Make the most of your mini branding session • DC Branding photoshoot

HOW TO PREP FOR A MINI BRANDING SESSION?

Getting ready for a mini branding session is like giving your brand a makeover – it's that transformative! You're about to show off some visual magic that'll speak volumes to your audience and give your brand that extra oomph. Here are some easy steps to prep for a killer mini branding session that totally captures your brand vibe!

What is a branding mini session?

A personal branding mini is a quick and easy photoshoot that usually lasts 20-30 minutes. The sessions are back to back at a designated location (be on time!). It’s great if you’re after a fresh update for your website or need new images for social media.

It’s more affordable and you end up with a few photos that you can use to refresh your online presence. As they are quicker, it’s perfect if you cannot commit to a full day.

Who are mini sessions great for?

Mini sessions are perfect for those starting out and needing social media or website photos. They are ideal for creatives, or anyone looking for non-boring headshots and wanting to break free from traditional corporate headshots (I’m looking at you real estate agents, doctors, lawyers…). A mini session is perfect if you need to capture brand vibes for specific seasons like winter, holidays, summer or if you’re launching a new service or product. They are usually shot on location, either in a studio in washington, DC or outdoor when possible.

How to prep for picture day?

As you’d do for a full session, you want to make sure you are eating healthy, have enough sleep, and you’re feeling at your best (maybe with a fresh haircut or fresh mani?)

Minis are fast-paced so to make good use of your time, you want to organize your clothes, props, and accessories the night before.


How about your outfit?

When it comes to your wardrobe, I recommend 2 outfits per session.

You can start with jeans and a cute top with a blazer. Then take off the blazer and change shoes or no shoes at all! You can wear or just hold a hat. Wear clothes that make you feel confident.

Don’t be afraid to pick something that makes you stand out.  You can be bold with your look! Depending on your personality, you can pick pieces that are a little bit more sassy and fun (leather pants, a cocktail dress, a jumpsuit…).

TIP: Plan to wear your favorite outfit after we get a few photos of you. The first ones are always a great warm-up and we really start to see the magic come out after a few minutes. 


What props for a personal brand session?

As our time is limited, we can only focus on a few essential props. If you have brand colors (or colors you like), we want to make sure to showcase these in more ways than one. You can use a notebook, journal, books, coffee mugs… Don’t forget your laptop/ iPad/ phone for a few working shots. Or you can also bring some pillows that we will use on a couch or bed.

If you want to keep your hand busy, bring sunglasses, or a book, a magazine, a planner, your business card, some colorful pens.

What photos can I expect?

I got you covered! You will receive a gallery with formal-ish headshots, lifestyle portraits (or personality shots) to show off who you are, details (you at work, behind-the-scene), standing and sitting poses, horizontal and vertical shots to you use them on different pages/ spots on your website.

Have fun!

Branding photoshoots are FUN so don’t take yourself too seriously. Let your personality shine. The more authentic your images will come out.

Smile big and show your personality as much as you can. If you do this, you’re going to be obsessed with the results!