How to Prep Your Workspace for Branding Images- Boulder Creek Photo

When I talk to my business branding clients, one of the first things they ask is, “Should we take branding photos in our own space?” My short answer is always “Yes”, but there are a few things that I always recommend doing to make sure your space photographs well!

Recently I worked with local business owner Amy, who teaches pressed-flower art classes at StarView Vineyard. First of all, I’m absolutely OBSESSED with the art that she teaches her students to create! If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about pressed-flower art and you’re in the Tri-State area, definitely check out her class. Since Amy teaches a class, we chatted about the best ways to capture her product in action. We decided that a mix of details imagery and in-action class imagery would be best. Amy laid out all of her supplies so they were accessible and easy to photograph, which translated beautifully to the photos (just scroll down to have a look).

Here are a few easy tips to make sure your space is ready for branding images…

1. Make Sure Your Space is Neat & Tidy

Obviously, clutter and little things like stray computer cables, old coffee cups, receipts, and miscellaneous pieces of paper will make your branding images feel unprofessional. That being said, I still want to make sure the space feels (and looks) like a reflection of you. For example, if you’re known for using TONS of sticky notes in your day-to-day work life, then I think those should be featured. It shows uniqueness! If you’re not sure how to decide what’s “unique” and what’s just messy, pull out your phone and take a photo of your space. If it looks messy or cluttered on your screen, you need to clean up! You can also hire a cleaning company to help you do a once-over deep clean.

2. Incorporate personal elements

While it’s important to make sure things look tidy, keep some personal elements visible! I mean, take me as an example: Those who know me know I savor the coziness of a cup of coffee. So, I always brew a fresh cup for myself before taking my own branding images. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think your personality/brand should revolve around “loving coffee”, but it’s important to feature some of your favorite things in your branding images. Or if you love fresh flowers, have a fresh bouquet (or two) as styling props. Giving your customers a behind-the-scenes look is vital. After all, that’s how your future customers will connect with you!

3. Have stock supplies and merchandise on hand

If you’re a product-based business, like Southern Illinois Mercantile (featured below), have product on hand! Empty shelves, discontinued products, or no product at all will result in branding images that don’t reflect your current brand. On the other hand, service-based businesses need to have a clear working environment. Since we can’t photograph exactly what you’re delivering to your clients, your brand imagery will primarily be “action” shots of you, working. If you have digital deliverables, like a mood board or website, having a sample deliverable on your computer is super helpful! Of course, anything branded like business cards, pens, or other branded materials will always be perfect to include.

Are you ready to transform your marketing with a branding image photoshoot?

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to invest in branding images, this is your sign! Get your new branding photoshoot done and start the fiscal year off with a fresh start! I know that your business is unique, which is why I have two unique branding image package options for you: a one-time branding image photoshoot and a business branding subscription. Select the option that works best for your business and let’s get started! Not sure how to use branding imagery? Click here to check out 5 ways you can incorporate branding photos into your marketing plan.