Where can you do a personal branding shoot?

One question that comes up pretty regularly about personal branding photo shoots is where to do them. At first glance, it can be kind of tricky, especially if you work solo from home. Here some ideas to help.

At the office

The most obvious place is the office, assuming you have one. The office works well if you're in the C-suite, as the spaces tend to be dramatic. This would be the classic corner office shot in a high rise with the city skyline in the distance. Execs are busy people, so having the photos done on site saves time since they don't have to travel.

If you can't get into a fancy corner office, no worries, there are lots of other places at the office such as a lobby or entryway, or even hallways. The trick here is making sure we're not getting in the way.

But if you're not a big wig or don't have an office, where else can you do the shoot?

At home

Everyone has a place where they work, even if it's just the dining room table. That can work just as well as a fancy corporate office.

When framed correctly, even just you working at the computer can create several different photographs with slight variations. Things like looking at the screen vs. the camera, placement of your hands either in or out of frame, tighter head and shoulders portraits vs. more wide angle to include more of the room, etc. And all of those combinations can be mixed with various expressions, such as pensive, slight smile, big smile, etc.

Other options for around the home include sitting on the couch or a stuffed chair in the living room. There are also lots of options for standing locations, such as in an entryway or against a wall.

Outside

If the weather cooperates, it's also possible to take photographs outdoors.

Going back the office for a second, if the photos are for the company, shooting outside in front of company signage can be desirable. If the signage is several floors up on the outside of a large building, this can be subtle by placing the sign slightly out of focus in the background. Or if something more direct is needed, you can stand right next to signage on a door or with a sign at ground level.

Really any area outdoors can work, as long as the background isn't too distracting. One of my favorite shots was taken on a sidewalk right next to traffic, as the location had a great view of the Boston skyline to act as a backdrop.

It's also helpful to have a place to sit when shooting outdoors, as it helps generate more variety. This can be a bench, but low walls and stair cases can also work.

If you're not sure where to do a photo shoot, don't let that stop you. I can help you brainstorm some ideas that would work well. All you have to do it get in touch!