Preparation Is the Secret to Photos You’ll Love

A successful personal branding photography session isn’t just about what happens in front of the camera—it’s everything that happens before. At WorkStory Creative, every premium branding photography session begins with a personal planning meeting designed to make the entire process effortless and strategic.

During this one-on-one video call or in-person meeting, I’ll guide you through every detail—helping you build a comprehensive shot list, plan what to wear, choose ideal Spokane or Coeur d’Alene locations, brainstorm props, and even coordinate models or professional hair and makeup. I’ll ask all the right questions—many you’ve probably never thought of—to ensure your session captures your brand’s personality and purpose beautifully.

Whether you’re a Spokane real estate agent, a CDA creative, or a coach building visibility online, this checklist will help you feel organized, confident, and camera-ready. Let’s make sure your next session results in photos you truly love.

Download a PDF version of this guide with more photo examples on our Resources page.

Step 1 – Define Your Brand Vision

Before you plan a single outfit, decide what story you’re telling.
Ask yourself:

• What do I want clients to feel when they see my photos?

• Where will these images appear (website, social, print)?

• What colors or moods represent my brand?

Create a Pinterest board or share a vision board with your photographer to ensure alignment.

Step 2 – Plan Outfits That Match Your Brand Personality

Think of each outfit as a “chapter” in your brand story: one professional, one approachable, one personal.

Check out my post on What to Wear For Your Branding Photography Session for color, fit, and accessory advice.

Pack more than you think you need — it’s better to have options on shoot day.

Step 3 – Gather Props That Tell Your Story

Props personalize your shoot and give context to your brand. Consider:

• Tools of your trade: laptop, camera, planner

• Personal touches: coffee mug, bouquet, book

• Workspace elements: desk décor, notebooks

• Symbolic items: travel map, product sample

Keep your props cohesive with your color palette and brand style.

Step 4 – Self-Care & Beauty Prep

You deserve to feel pampered and confident. Schedule:

• Hair trim or color one week prior

• Manicure/pedicure

• Hydrating facial or extra skincare

• Hair & Makeup styling for the day of your shoot (I can recommend a few trusted HMU artists)

• Plenty of rest and water

On shoot day, arrive with clean, moisturized skin and dry hair ready for styling.

Step 5 – Organize Everything the Day Before

One of the best ways you can show up as your best for your photoshoot is to avoid scrambling to find what you need or make it on time on the day of your shoot. Prep everything the day before and don't schedule other meetings or important appointments right before or after. Put the address of the photoshoot location in your calendar and double check how long it will take to get there. Leave early! Prep the following the day before:

• Steam or iron clothes - place in a garment back and hang them in your car

• Pack accessories & shoes by outfit

• Double-check prop list

• Prepare any branded items (business cards, products, signage)

• Get a full night’s sleep

Step 6 – The Day of the Shoot: Relax & Trust the Process

A skilled brand photographer will guide every pose, expression, and angle — you don’t need to worry about what to do with your hands! Just show up as prepared as possible and I'll take care of the rest!

Professional posing ensures flattering results for every body type. You’ll receive gentle direction to help you look confident, natural, and approachable.

Step 7 – After the Session: Use Your Photos Strategically

Don’t let your images sit on a hard drive!
Use them to refresh:

• Your website and social media banners

• Email signatures and business cards

• Speaker bios and press kits

• Advertising campaigns

Plan a quarterly content refresh to stay current and recognizable.

Final Thoughts

A little preparation makes a massive difference in the results of your Spokane or Coeur d’Alene branding photoshoot.

By aligning your wardrobe, props, and mindset with your brand story — and trusting your photographer to guide the process — you’ll end up with photos that feel authentic, confident, and completely you.

P.S. If you’re ready to show up with confidence and clarity, I’d love to connect. Head over to the Contact Page to send a note, schedule a video chat, or join The Inland Edit—my monthly guide to personal branding and visual storytelling.