5 Mistakes People Make Before Their Branding Session (And How to Avoid Them)
When it comes to planning your branding photo session, there’s a lot to think about — outfits, locations, confidence (or lack of it), and how on earth you’ll know what to do in front of the camera.
There are a few simple things that can make a world of difference to how you feel before (and during) your session — and how much you love the final result.
Here are the 5 most common mistakes I see before a branding session — and how you can easily avoid them.
1. Overthinking the Outfits
It’s tempting to bring your entire wardrobe and agonise over every top, shoe, and earring — but you really don’t need a suitcase full of options.
Instead, choose 2–3 outfits that:
Make you feel comfortable and confident
Reflect your brand colours and vibe
Suit where you’ll be using the images (website, LinkedIn, socials)
Tip: Layers, textures, and simple accessories are your friends. If in doubt, bring one extra option and I’ll help you choose on the day.
2. Trying to Pose “Perfectly”
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to know how to pose. That’s my job.
Some of the best photos happen in the in-between moments — the genuine laugh, the quiet confidence, the movement and interaction.
Tip: Think of it less like a photo shoot and more like a conversation. I’ll guide you every step of the way so you feel relaxed and natural — no stiff or awkward poses here.
3. Not Preparing Your Space
If your session is taking place at your home or office, the space will be part of your story. A beautifully lit corner, a tidy desk, or a few personal touches can make your images feel real and inviting.
Tip: Declutter the visible areas, hide cords and cables, and bring in a few things that represent you — a laptop, coffee mug, plant, or product samples work great.
4. Skipping the Strategy
A branding session without a plan is just a photoshoot. What makes it a branding session is having clarity around who you are, who you’re talking to, and what you want your images to say.
Tip: Before your shoot, spend a little time thinking about:
Where you’ll be using your images (LinkedIn? Website? Media kits?)
What you want people to feel when they see them
The story your visuals should tell
This makes all the difference when it comes to creating images that actually work for your business.
5. Waiting Until You Feel “Ready”
Spoiler alert: you might never feel ready. Most people don’t. But the magic happens when you show up anyway.
Time and time again, I’ve seen clients walk in nervously and walk out with a gallery of images that reflect exactly who they are — often in ways they hadn’t seen before.
Tip: If you’re waiting for the “right time,” it might already be here. You don’t need to have it all together — you just need to be you.
Final Thoughts
A branding session isn’t just about your business — it’s about you. Your presence, your energy, your story.
If you’ve been thinking about updating your images or showing up more confidently in your brand, I’d love to help.
I currently have a few session spots open — if you’d like to chat about what a shoot might look like for you, get in touch here.
You deserve to be seen — exactly as you are.
(Photos from my social media content session with the amazing Alison Callan. Alison empowers people to authentically and passionately live lives they love and deserve with Clarity and Purpose through Mindfulness, Coaching and Conscious Creation)