Your Branding Experience Guide

 

Welcome, I’m Nicolette

Thank you for trusting me with this special season. My goal is to create an effortless, beautifully styled experience from start to finish. This guide will help you feel confident, prepared, and excited for your session.


Team Photos: How to Prepare

If your branding session includes team or staff photos, a little planning goes a long way in creating cohesive, professional imagery.


Wardrobe Coordination

  • Choose a coordinated color palette rather than matching outfits. Neutrals with one or two brand colors photograph beautifully.

  • Avoid loud patterns, logos (unless intentional), and busy graphics.

  • Keep fabrics classic and wrinkle-free.

  • Shoes matter—ensure footwear feels polished and aligns with your brand aesthetic.


Hair & Makeup

  • Light, polished makeup and neatly styled hair photograph best.

  • If possible, we recommend scheduling professional hair & makeup for a cohesive, camera-ready look across the team.

Pro tip: Avoid trying a brand-new hairstyle or dramatic makeup look for the first time on session day. Timeless and polished always wins.


Grooming Details

  • Men: Fresh haircut 5–7 days before your session is ideal

  • Facial hair should be neatly trimmed and intentional

  • Clean, moisturized skin (but avoid heavy or greasy products on the day of your session)


Skincare & Botox Timing

If you plan to receive Botox or other injectable treatments, we strongly recommend scheduling them at least 4 weeks before your headshot session. This allows time for results to fully settle and ensures your expressions still look natural and relaxed on camera.

Avoid any new or aggressive skincare treatments (chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, etc.) within 2–3 weeks of your session to prevent redness or irritation.


Timing

  • Plan for team members to arrive on time and fully dressed, so we can move efficiently and maximize shooting time.

  • If someone will be photographed individually and in group shots, we’ll guide posing to keep everything seamless.


Preparing Your Space for Environmental Images

Environmental branding photos tell your story—your space plays a huge role in the final look and feel of your images.

Clean & Declutter

  • Clear surfaces of unnecessary items (loose papers, cords, bags, cups, clutter).

  • Tidy desks, shelves, and floors—think styled, not sterile.

  • Remove items you wouldn’t want permanently documented in your brand imagery.

Style with Intention

  • Keep a few on-brand elements visible: laptops, notebooks, branded packaging, products, plants, or decor that reflects your business.

  • Less is more—negative space helps images feel clean, modern, and elevated.

Lighting Awareness

  • Open blinds and curtains to allow natural light where possible.

  • Replace burnt-out bulbs and aim for consistent lighting temperatures throughout the space.

Final Walk-Through

Before we begin shooting, do a quick walk-through and ask yourself:

“Does this space represent how I want my brand to be seen?”

If the answer is yes—you’re ready.


Rest & Hydration

A good night’s sleep and proper hydration make a noticeable difference. Try to:

  • Drink plenty of water the day before and morning of your session

  • Avoid excess salt or alcohol 24 hours prior

  • Arrive relaxed — we’ll guide you through posing and expression every step of the way


Final Thoughts

Our goal is for you to feel confident, comfortable, and well-prepared when you walk into your session. With the right prep, your branding photos will feel effortless, elevated, and aligned with how you want to be seen professionally.

If you have any questions or would like to book hair and makeup with one of our preferred artists, we’re always happy to help.