are looking a bit dark. I generally use natural light where possible and add some extra light when needed with my off camera flash.
4. Composition
Composition is another important element of photography and refers to way in which you put certain elements of the image together.
This includes things like the placement of the subject, the use of lines and shapes, the balance of light and shadow, and the use of colour. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, and other composition techniques to create a visually appealing and engaging photo.
5. Colour
Colour plays a significant role in branding photography, and your clients brand colour palette should considered when planning the shot.
If the client does not want to wear their brand colours in their clothing, then you can add subtle hints of them in props and accessories. Things such as flowers, cushions, notebooks, pens, scarves etc. In the case of the image above, the dining chairs were actually in her branding colours.
6. Texture
Texture is another detail that can add depth and interest to your branding photos.
When selecting backgrounds or surfaces, consider how they will contribute to the overall look and feel of the image. A smooth, flat surface may create a modern and polished look, while a rough or uneven surface can add an element of rawness or rustic vibes.
7. Framing
Framing can be achieved through a variety of techniques, such as adjusting the camera angle, zooming in or out, or cropping the image during post-process
Sometimes shooting from far away through a plant or a doorway can add interesting elements, and give the viewer an overall feel for the image, kind of like a fly on the wall. Shooting closer and cropping into the details can give a totally different perspective, and its good to give the clients a variety of these images
To wrap up
When you are paying attention to the details in your branding photography session you can create images that are 'magazine worthy' for your clients.
By focusing on the elements above, you can create visually appealing photos that elevate your clients brand and make them stand out as an expert in their field, way beyond what they could do with their iphone images!