Having a professional photographer work with you is an opportunity to showcase what your business embodies and the significant people behind it. Scheduling a corporate photo session is an investment in a powerful image that will be the face of your brand. In this article, you can find seven tips on how to lead your staff through the process so that everyone involved has a constructive experience.
1. Communicate the Purpose and Vision Early
You could have a short meeting or send everyone an email specifying if those images are for professional headshots or a new marketing campaign. Always remember that a tone of high-energy creativity versus a serious professional isn’t lost on anyone once they know the context. You want your staff to be mentally prepared for the camera, so share this information with them in advance.
2. Coordinate a Cohesive but Individual Look
While you want your team to look like a unified group, it is important that everyone still feels like themselves in the clothes they choose to wear. Provide general guidelines on the dress code, such as ‘smart professional’, while encouraging people to choose colours that flatter their skin tone. It is best to avoid busy patterns or large logos that might distract from the person’s face or become outdated.
4. Schedule the Session for Minimum Stress
A busy workday can make it difficult for people to switch gears and focus on a photo session. Aim to book the photographer during a time when there are no major deadlines or high-pressure meetings that might leave your team feeling distracted. Allowing for small breaks and a bit of buffer time ensures the session doesn’t feel rushed, which helps the photographer maintain a high standard of quality.
5. Prepare the Physical Environment in Advance
Ensure that the office or studio space is tidied up, with any cluttered desks or unsightly cables hidden away from view before the photographer arrives. If you are taking lifestyle shots of people working, make sure the backgrounds are professional but authentic to your actual work environment. Having the space ready allows the professional photographer to focus on lighting and composition.
6. Encourage a Relaxed and Positive Mindset
Consider playing some upbeat music in the background or providing light refreshments to keep the mood social and fun. Encourage colleagues to cheer each other on and offer positive feedback during the session to help boost everyone’s self-esteem. When the atmosphere is friendly, the photographer can capture genuine smiles and relaxed postures that look much better than forced or stiff poses.
7. Focus on Grooming and Small Details
The camera can pick up tiny details that we might miss in person, so encouraging a bit of attention to grooming can make a difference. You might suggest that team members bring a small touch-up kit with items like a comb or a lint roller for their clothing. Checking for stray hairs or wrinkled shirts just before the camera fires ensures that the final images require less editing and look professional right away.
Bringing Your Team’s Story to Life
The faces behind your business are your most valuable asset, and professional imagery is the best way to let the world see the talent you have. By following these tips, you are setting the stage for a collection of images that will serve your marketing needs for a very long time. Taking the time to prepare correctly is the best way to ensure your next session with a professional photographer is a resounding success.
