If you show up to your brand photo session with the same energy you’d bring to a dental appointment, it’s going to show in your photos. And no one wants “root canal vibes” on their website headshot.
The good news? You can absolutely set yourself up for success so your photos look—and feel—like the best version of you.
Spoiler: it’s not your outfit or your pose. The energy you bring to your brand shoot changes everything—here’s how to set yourself up for photos you love.
1. Hire a Photographer Who Guides the Process
You don’t need someone who just takes nice pictures—you need someone who can walk you through the entire process. From storylines to locations to the tiniest details, your photographer should make you feel supported every step of the way. When you feel confident in their plan, you’ll feel confident in front of the camera.
2. Choose a Photographer Who Uses Strategy
The secret to brand photos that actually work? Strategy. Before my clients ever step in front of the camera, we’ve already mapped out the visuals, stories, and moods that connect with their audience. That prep work means your photos aren’t just flattering—they’re purposeful, on-brand, and ready to do their job in your business.
Read my post on the journey to getting amazing, on-brand photos.
3. Get Help From a Stylist
If choosing outfits makes you want to hide under a blanket, hire a stylist. They’ll help you pick looks that actually fit your brand personality (and flatter you on camera), steam your clothes, and make sure every outfit is ready to go. Bonus: they’ll be on set to fix details so you don’t have to think about whether your blazer is sitting right or if your necklace clasp is showing.
My favorite local stylist? Lora from shoppinggirlxoxo.
4. Get Ready on Set With Hair + Makeup
One of the best things you can do for your energy is to build “getting ready” right into your shoot day. Show up with your bag of outfits, then sit down in a chair and let the pros take over. While your hair and makeup artist works their magic, you get to relax, sip coffee (or champagne), and ease into the day. By the time we start shooting, you’re already feeling confident, calm, and fully in the zone.
I have a list of some of my favorite hair and makeup artists who travel to wherever we do your photo shoot. I give this resource to everyone who books with me!
5. Protect the Creative Energy
Your photographer is there to direct, plan, and create—not to spend the whole day pulling you out of a funk. If they’re using all their energy trying to lift your mood, that leaves less room for creativity, problem-solving, and catching those spontaneous magic moments. Decide before you arrive that this is going to be a good time. Bring your favorite playlist, breathe, and let yourself enjoy the process. The more positive energy you bring, the more room your photographer has to create the photos you really want.
The Bottom Line
Energy is contagious—and it shows in your photos. When you hire the right team, prep the details, and step into the day ready to enjoy yourself, the results won’t just be pretty pictures. They’ll be images that feel natural, confident, and completely you.
👉 Want more tips on how to plan a brand shoot that actually works for your business?
