How to Choose the Right Branding Photographer for You ~ Vancouver, WA

There are a LOT of photographers out there. If you drop a “I’m looking for a photographer” in any local social media group you’re bound to get AT LEAST 100 comments with recommendations. I’m here to help you figure out how to narrow it down and find the BEST branding photographer FOR YOU*.

(*The “best” for someone else, is not necessarily going to be the right fit for you, too!)

For business branding photography, there are two standard things that you should always consider right off the bat. First, you want to make sure that you understand what you’re getting in a photographer’s package (number of images, retouching, turnaround time, licensing/usage rights, any additional fees). Second you want to find a photographer who specializes in branding as they will understand brand storytelling, knows how to capture images strategically for websites, social media, and marketing materials, and can guide you on shot lists and brand messaging.

After those two boxes are checked, you want to go a little deeper in your search and get a little more specific about what you need from a photographer to find the perfect match. Here are four things to consider when you’re searching for YOUR branding photographer!

1. Style & Aesthetic Alignment

You always, always, ALWAYS want to review a photographer’s portfolio before you book them for your own session. You’ll want to make sure that their photography “eye” and editing style matches the vibe that you want for your brand. If your branding is poised and clean with bright, vibrant colors you do not want to book in with a photographer whose portfolio shows consistent muted tones, strong shadows, and lots of lifestyle-type images, they may not be the best match for you. The WORST thing you can do is hire a photographer whose portfolio does not match the look you are going for, ask them to adjust their shooting/editing style, and then be upset when you don’t like the images. Every business has a way of doing things, and that “way” is what makes each one of us unique!

2. Ability to Direct & Make You Comfortable

Brand photography sessions can often be a little uncomfortable. Most people aren’t usually excited about getting their photo taken and can get a little nervous being in front of the camera. This is why it’s important to find a photographer who you feel comfortable with BEFORE your session even starts! A good branding knows can help you feel relaxed during your session, while also coaching natural expressions and directing you into confident posing.

3. Planning Support (Strategy, Location, Wardrobe)

Pre-planning for your branding photography session is KEY. Both for making sure that you get the images that you want and need, and also to help with your comfort on the day of. Look for a branding photographer who offers pre-session planning support—things like consultation calls, wardrobe guidance, location suggestions, and mood boards. Everyone should be on the same page prior to the session even starting, and a good branding photographer will facilitate that for you!

4. Professionalism & Communication

I am a Type A person who is BIG on communication. I need service providers who are professional and communicate clearly throughout their organization, contracts, and payment systems. These are SO important to me that I often choose providers based heavily on how they interact with me during the inquiry stage of the process. If this is important to you as well, pay attention to how quickly each photographer responds, how clearly they explain their process, and how organized they are. Smooth, solid communication is a strong indicator of how the overall experience will feel and how easily the process will flow!