A professional personal brand photoshoot is one of the smartest investments any entrepreneur, influencer, or small business owner can make. Great personal branding photos cement your personal brand the way nothing else can. They communicate your intent, attract your ideal audience, and help you visually portray your best self to the world. 

But in order to get all of those amazing benefits, you’ve got to have a totally successful personal brand photoshoot first. You don’t want to risk making any mistakes that undermine the power of your photos! Here’s what to make sure you DON’T do in your personal brand photoshoot.

DON’T wear a blah blazer – Your personal brand photoshoot should be just that — PERSONAL. Everything you bring, wear, and do, should be a reflection of your unique story and personality, including your wardrobe. Don’t just wear an outfit because you think it’ll make you look professional. Dress like you! Wear colors that reflect your brand. If your brand is modern and edgy, maybe you’ll wear a leather jacket and killer stilettos. If your brand is more classic and feminine, consider choosing soft colors and flowy fabrics. 

DON’T skimp on hair and makeup – Your personal brand/lifestyle photoshoot will only last about an hour or so, but the photos you get from it will last forever. Consider hiring a professional to do your hair and makeup. That way, you’ll be less stressed trying to get ready yourself and your photos will turn out even better.

DON’T come unprepared – If you’re going to have a successful personal brand/lifestyle photoshoot, you’ll have to do a lot more than just show up and look pretty. You’ll need to do some thoughtful homework. Ask yourself: what are your goals for the photoshoot? What’s the story behind your brand? What colors best represent your personal brand? What shots do you want to make sure you get? What props might help you better illustrate what you do? DON’T think there’s only one way to do things.

If you’re planning your own personal brand/lifestyle photo shoot, chances are you’ve looked at a lot of other examples for inspiration. There are so many great personal brands out there — but there’s only one you. It’s okay to look to successful brands to get some ideas, but make sure you’re staying totally true to yourself. DON’T forget to have fun with it! Get creative. Think outside the box. Be a little silly in front of the camera. The best personal brand/lifestyle photos communicate who you really are — all of your skills, charms, and quirks. So be yourself in front of the camera and make your personal brand photos your own.