How To Incorporate Props Into Your Branding Session

Charlotte branding photography

How To Incorporate Props Into Your Branding Session

 

One question I’m often asked by potential clients is what props work best for their profession.  And of course, this answer will change depending on the industry you’re in, what your day to day work life looks like and the hobbies you enjoy during your down time.  Here are a few of my thoughts regarding props and how to use them in your upcoming session.

Props can add depth and personality to your branding photoshoot, making your images more engaging and memorable. Start by considering the theme or message you want to convey, and then choose props that align with your brand’s aesthetic and values.

One popular prop for branding photoshoots is a laptop or tablet, which can convey a sense of productivity and modernity. You can also add small decorative items that complement your brand’s color scheme, such as a vase of flowers or a stack of books.

If you want to add an element of playfulness or whimsy, consider using balloons, confetti, or even a bottle of champagne to celebrate a recent win. These props can add visual interest and create a fun, lighthearted vibe that captures your brand’s personality.

 

Denise Benson photography

 

Another option is to incorporate your products or services into the photoshoot. For example, if you run a bakery, you could include a tray of freshly baked goods or a display of colorful macarons. This can help showcase your offerings and create a sense of authenticity and transparency.

Finally, consider using props to create a specific mood or atmosphere. For instance, if you want to convey a sense of relaxation or mindfulness, you could include a yoga mat, candles, or a soothing essential oil diffuser. If you want to create a sense of adventure or exploration, you could use a map, compass, or hiking boots.

Ultimately, the props you choose for your branding photoshoot should align with your brand’s identity and messaging. By incorporating thoughtful and relevant props, you can create images that capture the essence of your brand and engage your audience.

My Photography Journey

Denise Benson photography

 

My Photography Journey

 

Some of you have been here from the very start and some of you may have just found me this year.  And even if you’ve been here from the get go you likely don’t know my full photography story.  How this went from just a hobby to a full time career (one of which I never even intended on having!).  I don’t want to bore you with a ton of minute details, but thought it may be fun for you to see how things progressed over the last (almost) 12 years!

In the spring of 2009 I decided to take an Intro To Photography course at York Technical College.  It was a night class that met twice/week.  I wanted to learn how to take nice photos that could produce a “clear subject and blurry background”.  Since insurance was my 9-5, I needed a creative outlet as a hobby.  During the course of this class I bought my first DSLR camera, a Nikon D40.  For 2 years I played around, practicing on mostly inanimate objects (flowers, shoes in my closet, my mom’s Christmas tree, the beach, etc).

In April of 2011 I took my best friend and her pup to the park to capture some images, uploaded those photos to Facebook and next thing I knew…I had a budding side gig on my hands.  I immediately began receiving requests for photoshoots.  And because this wasn’t anything I expected (I just bought the camera and took the class for fun) I didn’t know how to price myself accordingly and shot everything from baby showers to little league football games.  And for family shoots…yeah…I was charging around $45 for an hour long session (we’ve come a LONG way!).

On December 7, 2012 I decided to move my work from my personal FB page to a business FB page.  I created a website and began to price myself more in line with my industry peers.  In 2014, I started up a monthly newsletter for clients so that I could share my work, current availability, etc.  That first year I had a “whopping” 67 newsletter subscribers so it blows my mind that there are over 1,000 of you following along on this journey with me now!

In February of 2017 I introduced 1:1 coaching for other photographers that wanted to learn how to create a better client experience and have come to love that part of my business more than I ever could have imagined.  It’s been such a fulfilling role for me!

Over the years I tried my hand at all sorts of photography, but eventually decided to niche down to just branding and some portraits (birthdays, seniors, maternity & bridal).  And on January 2022 I went full time. As someone that never saw myself doing this full time it’s wild to think of where I am now.

I’ve upgraded my equipment numerous times, revamped my website, had countless branding sessions for myself, and taken tons of courses (free and paid).  I’ve had really high highs (being published in magazines and working with high profile clients have made my head spin) and some really low lows (the year burnout almost took me out I knew changes needed to be made in how I ran my business).  But we’re here.  This past April I celebrated 12 years in business and if THIS is what the first 12 look like I can only imagine how amazing the next 12 will be.

Thank you for continuing on this ride with me.  I look forward to serving you as best as I can for many more years to come!

 

Where To Shoot Your Next Branding Session

Charlotte branding photography
Where To Shoot Your Next Branding Session
One of the biggest pain points for my clients when booking a branding session is figuring out the perfect location.  There are a few factors to take into consideration when scouting for a location that fits you and your brand vision that I want to go over to hopefully make your next shoot a breeze!

1. Are there a variety of backdrops?  Now I don’t mean actual studio backdrops, but are there a variety of spaces in and around the location that can be utilized.  If you’re shooting for an hour+ you want to make sure to go with a location that has a minimum of 2-3 backdrops.  So if you’re shooting in a home (rented or your own) you want there to be at least 2 spaces inside that can work (e.g. kitchen and living room) for your session as well as a possible outdoor space as well.  This will allow you to get the most bang for your buck!  Having a variety of spaces along with wardrobe changes means you’re not using the same images over and over again.  That one shoot can give you longevity when posting online.

