As a dedicated brand photographer specializing in empowering women CEOs, I understand the importance of a wardrobe that not only reflects your personality but also tells your brand story with authenticity and impact. Your brand photo shoot is an opportunity to showcase the many aspects of your business and brand identity. In this article, I’ll provide practical advice on how to assemble a fabulous wardrobe for your brand photo shoot that allows you to stand out, exude confidence, and tell your brand story effectively.
Many of my clients ask if they need to purchase an entirely new wardrobe for their brand photo session and I’m here to reassure you that you already have most of what you need in your closet. By incorporating pieces from your existing wardrobe, matching your outfits to the storyboards, creating easy transitions between outfits, and maximizing variety, together we will create the illusion of a dynamic continuous photo shoot that captures the essence of your brand in diverse settings and scenarios.
WARDROBE INVENTORY
Start by taking inventory of your existing wardrobe to identify versatile pieces that align with your brand aesthetic and messaging. Select foundational items such as tailored blazers, classic trousers, and elegant blouses that serve as the backbone of your photo shoot wardrobe. These signature pieces will create easy transitions between different looks and provide a solid base for your brand photoshoot. Be sure that these outfit staples are in good condition, fit you well and make you feel confident.
CURATE A MIX OF PROFESSIONAL AND CASUAL OUTFITS
Select a mix of professional attire and casual wear to cater to the diverse aspects of your business and brand persona. Include tailored suits, sophisticated dresses, and polished separates for formal shots, as well as chic blouses, tailored trousers, and stylish denim for a more relaxed vibe.
EMBRACE COLOR AND PATTERNS
Infuse your wardrobe with a range of colors and patterns to add visual interest and variety to your brand photography. Experiment with bold hues, subtle neutrals, and eye-catching prints to create dynamic and engaging looks that reflect your vibrant personality and brand identity.
LAYERS ARE YOUR BFF
Incorporate layering techniques to increase the versatility of your outfits and create seamless transitions between different shots and locations. This way you can simply add or remove a layer for a different look which will save time and create variety. Layer lightweight jackets, cardigans, and scarves over tops and dresses to create depth and dimension while adapting to changing environments and scenarios.
ACCESSORIZE!
Elevate your outfits with carefully selected accessories that complement your wardrobe and enhance your overall brand image. Choose statement jewelry, stylish belts, and chic handbags to add personality and sophistication to each look, ensuring that no two outfits appear identical.
INCORPORATE BRAND ELEMENTS
Integrate key brand elements such as colors, logos, or motifs into your wardrobe choices to reinforce brand recognition and storytelling. Whether it’s a subtle accent or a bold statement piece, incorporating brand elements into your outfits helps convey your brand identity and narrative consistently throughout the photo shoot. Consider having one or two custom-logo shirts made.
PLAN YOUR OUTFIT TRANSITIONS
You’re going to want your outfit transitions to be as efficient as possible to maximize your shoot time. Work with your photographer to help ensure smooth transitions between shots and locations. Coordinate your outfits based on narrative arcs and color schemes, to create a cohesive visual story that unfolds organically throughout the photo shoot, creating engagement and interest.
BE YOU!
Above all, stay true to your personal style and brand identity!. Choose outfits that make you feel confident, empowered, and authentically yourself, allowing your unique personality and brand essence to shine through in every photograph.
BE SPONTANEOUS
While careful planning is essential, remain open to spontaneity and creativity during your photo shoot. Embrace unexpected opportunities and moments of inspiration, allowing them to influence your wardrobe choices and photography direction, resulting in authentic and impactful brand imagery.
WORK WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Collaborate closely with your brand photographer to ensure your outfits align with the shot list and storyboards for your brand shoot. Your outfits should match your vision, brand identity, and desired aesthetic. Coordinating with your photographer ensures that your outfits enhance the narrative and visual storytelling of your brand imagery, contributing to a cohesive and impactful photo shoot.
BONUS TIP
For assistance with selecting your wardrobe for your brand photo shoot, many of my clients work with a personal stylist. Many local boutiques offer a free styling service where you can bring in your favorite items and get help from the in-house stylist to pull together additional items that match your brand vision. This is such a great option and you get the added bonus of supporting a local business.
By following these practical wardrobe tips, I am confident you can assemble a dynamic and versatile wardrobe for your brand photo shoot that you love! Incorporating pieces from your existing wardrobe, sprinkling in a few new pieces, creating easy transitions between outfits, and maximizing outfit variety will allow you to create compelling and authentic brand imagery that resonates with your audience and elevates your brand presence with style and sophistication.
