what to wear to your personal branding shoot
Barnet branding photographer
I’m going to keep this simple, because for many people, getting in front of the camera already feels daunting enough. I’m not about to launch into colour theory or rules about what you should be wearing.
I did actually have my colours done recently by a wonderful local colour consultant, and for anyone who’s curious, I’m a “winter”. It suddenly made sense why I’ve always gravitated towards darker colours (even in summer!) and why I feel most like myself in them. What it also highlighted for me is that while guidance like this is incredibly helpful, transformative even, most of us already have a quiet instinct for the colours and clothes we feel comfortable and confident in.
So that would be my first tip.
1. Wear what makes you feel comfortable
A branding shoot is often a new and unfamiliar experience, and the more relaxes you feel, the better the photos will reflect you. Clothes that help you feel confident and comfortable will always work better than something that you think you should wear but feel awkward in.
2. Choose your brand COLOURS
If we are talking about colour, your brand colours can be a really helpful place to start. Beyond that, think about what makes you look and feel alive. Some people feel their best in bold tones, others in softer, more neutral shades, both can work beautifully.
3. LAYER UP
Layers are incredibly helpful, especially if we’re shooting in one location or working to a shorter timeframe. A cardigan, jacket or scarf can quickly change the feel of an outfit without a full change, and also provides variety in the final gallery of photos.
4. KEEP THINGS SIMPLE
Solid colours tend to photograph really well. Big logos, bold labels or busy prints can be distracting unless they’re genuinely part of your uniform or brand.
The focus should always be on you, not what you’re wearing.
5. HAIR, nails and makeup
Most of my clients do their own make-up, and that’s great. The main thing is that you still feel like yourself. If you’re having your hair done professionally, I’d always suggest doing it a week or so beforehand (if possible), so nothing feels unfamiliar or uncomfortable on the day.
6. Props
Props can be a really natural way to hint at what you do, without needing to explain it. The things you work with every day often help the images feel more familiar and relaxed. These small details can add context without feeling staged.
7. Let the story guide you
Storytelling sits at the heart of how I photograph, and it can be a really helpful way to guide you in thinking about what to wear and what to bring.
For example, if you want your images to feel warm, approachable and welcoming, a very structured blazer might not send the message you’re hoping for. Equally, if your brand is more polished or formal, that structure might be exactly right.
There’s no right answer for what to wear, it’s about aligning what you wear with how you want people to feel when they see your images.
If you’re ever unsure, this is definitely something we can talk through together before the shoot. My role isn’t just to take the photos, but to help you feel comfortable and confident long before I pick up the camera.
If you’re thinking about a branding shoot and want images that feel natural, relaxed and genuinely like you, I’d love to hear more about your business and what you have in mind.
