Planning a branding shoot can feel exciting… and also a bit nerve-wracking.
If the thought of being in front of the camera makes you want to hide behind your laptop, you’re absolutely not alone.As a North Yorkshire brand photographer, I work with small business owners, creatives and entrepreneurs across York, Leeds, Harrogate and beyond who want images that feel like them – natural, relaxed and not at all awkward.
So if you’ve booked (or are thinking about booking) a branding shoot, here are five things worth considering to help you get the most out of it.
1. Choose a Branding Photographer you actually feel comfortable with
This one matters more than almost anything else.
You’ll get the best brand photos when you feel relaxed, understood and not judged. So yes, style and editing matter – but so does personality.
Look for a photographer who:
- Talks about confidence, not perfection
- Works with people who describe themselves as “awkward in photos”
- Shoots in a way that feels natural, not overly posed
If you’re a small business owner in North Yorkshire, Leeds or York, your branding photographer should feel like someone you could happily chat to over a coffee. That comfort always shows in the images.
By the way – ou can view my portfolio and some reviews here.
2. Pick a location that reflects your brand
Your branding shoot location sets the tone straight away.
Think about:
- Where you normally work
- Where your clients imagine you working
- The vibe you want your brand to give off
That might be:
- Your home workspace
- A cosy café in York
- An outdoor spot in North Yorkshire
- A clean, modern space in Leeds
There’s no “right” answer – it’s about what feels authentic to your business and the people you want to attract.
3. Wear something that feels like you
You don’t need to reinvent yourself for a branding shoot.
The best outfits are:
- Comfortable
- True to your everyday style
- In colours that work well with your brand
If you’re constantly adjusting your clothes, you’ll feel self-conscious – and that will show. I always suggest choosing something you’d wear to meet a client on a really good day, rather than something that doesn’t feel like you at all.
And if you want to, consider booking in with a hair stylist and/or make up artist to really make yourself feel amazing in your photos.
4. Bring props that tell your story
Brand photography isn’t just about smiling at the camera.
Props help tell the story of what you actually do, whether that’s:
- A laptop
- Your tools or products
- A notebook and pen
- Packaging or samples
- A coffee mug you genuinely use
These details help create variety in your gallery and give you images you can use across your website, Instagram, emails and marketing.
5. You don’t need to know how to pose (honestly)
This is the big one.
You don’t need to practise poses.
You don’t need to know what to do with your hands.
You don’t need to “be photogenic”.
My job as a brand photographer in North Yorkshire is to guide you gently, keep things relaxed, and capture you as you naturally are. Most people arrive saying “I hate having my photo taken” and leave saying “that was actually… fun”.
And that’s exactly how it should feel.
Final Thoughts
A branding shoot isn’t about pretending to be someone else.
It’s about showing up as you – confidently, honestly and comfortably.
If you’re a small business owner in North Yorkshire, York, Leeds or Harrogate and you want brand photos that feel natural and approachable, I’d love to help.
Get in touch here to chat about your branding shoot – no pressure, no awkward sales chat, just a friendly conversation.
