Visual storytelling is a long-established way of building connections and understanding through empathy and imagination. When a story resonates with us, we tend to think about it long after we’ve consumed it, and we want to talk about it. We even pass it on to our friends and family.
Think about the last time you finished a great book or discovered a jaw-dropping series on Netflix. How many people did you tell about the experience? Did you leave a review on your favorite streaming platform?
The same thing is possible with your brand because your brand story is not just your founding history or the bio on your website. The story of your brand can be told and shared through brand photography on your website, on your social media, and in other marketing materials
What Is Brand Photography?
Brand photography tells the story of your brand with a variety of planned images that include:
- Lifestyle photos: images that capture you in authentic poses with natural backdrops.
- Environmental portraits: showcase you in your work environment or with your clients.
- On-brand stock photos: supporting images that align with your interests, brandmessage, and colours.
- Behind-the-scenes photography: candid images of you doing what you do best.
The combinations of these images allow you to tell the story of who you are, what it’s like to work with you, and what your personality is like. You can use these images on your website and in your marketing campaigns to spark connections with your audience. When your photos reflect who you are, your interests, and your values, you’ll inspire an emotional response in the right clients.
What Is Visual Storytelling?
We’ve all heard the saying that an image is worth a thousand words. But what are those words? Visual storytelling is how you convey your brand message and personality through your brand photography. A professional brand photographer can help you create and tell that story through carefully planned images.
How to Capture Your Story and Plan Ahead!
In order to capture your story during your branding photography session, it’s important to plan in advance what you want to include. I recommend creating a mood board by using Pinterest to capture ideal settings, clothing, poses, and anything that inspires you and aligns with how you want to be represented.
Next, I recommend working with a professional photographer who specializes in brand photos. I always approach a brand photo shoot with a strategy in mind that helps me capture the images you need to tell your story.
You can use my Photoshoot Prep Checklist to help you get organized and prepare for your next photography session. When you book a brand photo session with me, you’ll also receive a more detailed checklist that ensures we cover every pre-planning detail so you can relax and enjoy yourself on the day.
Three Elements of Visual Storytelling
Pick Your Location
The location of your photoshoot is very important in the story you want to tell about your business. You can feature your physical business location in your photos to showcase what your business setting is like, or you can find a location that represents the vibe of your business.
Add a Prop
Props add a bit of your everyday life into your photos, adding to the story of your profession, your passions, or your interests. Props can show the unique tools you use in business. Here are a few examples:
- Real Estate Agent → Keys, Sold Sign
- Artist → Paintbrush, Palette
- Trades Person → Toolbelt
- Lifestyle Coach → Books, Notebook, Compass
Your props can further support your brand if they feature your logo or brand colours. You can also add props to demonstrate your interests and passions, such as books, instruments, a camera, a bike, knitting needles, or crystals.
Choose Your Pose
Posing is another way to tell your story. Your expression and the way you pose will influence how your audience feels about you. Do you want them to feel confident in your strength and knowledge, or do you want them to feel welcome and comfortable being vulnerable around you? With my expertise, I can help you find the right poses for you.
Your Brand Photographer in Calgary
If you’re ready to tell your story with powerful brand photographs, book your free consultation with me—your brand photographer in Calgary. I love working with heart-centred entrepreneurs who want to stand out and make a big impact in the world.
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