Common branding photo mistakes and how to avoid them

Branding photography is a powerful way to communicate who you are and what you do. But getting the most out of your shoot requires more than just showing up and smiling at the camera. Here are common mistakes people make when planning a branding photoshoot and how to avoid them.

1. Not planning enough time to prepare

Branding photography isn’t something to be done at the last minute. Rushing the planning phase can leave you with images that don’t fully represent your brand or work across all your marketing platforms.

Tip: Take time to fill out any pre-shoot questionnaires and participate in the planning call. 

It will help define your goals and know how you’ll use the photos.

2. Not allowing enough time on the day of the shoot

A branding session isn’t just about snapping a few quick shots. It takes time to adjust lighting, perfect poses and capture a variety of looks. If you're in a rush, your session might feel stressful and you may not get all the shots you need.

Tip: Plan extra time for outfit changes, hair and makeup touch-ups, and unexpected delays.

If you need a wide variety of images, consider booking a longer session. The more relaxed and unhurried you feel, the better the final photos will be!

3. Skipping professional hair & makeup

Even if you prefer a natural look, a professional makeup artist can help you feel your best and ensure you look polished on camera. Good lighting and lenses pick up every detail including smudges and flyaways!

Tip: Invest in hair and makeup, trust me on this one! You’ll feel so much more confident, and it will show. If professional services aren’t an option, do you best to control frizzy hair and apply light make-up.

4. Choosing the wrong location

Your background should complement your brand, not clash with it. A messy or visually overwhelming location can distract from

 and what you’re trying to convey.

Tip: Select locations that align with your brand personality, whether that’s a cozy café, a nice office, or an outdoor space. Avoid locations with too much visual clutter or poor lighting.

5. Relying on trends over personal style

It’s tempting to copy the latest trends on Instagram, but what works for someone else might not suit your brand. When your photos don’t feel like you, they can confuse your audience or come across as inauthentic.

Tip: Choose clothing, colours, and locations that match your authentic style. And go for timeless over trendy so your photos stay relevant longer.

6. Not planning how you'll use the photos

You just had an amazing photoshoot, don’t let those gorgeous images sit on your hard drive! One of the biggest mistakes is not having a plan for where and how to use them.

Tip: Think about where your photos will be used: your website, social media, press features, email marketing.

Create a shot list with a mix of headshots, lifestyle images, and behind-the-scenes moments, tools of the trade, etc.

Consider different crops and orientations so your images fit across multiple platforms.

7. Not being yourself on camera

Trying to look or act a certain way that doesn’t feel natural often comes through in the final images. Authenticity is key.

Tip: The more you embrace who you are, the stronger your brand message will be.

Final thoughts

Branding photography is a game-changer for your business, but a little planning, as much time as it may take, makes all the difference. Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll walk away with a collection of stunning, versatile images that elevate your brand and ultimately be more successful.

Want to make sure your branding session is a success? Let’s plan your shoot together, reach out to book!