Branding Session Prep Guide

I’m so excited to work with you.

This session is more than just updated photos — it’s a collaboration to tell the story of your work, your energy, and the essence of your brand in a way that feels intentional, elevated, and true to you.

This guide will walk you through how to prepare, what to expect, and how we’ll bring your vision to life.

Mindset

You don’t need to “perform” or be overly posed — your authenticity is what makes these photos magnetic. I’ll offer gentle direction when needed, but most of our time together will feel relaxed and intuitive. Think movement, mood, and moments that reflect your natural rhythm.

The more present and at ease you feel, the more honest and powerful your imagery will be.

Wardrobe & Styling Guidance

Styling plays a key role in shaping the mood of your session. Here's how to approach it:

  • Choose 1–2 outfits that feel aligned with your brand tone and personal energy. These should feel like you, just a bit more elevated.

  • Think texture, layers, and movement — materials like linen, silk, structured cottons, or minimal tailoring photograph beautifully.

  • Avoid logos, loud patterns, and neon colors. Soft neutrals, muted earth tones, and timeless palettes look especially beautiful on both film and digital.

  • Don’t forget accessories or meaningful objects (notebooks, tools, flowers, fabric, etc.) that help tell your story.

  • A Few Key Styling Notes:

    • Please avoid wearing Apple Watches or visible smartwatches

    • Skip bright nail polish, long, overly ornate nails, and heavy statement accessories — they can be distracting and take away from your story

    • Stick to minimal jewelry that feels intentional

    • Avoid bulky items in your pockets (phones, keys, etc.)

💬 Want to bring more than 2 looks?
We can absolutely add time to accommodate outfit changes. Additional looks require more coverage and flow better with a longer session.

Moodboard Collaboration

You’ll receive a link to a shared Pinterest moodboard, where we’ll collect inspiration together. This helps align our creative direction and gives me a visual sense of your story.

You’re welcome to pin:

  • Styling inspiration (outfits, color palette, textures)

  • Poses or expressions that feel natural to you

  • Location aesthetics

  • Brand tone and energy

  • Optional props or product layout ideas

This is a creative collaboration — not a shot list. We'll use the board as a loose guide to stay connected to your overall vibe.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sounds like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest.

Location Planning

We’ll choose a location that complements your brand — whether that’s outdoors, a rented space, or your own studio.

Your Space

If your home, studio, or workspace aligns with your brand, it can be a meaningful and personal setting. That said, natural light is essential — ideally large windows, soft indirect sunlight, and neutral-toned surroundings. Since I shoot film, which is especially sensitive to light, a bright space can completely elevate your final gallery.

If your space is dark, shadowed, or doesn’t reflect your desired mood, I’ll help find an alternative or suggest ways to prep it for the best results.

Outdoor Sessions

Golden hour is ideal — the light is soft, flattering, and cinematic. It brings warmth and depth to your images that can’t be replicated, making everything feel more romantic and editorial.

We’ll work together to choose a location that enhances your brand’s story — whether that’s something natural, urban, minimal, or curated.

If you're working with a hair and makeup artist, please allow plenty of time for prep, travel, and touch-ups. It’s essential that you arrive at least 20 minutes early to the session location so we’re not rushing. We'll use that time to settle in, go over final details, and ease into the creative flow.

We won’t be diving in right away — the first part of the session is about getting grounded, comfortable, and connected so that everything feels natural and relaxed once we begin shooting.Studio Rentals

If you're drawn to a more editorial or clean aesthetic, we can book a local studio to bring that vision to life. Most often, we’ll be renting studio space in Charlotte, based on the look you're going for and studio availability.

Please note that studio rentals and travel are additional costs and will be factored into your final session plan. I’ll guide you through a few curated options that align with your brand’s mood and aesthetic so we can find the perfect fit together.

Film + Digital

I shoot with a combination of 35mm and 120 film, as well as digital. Film brings depth, richness, and an editorial elegance — while digital gives us flexibility and coverage.

What you’ll receive:

  • A curated selection of the strongest images (I don’t cap delivery)

  • A mix of film + digital, professionally edited

  • A private, easy-to-use online gallery with high-res + web-ready downloads

  • Turnaround: approx. 2–3 weeks

Let’s Make Something Beautiful

I can’t wait to create intentional, story-driven visuals that elevate your brand.
Feel free to reach out anytime leading up to your session — I’m here to make this a seamless, beautiful experience.

xo,
Suzy