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.

My Favorite Charlotte Indoor Shoot Locations!

Charlotte branding photographer

 

My Favorite Charlotte Indoor Shoot Locations!

It’s no secret that I’m primarily a natural light photographer and for that reason I absolutely LOVE shooting outdoors.  But now that summer is upon us and temperatures increase, particularly here in the South, it’s time to look at moving things inside.  I always recommend to any client looking to shoot during the summer months that they may want to consider an indoor location.  Not only will it help keep you cool, but we won’t have to concern ourselves with the occasional summer thunderstorm as well.  When looking for a space make sure it has great natural lighting (think lots of windows), an open feel about it and light colored walls, ceilings and furniture.  The more light the better 😉 I have had the pleasure of shooting in several beautiful locations in and around Charlotte and the list below are just a few of my favorites.  Check them out and see if it’s the right fit for your next shoot:
  • The Frame CLT – a bright, clean studio space perfect for a variety of shots
  • The Daylight Room – a new studio space opening in June! I just toured this space so ask me about it 😉
  • Loft 121 – a small studio space with a lot of bang for your buck
  • Bazemore Studio – a second level photography studio with lots of natural light

If none of these spaces fit your vision then make sure to check out Peerspace and Home Studio List.  These websites are similar to Airbnb and allow you to book a house or commercial space on an hourly basis for photoshoot purposes.  They provide great options for rental homes/spaces to look into for your next session!  If you’re booking a photoshoot between June – August and your session is over 30 minutes in length I HIGHLY recommend and indoor location…trust me, you’ll thank me later 😉

– Denise

 

New Charlotte Studio Alert!

I recently had the opportunity to visit a new studio space located in the Plaza Midwood district of Charlotte, NC.  The space is called The Daylight Room and for good reason!  The natural light that pours into the space is perfect for a wide variety of studio sessions.  The space has minimalistic decor and a neutral aesthetic which means YOU, the client can truly shine.  The studio features a dressing room, a wide variety of stools and backdrops, a white desk and accompanying yellow chair, a plethora of plants, mirror, beige couch, coffee table, faux fireplace and black and white arm chairs.  And best of all the space can be arranged to your liking so no two shoots have to look exactly the same.  The location is in walking distance to many restaurants and coffee shops making it perfect to treat yourself after your session has ended!

Charlotte has so many great shooting locations and I truly feel that The Daylight Room is a great addition to the already existing studio spaces available.  Now that summer is quickly approaching and temperatures are rising having an indoor location for your next branding session is a MUST!  Keep cool while also creating some great content is a win win situation!  To see more footage of this space hop on over to my Instagram account at instagram.com/denisebensonphotography and view my Reels to see some BTS video from my recent tour of The Daylight Room.  And while the videos and photos are beautiful, I promise you that it doesn’t do the space justice! It’s absolutely stunning in person!

The Daylight Room will officially open its doors in mid-June and if you’d like to capture your next branding session in this space then I’d love the opportunity to chat with you.  Contact me today at [email protected] to discuss rates and availability.

CATEGORIES

Based In

CHARLOTTE METRO AREA

803.526.7880

CHARLOTTE PERSONAL BRANDING PHOTOGRAPHY

small logo

CONNECT