November 25, 2021
Education
· Photography
· Tips & Technique
How to prepare for your team branding session!
Your team branding session is an opportunity to showcase the collective personality, professionalism, and passion behind your business. Whether your team consists of a few members or a larger group, these tips will help you prepare and make the most of your session. If you have any questions as you get ready, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to guide you through every step.
Define Your Team’s Brand
Before the session, take a moment to reflect on what makes your team unique. As a group, brainstorm 10 descriptive words that best represent your business and the vibe you want to convey. Are you professional and polished, creative and innovative, or warm and approachable? These words will serve as the foundation for our session, ensuring your images align with your brand’s identity and values.
This session is all about bringing your branding vision to life through everything we do!
your vision your vibe
Consistency Across the Board
A cohesive look is essential for building trust and recognition with your audience. Whether you’re creating images for your website, social media, or marketing materials, consistency is key. For your session:
- Colors: Coordinate team outfits with your brand palette. Neutral tones or complementary colors work well for a polished look. Avoid clashing patterns or overly bright shades that distract from your team.
- Vibes: Decide on a shared style or tone, such as formal, casual, or business-casual, to ensure everyone looks unified while still being authentic.
Your team’s branding session is about showcasing both individuality and collaboration, so aim for a balance between cohesion and personal expression
Highlight Your Business and Props
Think about the tools, products, or props that represent your business. These might include:
- Key equipment, tools, or materials your team uses daily.
- Products you create or sell.
- Branded items like notebooks, mugs, or packaging.
Including these elements not only tells your story but also adds depth to your gallery. Make a list of items that showcase your business in action and bring them to the session.
Pinterest for Team Inspiration
If you haven’t already, create a Pinterest board to share your vision. This board can include:
- Outfit ideas for both male and female team members.
- Poses or group shots you love.
- Colors and aesthetics that align with your brand.
This visual guide will help us plan a session that feels true to your business and ensures we’re all on the same page.
Location Sets the Tone
The right location can elevate your session and tie everything together. Consider spaces that reflect your business, such as:
- Your office or workspace.
- A local studio or rented venue.
- An outdoor setting that complements your brand.
If you’re unsure, I can recommend locations across the Fraser Valley and Vancouver area that suit your team’s needs. Once we’ve chosen the spot, we’ll schedule the session at the best time for natural light and a relaxed atmosphere.
Hair and Grooming Tips
Looking polished and professional helps everyone feel confident in front of the camera. For your session:
- For Women: Loose, natural hairstyles photograph beautifully. Consider adding soft curls or a simple blowout for extra movement. If you prefer professional makeup, I can connect you with a trusted artist who offers exclusive discounts for my clients.
- For Men: A fresh haircut and a trimmed beard (if applicable) can make all the difference. Pay attention to grooming details like collar stays and polished shoes for a sharp finish.
Encourage your team to choose looks that feel natural yet elevated, ensuring everyone feels their best.
Outfit Planning for the Team
Coordinating outfits doesn’t mean matching exactly—focus on complementing colors and styles instead. Here are some tips:
- For Women: A base outfit like tailored pants or a dress can be layered with blazers, cardigans, or scarves to create variety. Choose accessories like simple jewelry or statement pieces that reflect your personal style.
- For Men: Well-fitted trousers or chinos paired with a button-up shirt or a sweater work well. A blazer can add a touch of sophistication, while neutral shoes or loafers keep the look clean.
- For Everyone: Stick to timeless colors like navy, gray, beige, or muted earth tones. Avoid bold patterns, neon colors, or logos that may distract from the overall look.
Make sure clothing is clean, pressed, and comfortable for a polished yet relaxed appearance.
Relaxed, Confident Posing
Group sessions can feel a bit intimidating, especially if some team members are camera-shy. My job is to make everyone feel at ease, ensuring the session is fun and natural. During the session:
- I’ll guide you through poses that reflect your team dynamic—nothing stiff or awkward.
- We’ll mix candid moments with structured shots for a variety of images.
- Breaks are always an option if someone needs to reset or regroup.
The goal is to capture authentic interactions and genuine smiles that represent your team’s unique energy.
Day-of Checklist
To ensure everything runs smoothly, here’s a checklist to review before your session:
- Outfits are clean, pressed and ready.
- Hair and grooming are taken care of.
- Props and branded items are packed.
- Everyone arrives on time and ready to have fun.
Let’s Make It Unforgettable
With a little preparation and a lot of collaboration, your team branding session will be a success. These images will tell your story, showcase your professionalism, and reflect the personality of your business. If you have any additional questions or need help with any details, I’m just a message away.
Let’s create something incredible together!
