Why Your Brand Photos Should Start with a Feeling

You know how, at the start of the year, some people pick a “word of the year” to guide their mindset? Words like *clarity*, *connection*, or *courage*.

It might sound a little woo, but I love the idea of intentionally naming what you want to feel and focus on. Because once you name it—you start to *live it.*

But let’s not think about a whole year right now.
Let’s zoom in on something a little more immediate:
**Your next branding session.**

Setting the Tone for Your Brand Photos

When most of my clients start planning their session, they’re thinking about logistics.
Where are we shooting?
What should I wear?
Do I need to bring props?

All great questions (and yes, we’ll cover those!).
But one of the *most important things*—and one that often gets overlooked—is this:

How do you want your photos to feel?

Why This One Question Matters

Your audience isn’t just looking at your outfit or your logo.
They’re reading the energy in your expression.
They’re connecting with the vibe you’re putting out.

So when we get clear on how you want your brand to *feel*, everything else starts to align.
Your outfits make more sense.
Your expressions become more natural.
The storytelling becomes seamless.

This small shift in thinking can completely change your experience in front of the camera—*and* the results you walk away with.

Let’s say you’re a wellness coach who wants to build trust and a sense of calm with your clients.
We might go for cozy, neutral-toned looks, warm lighting, and relaxed lifestyle shots that feel grounded and peaceful.

Or maybe you’re a bold, high-energy creative ready to take your business to the next level.
We’ll lean into vibrant colors, confident poses, and images that exude leadership and charisma.

It all starts with **naming the vibe.**

What Does This Look Like in Practice?

I had a recent client tell me she wanted her photos to feel *“capable and kind.”*
That phrase completely shaped our session.
From her wardrobe choices to the gentle way she interacted with her tools and space, that intention anchored every image we created.

Another client said she wanted her brand to feel *“like a warm invitation.”*
We built in soft movement, natural props, and candid moments that welcomed her audience right into her world.

Your Pre-Session Homework

So, if you’ve got a session on the calendar—or even just dreaming of one—here’s a little assignment:

**Pick a word. A vibe. A story.**

What do you want your audience to *feel* when they see your photos?
What part of your personality or business are you ready to show off?

You don’t have to have it all figured out (that’s what I’m here for!), but even five intentional minutes spent thinking about this can change the entire tone of your session.

It’s Not About Being a “Natural”

You don’t need to be a pro in front of the camera.
You don’t need 10 different poses or the perfect outfit.

You just need one thing:
A sense of what you want your photos to *say.*

From there?
I’ll help bring it to life—with expert guidance, encouragement, and images that feel beautifully, unapologetically *you.*

Ready to plan your next brand shoot with purpose? Download my free Planning Guide to help set your intentions.

Ready to jump in?  Let’s book a discovery call and start mapping out your visual story.