When it comes to creating a successful personal branding shoot, there are several elements that need to come together harmoniously to create the best result: location, props, outfits, and of course energy! Today I want to focus on outfit selection, which for many people can be the most daunting part of prepping for a brand photo shoot. After all, how you dress speaks volumes about who you are and how people perceive you. It’s important to ensure you’re sending the right message while still showing up authentically to connect with your ideal audience.

Selecting the right outfits not only plays a significant role in the visual aspect of your shoot, but will also boost your confidence when you first step in front of the camera on the big day. And confidence is key when you need to show up with your best energy, right?

So if you’re currently planning for a brand shoot and don’t know where to start when it comes to clothing, here are a few things to consider. These are questions I regularly put to my clients and the answers will help determine how you want to dress:

1. Who do you want to connect with through your images? (Who is your audience?)
2. How would you describe your brand personality?
3. What message do you want to convey about yourself and your work?

For example, if your target audience consists of primary school teachers or work-from-home moms, a more relaxed outfit such as a pair of jeans with a casual blazer would be appropriate. On the other hand, if you’re looking to attract corporate CEOs or individuals with disposable income for luxury items, a smart suit or designer labels may be a better fit.

Let’s look at three examples of this in action. From left to right below:

Azi Akhavipour, founder and owner of A’Object – her outfit reflects a high-end, luxury, designer vibe, which speaks to her audience.

Simone Kaplan, teen and adult counselor – her outfit reflects a friendly, relaxed, grounded vibe, which helps build trust with her audience.

Meg Durham, wellbeing expert who works with teachers – her outfit reflects a casual yet professional vibe which helps position her in the right way to her audience.

Once you have a clear understanding of how you want to dress, you can start brainstorming individual outfits. Here are two important ways to approach this, which will help you narrow down your choices:

Option One: Consider the Scenarios

Think about the different scenarios you want to create with your outfits. For example:

• What would you wear when working with a client?
• What would you wear when working from your home or office?
• What would you wear when presenting a workshop or giving a keynote on stage?

Let’s look at two examples of this:

Interior designer and stylist Sophie Kost (below) worked with Nicole Vine to pull together outfits that reflect her personality and message. The images below show her as the relaxed, creative, professional, and relatable business owner she is. They also show her in different scenarios – with a client, relaxing at home, at the office.

Similarly, real estate agent Liz Todd (below) chose a variety of outfits from smart suits to casual dresses that present her as professional, experienced, relaxed and feminine. They also build trust by giving people a glimpse of her behind the scenes – at an open for inspection, meeting a client at the office, and her more relaxed weekend vibe.

Another approach is to explore a variety of colors and styles:

• Colours: Determine which colours suit you best and align with your brand palette.
• Styles: Consider different outfit options that add variety while still maintaining authenticity. You could try pants, jeans, skirts, jumpsuits, yoga pants, or even an evening dress.

When faced with a challenge in life it often helps to break it down into manageable steps, and clothing choices for shoots is no different. I hope these suggestions make it easier for you to make confident decisions for your next brand shoot!

Remember, your personal branding shoot is an opportunity to showcase the best version of yourself while resonating with your target audience. So take your time, have fun with the process, and let your unique personality shine through in every outfit you choose.

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Need some authentic images tailored to your brand? Get in touch and let’s chat about how we can create some stunning new images that will engage and inspire your audience.

Or if you’d love to build a powerful brand, show up more consistently online and build a successful business doing what you love, you can also check out my monthly membership where I’m helping an inspiring community of women in business do exactly that.

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