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.