2.  Is there outdoor space available?  While shooting indoors is great because you don’t have to worry about the temperature or weather, having a few outdoor shots with natural lighting is always a plus.  Make sure to check the surroundings of your shoot location to see if there’s an opportunity to grab a few shots outside as well.  If you want your entire session to take place outdoors then make sure you choose a location that has a variety of looks within a walking distance.  For example, if you’re shooting in Uptown Charlotte you can start your session outside of the Convention Center, then make your way to The Bechtler Museum and finally finish up at The Green.  This gives you lots of variety all within close proximity.

3.  Does the location provide good natural lighting?  Whenever my clients opt to book an indoor location one of the main tips I give them is to search for a location with good natural lighting.  While I do provide lighting sources for my indoor sessions, having a space with lots of windows and that’s bright and airy will enhance the look of your session so much more.

4.  Does it pass the vibe check?  Every location isn’t going to work for every profession.  You have to ask yourself if the location makes sense for you and your brand.  While a park filled with trees and flowers may be great for a yoga instructor the same location wouldn’t necessarily work for a lawyer.  Make sure the fits you and your brand aesthetic by choosing a space with colors that will fit seamlessly into your website, etc.
If all else fails reach out to your hired photographer.  We shoot in a variety of places and can often give you great recommendations to steer you in the right direction!

Branding Session Highlight: Charlene Jefferson

Charlotte branding photography

 

Branding Session Highlight: Charlene Jefferson

 

I’m finally back to a regular routine of blogging.  Sure, some may say that blogging is dead, but before my life became too hectic for me to keep doing it consistently it was a great way for me to showcase my sessions and introduce my audience to some of my amazing clients.  I’m happy to report that I’m officially back to sharing my clients with the world!  While I won’t be able to blog each and every session I do hope to share at least one per month and give you a little insight into the BTS (behind the scenes) of the shoot and tell you more about my client.

 

Denise Benson Photography

 

This recent session with my Echo client Charlene Jefferson was an absolute DREAM!  Insert all of the heart eye emojis here.  My Echo clients are a membership service that I offer and it allows those clients to book sessions multiple times per year at a discounted rate.  Charlene and I have worked together numerous times, but dare I say this session was our best yet!  The location, a rented home via Home Studio List, created the perfect backdrop.  The neutral tones and open and airy feel allowed Charlene to shine.  It was cozy, yet sophisticated and fit her vibe perfectly.

 

Denise Benson Photography

 

Charlene had her hair stylist on set as well to help out with any touch ups that were needed.  Having an extra person on set can make all the difference in ensuring the session runs smoothly and we stay on time.  In an hour we managed to capture three looks in 4 different spaces within the home.  The entire session flowed smoothly and Charlene came away with some DOPE images!  Charlene is a high performance coach who helps her clients unlock their power within and build the life of their dreams.  If you’d like to learn more about the services she offers make sure to visit her website at charlenejefferson.com.  She’s amazing at what she does and I’m so thankful I have the opportunity to work with her over and over again!  And if you’re ready to get in front of my lens then I’d love to hear from you.  Head on over to the contact form on my site so we can get started!

 

Denise Benson Photography

Charlotte Branding Sessions…Thus Far

Denise Benson photography

 

Charlotte Branding Sessions…Thus Far

 

2023 is my second year doing this branding photography thing full time.  2022 was the year I really focus on getting my systems in place so that things could flow as smoothly as possible, but now that I have a year and a half under my belt I feel like I’ve finally found my place.  I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many amazing clients this year in so many amazing locations!  While the studio space I was a member of, The Little Villa, has now officially closed it’s doors I’m finding more wonderful places to shoot, included The Frame Studio, client homes, city scapes and more!

 

Charlotte branding photography

 

I’ve had 2 mini sessions specials (headshots and branding) this year and my clients are giving me new and unique ideas to work with, making my job so much fun!  I always love working with repeat clients to give them fresh, updated images for their brands and I’ve been blessed that they keep coming back over and over again.  And of course, new branding clients are always a good time because I get to learn about their passions and dreams!

 

Denise Benson Photography

 

The thing about the photography business is that there’s truly never a dull moment!  No two sessions are just alike and that keeps things spicy and interesting on my end.  Just this year alone I’ve had the pleasure of working with wardrobe stylists, business coaches, realtors, lawyers, hair stylists and so, so many more!  The Charlotte and surrounding areas are filled with so much talent and I’m truly grateful for those that trust me with their branding visuals.  So far 2023 has been amazing and I’m excited to work with so many more of you before the year is over.  If you’re interested in leveling up your branding visuals then I’d love the chance to chat with you!  Contact me today at [email protected] to see if I have a package that fits your needs.

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