Tempe, AZ Brand Photographer: How To Prep For Your Brand Photography Photo Shoot
So you’ve booked a brand photography session 🎉—exciting, empowering, and maybe just a little intimidating. If you’re wondering how to prepare without overthinking every detail, you’re in the right place.
As a Tempe Brand Photographer, I’ve guided countless business owners through this process, and I can confidently say: thoughtful preparation leads to confident, on‑brand images that actually work for your business. Let’s walk through how to prep for your brand photography photo shoot in a way that feels organized, intentional, and (mostly) stress‑free.
1. Complete Your Brand Questionnaire
When you receive the brand questionnaire from Shannon Ly Photography, that’s ME, make it a priority. This questionnaire is one of the most important steps in the entire Tempe brand photography process.
Your answers help me understand:
Your business and services
Your ideal client
Your brand personality and tone
How and where your images will be used
The more detail you provide, the more personalized and strategic your images will be. Think of this as setting the creative direction before the camera ever comes out.
2. Create a Pinterest Inspiration Board
Visual inspiration is incredibly helpful when planning a brand photo shoot. Creating a Pinterest board allows you to communicate your style preferences without needing the perfect words.
Pin images that reflect:
Branding photography you love
Color palettes and moods
Posing styles and expressions
Locations, textures, and details
Once complete, share the board with me so we’re aligned visually from the start. This step saves time and helps ensure that I understand your aesthetic and make sure you get all of the different types of photos you’re looking for. Side note: I believe there are 7 distinct types of branding photos every business should have, and my branding sessions make sure you have options of each of those. To learn more about those 7 Must Have Branding Photos, click on this link.
3. Define Your Brand Photography Goals
Before planning outfits or locations, take a moment to clarify why you’re investing in brand photography.
Ask yourself:
Will these images be used on my website, social media, or marketing materials?
Am I launching a new offer or rebranding?
What message do I want my audience to receive?
Strong brand photo shoot goals help guide posing, locations, and image variety—ensuring your photos support your business growth, not just your visuals.
4. Choose the Right Location (or Locations)
Your location plays a huge role in the look and feel of your brand photos.
Common options include:
Your office or workspace for an authentic, behind‑the‑scenes feel
A rented studio or office space for clean, polished imagery
Lifestyle or outdoor locations for a relaxed, approachable vibe
Industry‑specific locations that make sense for your work
As a Tempe Brand Photographer, I help clients select locations that align with their brand while also offering great light, flexibility, and visual consistency.
5. Select Props That Support Your Brand
Props should enhance your brand story—not distract from it.
Bring items you genuinely use in your business, such as:
Laptops, planners, or notebooks
Tools of your trade or products
Packaging, samples, or branded materials
Simple lifestyle details like mugs or books
A friend who can model as a client
If a prop doesn’t naturally belong in your day‑to‑day work, it likely doesn’t belong in your shoot. For more detailed guidance and ideas on props, read this blog post ALL ABOUT PROPS
6. Plan Your Wardrobe Strategically
Wardrobe planning is one of the most impactful steps in preparing for brand photography.
Choose outfits that:
Fit well and feel comfortable
Reflect your brand personality
Photograph cleanly and timelessly
Offer variety through layers or accessories
Avoid bold logos, busy patterns, or overly trendy pieces that may date your images quickly.
For more guidance, visit: What to Wear for Brand Photography (internal link suggestion).
7. Incorporate Your Brand Colors
Your brand colors should be thoughtfully woven into your shoot—not overpowering, but present.
This might include:
One outfit featuring a brand color
Props or accessories in your palette
Locations or backgrounds that complement your tones
Cohesive color use helps your images feel consistent across your website and social platforms.
8. Final Preparation: Hair, Makeup & Grooming
Professional grooming elevates your final images and helps you feel confident on camera.
For many clients, this includes:
Professional hair and makeup appointments
Neutral or brand‑aligned nail colors
For male clients:
Haircuts scheduled a few days prior
Clean, intentional facial hair grooming
The goal isn’t to look different—it’s to look polished, confident, and ready to show up as the face of your business.
Ready for Your Brand Photography Session?
Preparing for your brand photography shoot doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With clear goals, intentional planning, and the guidance of an experienced Arizona Brand Photographer, the process becomes collaborative and empowering.
If you’re ready to elevate your visuals and create images that truly represent your brand, explore Tempe Brand Photography services or contact me, Shannon Ly Photography to get started.
