Well hello there! If you’re a surface pattern designer looking to get great brand photos, I’ve got some tips to help you out today!!
First things first, you need to define your brand identity. Think about your brand’s colors, typography, and design elements, and what message you want to convey through your brand. This will help you choose the right props, backgrounds, and settings for your photos.
Once you have an idea of your brand identity you can start thinking about your shoot. Whether you are using a professional photographer or are planning on taking photos yourself, or even asking a friend, this is something that needs to be carefully planned out!
1. Research and choose the right photographer
This is a really important step. Whether your photographer is a professional or a your bestie, make sure that their style of photography matches your brand. You need to make sure they can tell your story in your way and provide you with some unique images! The best way to find the right photographer is to do some research, Ask for recommendations, use Google, look at their photos, their style and see if it matches your style. If it does, book a call in so you can discuss your wishes and make sure that you are going to feel as comfortable as you can with them. A professional should put you at ease and help you feel confident, both in the planning stages, and in front of the camera!
2. Plan your shoot
Once you have a clear understanding of your brand identity, you can start planning your photo shoot. Consider what type of photos you want to take – do you want lifestyle shots or product shots? Do you want to showcase your designs in a specific setting or against a certain backdrop? Think about the props you want to use, and plan out your shots in advance. Make sure you cover all the bases, from headshots, to images of you working, with your family, in a place you love, and just being you!
3. Plan the right lighting
Lighting is one of the most important factors in creating good photos. You can use it to lend your photos the vibe you want, for example, to create warm, earthy tones, or a golden glow. Both are similar but need different light sources. If you aren’t sure, ask your photographer for ideas. And if you know what you are after, make sure to communicate it to your photographer!
Natural light is often the best choice, as it’s flattering and gives your photos a soft, natural feel. Try to shoot during the golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the best results. If you’re shooting indoors, use soft lighting to avoid harsh shadows.
4. Style your brand photos
Styling your photos is essential to creating a cohesive brand identity. Think about this in advance. Choose props and backgrounds that complement your designs, and the story you want to tell, and use them consistently across your photos. Experiment with different layouts and angles to create interest and variety.
5. Have fun on your shoot
If you are anything like me, you hate being in front of the camera! If you are, then it’s time to remember to relax, have fun, and have faith in your photographer!
Being silly and having fun can show a different side to your personality and it’s good to have a mix of photos you can use at a later date. You don’t just want hundreds of head shots from different angles!
6. Photo editing your brand photos
This is something your photographer will likely do if you are using a professional. Either way, once you’ve taken your photos, it’s time to edit them. You, or your photographer, can use software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation of your images. But whatever you do, make sure your photos are consistent in terms of color and tone to maintain a cohesive brand identity.
Once you have your photos, make sure you use them across all of your marketing channels. This includes your website, social media, and marketing materials. Consistency is key, so use the same style and props across all of your photos to create a strong and recognizable brand identity.
Remember getting good brand photos as a surface pattern designer is essential to establishing a strong brand identity and attracting potential customers. And it is never too early to start projecting yourself as a professional, which is why brand photography is so important even when you are starting out! If you want to learn more about the importance of brand photography for surface pattern designers, you can read my other post here. But by following today’s tips, you can create high-quality photos that showcase your unique designs and create a cohesive brand identity.
Don’t forget to grab my Ultimate Guide to Brand Photography for Creatives – let me guide you through brand photography and the steps you need to take with my guide and bonus worksheets!