When you think about someone’s brand, the first image that comes to mind is probably a picture of the product, business or person that you viewed while scrolling through social media or saw plastered on a billboard. That’s because brand photography is everything when it comes to making a strong impression with your audience. Once you’ve settled on what you want your brand to say, the next best step is to capture your brand identity with high-quality photography.
Brand photography builds brand recognition. Every image is an advertisement for what you’re selling, so taking time to think about the content you’re generating and sharing is of the utmost importance. Here’s why brand photography is so important when you’re thinking about how to build a brand.
Brand Photography Is Like A First Date
Every time someone interacts with an image you’ve curated, you want to make sure it’s a “meet cute” instead of a hard pass. Your brand identity is tied up in how your audience perceives you, much like making first impressions on a date. When you go on a first date, you probably dress up a little: brush your teeth, style your hair, put on some mascara and wear nice shoes. You still look like you, but you’re presenting as the best version of yourself. That’s what you want your brand to do every time someone interacts with a photo.
Understandably, it’s easy to take pictures with your iPhone. That being said, personal phone photos just don’t cut it for brand photography. It’s the equivalent of getting your hair done for a date and then showing up in pajamas. Using low-quality cameras doesn’t paint your brand in the best light. Put in the extra effort for best results.
Brand Photography Builds Brand Recognition + Identity
One of the most important components in building a brand is consistency. Working with an actual photographer—or at least using professional equipment and lighting—will create a more cohesive image for your brand. You want your target audience to start to recognize your brand every time it pops up. That means that the background, lighting, color scheme and general aesthetic should flow seamlessly from photo to photo. There’s an art to this kind of photography. Let someone who’s trained help you out.
Brand Photography Will Help You Take Yourself Seriously
If you’re just starting to build your business from the ground up, it can be difficult to see all of your brand’s potential. You may make excuses about how you’ll build your brand’s image over time. Brand photography helps you take your business seriously right away. It gives legitimacy to all of your hard work. You’ll be proud to show others what you’ve created, and may even attract donors or sponsors more easily from the launch.
Brand Photography Tips
Now that you understand the importance of brand photography, here are a few suggestions to help you build brand identity.
Use A Well Lit Space:
From mood to clarity, lighting influences everything about brand photography. Consider what the lighting you use says about your brand. You probably don’t want a shadowy, moody appeal if you’re selling summer dresses. Use natural light and a reflector or a substantial lighting kit for your photos.
Hire Professionals:
If you’re not a photographer, hire a professional photographer. Professional photographers have the experience and know-how to make your brand look incredible. Depending on what you’re branding, you may also want to hire professional actors or models to promote your product. Even if you think you can do it yourself, models understand angles and how to work with photographers to get the best shot.
Use Color As A Focal Point:
You want what you’re selling to be the focal point of your photos. You can pull attention to different parts of the photo using leading lines and color to draw your audience’s eyes right where you want them.
Great brand photography makes you look professional, trustworthy and interesting. It can set you apart from others, to create brand recognition. Utilizing creative photography professionals will help you get the best shots and may even help your audience see your brand through a new lens.
Need help with Digital Marketing? Here at McMillan & Phillips we have a team of experts to make all your brand growth a reality. Reach out today and let’s start optimizing your website and ultimately, your brand!
