6 Tips To Consider When Hiring a Professional Photographer For Your Business

Client Spotlight - Kay Chesterfield - Upholstery, Oakland Ca

Are you a successful business woman, but maybe you struggle with photography, maybe you're trying to take business photos yourself? If so, then this is the article for you! It's no secret that investing in a good photographer is worth every penny. If you look at the big companies out there—the ones that are killing it—they all have a distinct brand image and they pull it off with professional photography. If you're serious about your business and want to take it to the next level, then professional photography can help you do that. It's not just about looking good, either—it's about showing off your brand personality and telling a story about what makes your business unique. Below are 6 tips to consider when hiring a professional photographer for business photo shoot.

Have a vision for your ideal imagery 

The ideal product and team photo should capture the essence of your business while also showing off your product. It can be hard to find a photographer who can do both well. I've helped get many businesses looking their sharpest with my unique, efficient style. I take a no-nonsense approach that focuses on getting the best possible photos in the least amount of time, so you'll be able to get back to work as quickly as possible. When you hire me, your business isn't just important because you're paying my fee—you're important because I care about what you're doing and want to help you get the best shots of it possible. I know how much time and effort goes into starting your own business, and I want to help you get it off on the right foot. My services are for everyone from those who are just starting out to those who have been in business for decades, so don't worry if this is your first venture into taking pictures for yourself or if you're worried about how dated some of your old photos might look—I can help. For every type of business there's a different balance between showing off your product and also showing off what makes your business unique.

Jujubes biscuit lollipop jelly bonbon cotton candy. Icing toffee liquorice biscuit pudding cake bear claw chocolate bar.

The best time to photograph your business is during business hours 

The best time of day to photograph your business is in natural daylight hours. When those harsh midday or afternoon bright lights are gone, you can get some lovely lighting and still have plenty of time left in the day with your workers around to get some great shots of them as well. The best time for photographing your team is at 3:00 pm when the sun is starting to set (sunset time will vary depending on location). The best time for photographing your products is in late morning into the early afternoon when the sun is just hitting its stride and lighting up your products nicely without making them appear flat or over-exposed. 

The Photo Shoot

Lighting matters 

 A good photographer knows how to light a product so that it pops off the page or screen; knows how to make a subject look their best; and knows when it's okay to break the rules about what makes a good photo in order to get a shot with more impact (like using flash). A good photographer will also know how to take pictures of people who aren't models, celebrities, or self-assured business owners who know what they're doing in front of the camera—in other words, most people. They can make people feel comfortable, whether they're posing behind the counter at your newest shop or interacting with customers at an outdoor festival. They'll be able to capture candid moments that bring your products and services to life, like a bookseller petting her cat while reading her favorite author's new release while waiting for customers—or an employee standing behind the jewelry case straightening the display. 

Capture moments 

I love the funny, unplanned moments that happen during a photo session. The quirky expressions, the little jabs at each other, and all of the natural reactions that one gets from people when they are comfortable in their own environment. I want to show the clients who are business owners that those behind the scenes moments are just as important as those posed for photos. I want to be able to take the photos of them doing what they do every day, being themselves while they work. I want my clients to feel comfortable enough with me to be themselves in front of my camera and not have to focus on making sure each pose looks just right.

Who is your audience? 

 The best way to know your audience is to understand what they want and what will excite them. You can't just take a picture of a bunch of random things, throw it on Facebook, and expect people to buy whatever you're selling. You have to be strategic. You have to think about what your audience wants from you and then give it to them in the most exciting way possible. If they're looking for beauty products, show them how beautiful your products are. If they're looking for a great new cookbook, show them how delicious the recipes are. If they're looking for a way to make their business run more efficiently, show them how easy it is with your product.

Invest in a professional 

 Here's the bottom line: if you're running a business and you only have one chance to make a first impression, then don't waste it by sending a customer an amateur photo. When your most memorable offering is a poorly lit shot of a disinterested salesperson, that's not the kind of feedback you want to be sending to your clients. In other words, do yourself (and your company) a favor and hire a professional photographer who knows what they're doing. It can only pay off in the long run. I have included some images below from a branding session with one of my San Francisco business clients. She is a fantastic jewelry designer who wanted some unique photography to showcase her beautiful designs. Below you will see that I delivered a well rounded gallery of images she can use for several of her marketing efforts. We have worked together for several years now to level up her sales and marketing efforts.  

If you would like to discuss leveling up your company look and brand through some artistic and strategic photography sessions, please contact me. I am located in Tiburon CA, but I travel (for an additional fee) and would love to work with you, wherever you are located.