We talk a lot about the importance of strong branding and bringing it to life through images. For many creative professions like interior design or culinary arts, it’s easy to envision the possibilities for branding photography. Styled displays of a finished product, glimpses of beautiful materials, and showing the creator in their workspace may come to mind. But what about creative professions that don’t seem to lend themselves well to photography? Should they bother with branding photos, and what kind of images can be created? We’ll tackle those questions today.
Should Every Business Have Branding Photography?
Kathleen Bertrand, Jazz Singer
Photo Credit: CatMax Photography
Yes! Branding photography isn’t only for visually appealing businesses. Every business must distinguish itself through its look, the feeling and message it wants to communicate, and its offering(s). Images can help convey what makes a business unique.
If you’re a solopreneur, performer, or the face of your business, your presentation and your business’s are intertwined. Because branding photos are excellent at showcasing the person behind the work, they’re ideal for these business owners.
What Kind of Images Can We Create?
Like any undertaking, when contemplating branding photography, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of the story you’re trying to tell. Then, the process of brainstorming how to do that visually can begin.
Next, reflect on everything that helps you create your masterpieces, a.k.a final products. We can incorporate any of the following to tell your story in branding photos and branding portraits:
Tools you use for inspiration, such as physical mood boards, magazines, music (shown through records, headphones)
Places you go for inspiration
Where you like to work and why (i.e., a coworking space because you can connect with others, a coffee shop for the scenery and vibrancy)
Decorative items around your workspace that showcase your personality
Items with messaging you find inspiring (mug, desk knickknack, card)
Supplies you use daily (phone, notebook, pencils, tablet, laptop)
Branded pieces (business cards, cups, goodies for clients)
Even the clothes you wear!
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Here are some examples of how this can all come together for a branding photo shoot.
Profession: Writing
The story: A down-to-earth yet polished remote writer who provides energetic and compelling copy.
The images:
Writer in a neutral and relaxed but attractive setting, such as by an interesting piece of street art, a brick wall, or a park. This is ideal if they don’t have a dedicated office space.
Writer speaking with a mock client virtually and taking notes
Writer with a branded item such as a mug or T-shirt
Printed writing pieces attractively displayed
Profession: Website or App Design
The story: A forward-thinking tech creative who takes pride in delivering innovative products that break design molds.
The images:
Inspiration pieces printed and displayed
Designer in an area that inspires them
Designer and a close-up of their screen during the creation process
Cellphone or laptop attractively displayed and showing the website or app on the screen
Any story can be communicated visually; some simply require more creativity than others. Consider how far images of large-scale manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries formerly shrouded in mystery have come. Today, we see photos from them that communicate warmth, care, and reassurance. The same is possible with your profession. CatMax Photography is here to help you see the possibilities and work with you to tell your story. To learn more about making that happen, click here.