How to Plan the Perfect Personal Branding Shoot
And Why It Matters More Than You Think
By Beatrice Siyanbola for Boslens Studios
In a world where first impressions are made online and often in milliseconds, a personal branding shoot is no longer a luxury; it is a necessity. Whether you are a bride to be starting a wedding planning blog, a model trying to land agency gigs, a creative entrepreneur building your brand, or a corporate professional levelling up your LinkedIn presence, the right images can speak volumes before you even say a word.
As someone who has worked in Corporate (in the energy industry) for over 6 years, I’ve seen how intentional photography can elevate your entire brand, build trust with your audience, and set you apart in a crowded digital space. But where do you start?
Let me walk you through how to plan a personal branding photoshoot that captures the real you in the best possible light. And you don’t have to want to be a LinkedIn influencer to benefit from a personal branding shoot.
Tomisin’s Personal Branding Shoot - She’s a HR Professional
Start With the Big Question: What Do You Want Your Brand to Say?
Before we talk lighting, outfits or props, ask yourself:
What message do I want to convey?
Are you going for elegant and refined, fun and creative, bold and fearless, or warm and approachable?
If you are a speaker hoping to land TV appearances or high profile panels, your photos should radiate credibility and charisma.
A wedding vendor? You might want visuals that communicate trust, warmth, and style. A model? Your lookbook should feel versatile and editorial ready.
Clarity is everything. Write down a few keywords that define your personality and brand message. Words like “vibrant,” “visionary,” “empowering,” or “luxury” are great prompts and should be central to every decision going forward.
Concept is Queen
Your concept is the visual story that pulls everything together. It answers the question: If your brand were a Netflix series, what would the aesthetic be?
Let’s say you are launching a bridal coaching business. A soft, romantic shoot with natural light, flowing fabrics and gentle tones might be your lane. Are you a tech entrepreneur with a flair for fashion? You might lean into clean lines, bold colour blocking, and urban architecture as your backdrop.
For brides evolving into personal brands or business owners, working with a London Luxury Wedding Photographer who understands both elegance and entrepreneurial storytelling makes all the difference.
Whatever your industry, your branding shoot should tell a story without saying a word. And do not stress if you do not have it all figured out yet. That is what the pre shoot strategy session with your photographer (like Boslens Studios) is for.
Bukiie’s Personal Branding Shoot - She’s a creator, writer, speaker and podcast host
Wardrobe Choices Matter A Lot
Your outfits should reflect your brand values and your lifestyle. If your job includes frequent speaking gigs or TV features, go for polished looks. Think tailored blazers, sophisticated dresses, and accessories that pop but do not distract.
If your brand leans toward relaxed, people centric energy, choose pieces that feel comfortable but still polished. Avoid loud prints that might date your photos quickly or draw focus away from you. Stick to timeless silhouettes, flattering cuts, and colours that reflect your brand vibe.
In this shoot I did with Bukiie, she showed up in a Fuschia pink suit and I was absolutely delighted. I simply like bright colours and hence my enthusiasm. But for her, it meant more. Bukiie is a creator, writer, speaker and podcast host who shares personal finance. So for her branding, it was important for her to look professional, but still relaxed and approachable. For her, I think a pink suit was perfect.
Pro tip: Bring at least two to three outfit changes. Think of your shoot like a campaign, not a passport photo.
Choose the Right Location or Set Design
Location is just as important as lighting. Your setting should visually echo your brand’s tone. Want to look like a globe trotting mogul? A luxury hotel lobby or minimalist co-working space can say a lot. Want something grounded and heartfelt? An outdoor shoot with natural light and floral accents may be just right.
For brides, creatives, or business owners seeking timeless portraits, choosing a London Wedding Photographer with a great understanding of lighting and location makes all the difference.
And for creatives or lifestyle professionals, do not sleep on custom set designs. A styled studio setup can be personalized to your mood board, with the right props, colour palette, and backdrop to tell your story.
Pro-tip: try to co-ordinate your location with your outfit, to minimise any clashing. I often ask my personal branding shoot clients at Boslens Studios what they are planning to wear as we discuss locations. Don’t overlook the importance of this.
Props With a Purpose
Props are not just for decoration. They are subtle storytelling tools. Holding a mic if you are a speaker, your wedding planner notebook if you are in the bridal space, a laptop and coffee for a lifestyle coach, or a camera or tools if you are a creative entrepreneur.
Make sure every prop aligns with your brand story and use them sparingly. The goal is to complement your presence, not steal the spotlight.
Communication Is Key: Talk to Your Photographer
A personal branding shoot is not just a photoshoot. It is a collaboration. Before your session, have a detailed conversation with your photographer (yes, that is us again) about your:
Brand message and visual goals
How and where you plan to use the images (LinkedIn, Instagram, Website, Media kits, or even TV campaigns)
Your ideal client or audience
Any insecurities or must haves (because you deserve to feel amazing)
The more context I have, the more strategic I can be with framing, lighting, and direction. Great branding photography is not random. It is built on trust, planning, and creative synergy.
Plan Like a Pro
Do not wait until the night before to iron your outfits or hunt down last minute accessories. A week before your shoot:
Try on every outfit
Steam and pack them carefully
Confirm your makeup and hair appointments
Review your mood board and notes
Double check props and accessories
Get a good night’s sleep. It matters
Pro tip: Bring a stylist or trusted friend to help you prep - they can be your human mirror and help save valuable time on the day. You will be glad you did.
Idu’s Personal Branding Shoot - She’s a Luxury Bridalwear Designer
Why This Matters
Your brand images are often the first thing potential clients, collaborators, or media see. Whether you are updating your LinkedIn photo, prepping for your website launch, or getting ready for a TV feature, a well planned branding shoot gives you the competitive edge.
It is not just about looking good. It is about showing up as the best version of who you already are.
At Boslens Studios, we proudly serve as a trusted London personal branding photographer for creatives, professionals, and brides turned entrepreneurs. So whether you are looking for a London luxury wedding photographer, a personal branding photographer or an event photographer, we help you show up elegant, beautifully, and authentically in every frame.
Ready to create visuals that reflect your story and make the right first impression? Send an enquiry message or e-mail to start crafting your personal brand in pictures.
Let us tell your story in clarity, colour, and confidence. 📸
Stay tuned,
Beatrice
Lead Photographer
Boslens Studios