You’ve booked your brand shoot, cue the excitement (and maybe a tiny bit of panic). What do you wear? What if you forget something important? How do you make sure your photos actually look and feel like your brand?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether you’re a café owner, a creative business, or a small brand finally ready to invest in visuals that feel like you, this checklist will take the stress out of prep and make your session run like a dream.

Step 1: Get clear on your brand story

Before you even think about outfits or props, start with your why.
Ask yourself:

What do I want these photos to say about my business?
How do I want people to feel when they see them?
Where will I use them — website, Instagram, print, press?

Having clarity here will guide every decision, from location to styling.

Branding photoshoot tip: Create a Pinterest or Canva moodboard to share with your photographer. It helps align your brand visuals and ensures your photographer captures the exact vibe you’re going for.

Huddersfield Brand Photography

Step 2: Choose your outfits wisely

Your clothes should reflect you and your brand not what you think you “should” wear for a shoot. If your business is relaxed, creative, and colourful, let that shine through. If it’s elegant and refined, go for timeless neutrals.

Bring 2–3 outfit options so you can mix up your looks. Think textures, layers, and accessories that add interest without distracting from your face or product.

Pro tip: Keep a lint roller, hairbrush, and spare shirt handy you’ll thank yourself later.

Business photography

Step 3: Gather your props

Props bring your brand to life. For makers, that might be your tools or materials. For café owners, it’s your coffee, pastries, and signature mugs.
For service providers, maybe it’s your laptop, notebook, or even a good cup of tea.

Props add context, tell your story, and make your shoot more authentic so don’t overthink it, just bring what naturally fits your world.

Branding photoshoot tip: Bring a mix of lifestyle and product props for variety in your final gallery.

Brand Photography

Step 4: Prep your space

If we’re shooting in your workspace, give it a little love before shoot day. Declutter surfaces, tidy cables, and add a few touches that feel on-brand a vase of fresh flowers, a candle, or some styled stationery.

Good light and a clean, styled space make all the difference.

Pro tip: Natural light always wins! Open blinds and curtains for soft, flattering light.

Business Photography Huddersfield

Step 5: Get into the right headspace

It’s totally normal to feel a bit nervous before a shoot most people do, and I still feel nervous before a shoot.
But remember: this isn’t about being perfect. It’s about capturing you, the person behind the brand. Laugh, move, chat, and just be yourself.
The best photos happen in those in between moments.

Try to get a good night’s sleep, hydrate, and give yourself plenty of time in the morning so you’re not rushing.

Step 6: Trust the process

You’ve done the prep, you’ve brought your energy, now it’s time to enjoy it. Your photographer (hi, that’s me!) will guide you through poses, angles, and light so you can feel confident and natural in front of the camera.

Brand shoots are meant to be fun, a celebration of your hard work and the incredible business you’ve built.

Brand Photography West-Yorkshire.

Your brand shoot, your story

When done right, a brand shoot doesn’t just give you pretty photos it gives you confidence, clarity, and a visual story that connects with your audience.

So take a deep breath, tick off your checklist, and get ready to see your brand in a whole new light.

If you’re planning your next shoot and want a photographer who’ll help you feel at ease while capturing your brand at its best, let’s chat. I’d love to bring your story to life.

Based in Huddersfield, West-Yorkshire | Brand & business photography for business owners.

The Ultimate Brand Shoot Checklist: How to Prepare for Your Photography Session