Finding the Brand Photographer That Fits

So, you’ve decided to hire a branding photographer for you or your business. Excellent decision! But now the question is, where do you look to find the right one? And what photographer is the best fit for you? Lots of factors are important in your search, especially if you want your personal brand to be different from your competitors. Here’s my take on tips for finding a photographer that will best bring your branding to life.

Make Sure it Feels Right

First off, great photography has little to do with how you look and everything to do with how you feel during your photo session. Even if you think you “can’t take a great photo to save your life,” I promise you that’s not really the case. However, if you’re uncomfortable, the photos will show that. If you’re beaming, the photos will, too. 

You, as the subject, deserve to shine, so it’s beyond important for the photographer to bring ease, kindness, and fun to every session. Having a connection with your photographer makes you feel comfortable, so make sure their personality vibes with yours. If you have a good experience, you will get an outcome you love. 

Match the Style and Vibe

Explore the photographer’s portfolio and get to know their style to make sure it matches with yours and is consistent with what you want to convey in your brand. For example, are you looking for someone really organized, or do you want someone more freeform? Are you looking for photos that use natural lighting, or are you hoping for hard shadows and contrasts? Make sure your expectations match up. If you aren’t sure where you fit in with someone's style, be up front and let them know what you are looking for.

Expect Specialized Experience

Branding photography is different from other photographic styles because of the intentional marketing goals behind the images. A personal branding photographer needs to know how to tell a story and help you represent your persona and vision, so make sure the photographer you like specializes in this style or at least has knowledge of and experience doing it. This is vastly important to gain a gallery of photos that work FOR you. The more they understand proper branding, the better. Then they work to achieve your personal marketing goals and voila…you have magic!

Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There should always be a consultation component to hiring a photographer. Ask about their process. How do they go about planning a shoot? How do they organize the shoot to make it go smoothly so you get the images you need? Do they offer packages? Make sure there’s no confusion about the process and ask away!

Check Reviews and Insurance

Look up their reviews or ask for references from previous clients to ensure the photographer is trustworthy and dependable. Do they have a website, social media, etc? Scope these all out and see what resonates with you. It may also spark more questions and conversations if you have more intel on their work. Also, please make sure you’re working with someone who has a legal, tax-paying, and insured business. This is an investment in your company and you don’t want to have any issues. It’s important to protect your investment, because that’s what high quality branding photography is. 

Above all else, I urge you to go into the entire process with an open heart and open mind... after all that’s when you shine the brightest!