How to choose a location for your branding shoot
photographing business owners in north London
Using real spaces to tell your brand story
People often ask if I have a studio, and I can completely understand why. When we think of professional photography, we tend to picture clean backdrops, a chair to perch on, big studio lighting. Or sometimes it’s the worry that “There’s nowhere in my home that is tidy enough”.
The photos I love most aren’t taken against a backdrop, or perfectly minimalist spaces. They’re made in the places that already hold part of your story: the desk where you write your newsletter, the cosy corner where you pack orders, the café where you come up with new ideas.
For small businesses, these spaces give a quiet nod to your brand without you even needing to try. They provide context and individuality, and most importantly they are relatable. That sense of familiarity helps create connection, which is what so many of us are hoping for when we share our work.
Comfort Brings Confidence
A lot of my clients arrive feeling nervous about being in front of the camera (and I’m the same). Add an unfamiliar location, bright lights and a designated place to sit, and it’s easy to feel even more self conscious.
When you’re somewhere you connect with, whether that’s your home, your workspace, or an outdoor space that feels right, you naturally relax. And that’s when the best images happen: the ones where you look like you.
Being comfortable in your surroundings means you can focus less about posing and simply about being present. The right location can elevate the energy of the shoot, and as part of the pre-shoot preparation that I do with every business owner, we will talk through different location options together and choose one that best supports the story you want your images to tell.
Sometimes a Studio Space Fits - And That’s Fine Too
Of course, there are times when a studio is the right choice. If you are looking for something clean, minimal or something a little more polished, I’m happy to help source a beautiful space in London (there’ll just be an extra hire fee on top of your package).
That said, for most small businesses, I’d always encourage you to embrace the warmth, personality and real life of the places you already work and live in. Those everyday details, even the imperfect ones, add depth and honesty to your images. And that’s often what makes them feel timeless.
If you’re ready for branding images that feel natural, relaxed and genuinely like you, and that show the heart of your business, I’d love to hear more about what you have in mind. Let’s chat about how we can tell your story, no plain backdrops or awkward poses required.
