The Top 10 Things To Do When Prepping for Your Branding Shoot

By Marcus Skinner

So… your branding photo or video shoot is on the horizon, and you’re feeling that spicy mix of excitement, nerves, and “did I book glam yet?” Don’t stress—I’ve got you.

As a professional branding photographer and videographer, I’ve walked countless clients through this journey. These are the tried-and-true steps I share to take the pressure off, dial up the confidence, and make sure your visuals scream “booked and busy.”

Let’s dive in:

1. Clarify Your Brand Message

Who are you? What do you do? Why should we care?

Before the camera ever clicks, know what your brand stands for. This isn’t just for you—it gives your photographer (hey, that's me 👋🏽) the creative juice to bring your vision to life with clarity and purpose.

Derrick Young Co-Owner of Well Groomed Man

2. Create a Mood Board

Time to go full creative director. Get on Pinterest, Canva, or a good ol’ physical board and start pinning. Outfits, locations, colors, poses, energy. This helps me see the vibe you’re going for before we ever step on set.

Headshots of Allyson David of Ally D Photography and Graphic Design

3. Plan Your Outfits (And Bring Options!)

One outfit? Cute. Three to five? Strategic.

Think brand colors, different moods (casual, CEO, cozy, killer), and nothing too busy unless visual chaos is your brand. Pro tip: drop those fits at the cleaners a few days in advance so you’re not steaming wrinkles out at midnight like a reality show contestant.

Dr. Bernice Patterson

4. Don’t Forget the Details

Shoes. Accessories. Products. Props. All of it matters. If it helps tell your story or reflects your lifestyle, bring it.

You’re Santa now—make a list and check it twice. And roll in with a suitcase or cart on wheels. Trust me, your shoulders will thank you.

Siedel Shipp- Owner of Celestial Touch Healing Arts

5. Choose the Right Location

Studio? Café? Your home office? A dreamy downtown loft?

Pick a space that matches the energy of your brand. Better yet, let’s do a walkthrough together. It’ll help us map out the day and avoid any “where’s the light switch?” chaos.

Allen Lee- Private Cigar Club

6. Book Hair & Makeup (Or DIY with Confidence)

You want to look like you—but elevated. Whether you go pro or slay it solo, plan to look polished and camera-ready. Bonus tip: schedule it the day before the shoot so you’re not rushing with one eyebrow half-done.

Hammer and Nail -Brea, CA

7. Rest + Hydrate

Sleep is the real beauty filter. Water is the real glow serum.
Drink up. Go to bed early. And yes—mind your business. 😂

8. Practice Posing in the Mirror

I’ll guide you, don’t worry. But practicing in front of a mirror helps you feel natural, powerful, and camera-ready. Strike your Beyoncé stance. Channel your inner boss. Let’s bring that energy.

Bonus: I always send you a custom shot list, so you’ll know exactly what we’re going for.

9. Make a Shot List

What content do you actually need? Website banners? Product shots? Instagram Reels? Email headers?

List it all out so we can shoot with purpose, not just vibes.

Marcus Skinner- CEO/Owner of MaSk Media Branding and Magnus Ipsum Marketing

10. Chill Out—You’ve Got This

You did the prep. You did the work. Now it’s time to show up and shine.

Trust the process. Trust your photographer. Most importantly—trust yourself. Branding shoots are about capturing the version of you that’s already booked, busy, and building something unforgettable.

Let’s Be Real—It’s Time to Stop Hiding and Start Showing Up.

Your brand isn’t here to play small, and neither are you. If you’re ready to turn heads, attract the right people, and make content that actually converts—
then let’s shoot.

Your future clients are already looking for you. Let’s make sure they see you.