I’m coming to you with a goody today. You already know how important branding is for your business. It allows you to show up online, showcase your personality and present yourself on your own terms.
Now, I know that not everyone is ready to make the leap and invest in professional branding (which is totally okay!) Baby steps are sometimes required when building your brand and business. But with that, it inspired me to give you some tips to help you set up for your own perfect DIY shoot!
Let’s jump right in on the 5 things you need to do your own DIY branding session!
A phone or camera. First things first, you don’t need an expensive “professional” camera to get good photos! Many phones nowadays have amazing cameras – you just have to know how to use them. Utilize your self timer or camera apps to get the best results. This ensures you can get into position and avoid wasting time trying to run and jump in frame.
A tripod. This is helpful to have for a phone or a camera. A tripod keeps your phone or camera steady (instead of having to prop up books on your couch to get the right angle!) You can find highly rated and affordable options online. I promise this one is a game changer! Here’s a few of my favorites.
This is the full-size tripod that I use most of the time when I am taking self portraits. It’s great quality, affordable, and holds my DSLR camera like a champ!
This is the tripod I use most when just using my phone. It’s bendy, moves in every which way, and can basically attach to anything! This is also a great option to toss in your bag if you’re taking shots on the go!
Lastly, the ring light tripod! It’s not my favorite, but it gets the job done when you’re working with you phone. It’s a great multi-purpose tool if you’re tight on space. It also comes with a fancy case and a fun little bluetooth self timer remote so you can click away without having to go back and forth to the phone.
Lots of light.
The key to any high quality, social media worthy photo is proper lighting! Ask any photographer. If the lighting is off, it just doesn’t work! Natural light is going to be your best friend! If you’re shooting indoors, light colored walls and lots of windows are best when working with natural lighting. If you’re outside, make sure you stay out of direct sunlight. Squinting does not make for good photos! Try shooting in ‘open shade’, which basically means if you’re shooting outside to find a shaded area, but with even lighting. Make sure there’s nothing but sky above you. If you’re wanting to learn a little more about this, click here to watch a short video!
Creativity.
This is a chance to let your personality shine! Take the time to plan out your shoot in advance. Try searching on Pinterest to find the look you’re going for. This will also help when you go to plan outfits and shoot locations! The clearer your vision is for your shoot, the better the photoshoot will be.
Props.
What are things you use everyday? What are your business must haves? Include your favorite coffee mug, planner, laptop, seasonal decor and more! You can even have fun with my personal favorite, confetti! The possibilities with props are truly endless and allow you to showcase your personality. They also make for more visually interesting photos!
Lightroom.
If you’re not familiar with this gem of an app, let me introduce you! Lightroom is an editing app for iPhone and is super user friendly. You don’t have to go all out when you edit photos. I’m a firm believer that just a little tweaking on any photo can make a big difference. I actually have Lightroom presets available on my website that make editing a breeze! Here’s a little before and after action for you.
Now the fun part – putting it all together! Get yourself camera ready, gather your props, tripod & camera and start shooting! Don’t let yourself get stiff. Try putting on your favorite music to get into a good mood. Grab some wine or make a cocktail if that’s your thing.
You could always enlist a friend! If you choose someone you’re comfortable around, you’ll be able to open up and relax and that translates in photos. Make sure you have fun! This should not be something you stress about. Don’t be afraid to be silly and embrace your inner child. Do what feels best to you!
And ta-da! You’re done.
High quality, personalized brand photos for your social media, website and more.
It really can be that easy! If you’re ready to really dig in and learn how to plan and execute an amazing dream session my DIY Branding Session Mini Course might be for you!
