How to Pick the Perfect Outfit for Your Personal Branding Photoshoot

You’ve spent months planning and working hard to build up your business – now it’s finally time for the fun stuff! 

You’re prepping for a magical photoshoot so you can show off your posing skills and attract your soulmate clients through powerful images. 

Confidence is key when it comes to taking fantastic photos! 

The best way to feel confident on camera is to love the way you look. I’ve taken thousands of pictures and let me tell you – I know what works on camera and what doesn’t. 

When your outfit’s got you feeling some type of way, everything changes. Your energy, your mood, your confidence – through the roof. And that’s what makes for a stunning branding photoshoot. 

Like putting on your favorite pair of stilettos and instantly feeling confident AF. Something about it makes you feel like the badass bitch that you are.

So, what do you wear to your personal branding photoshoot so you can look and feel as confident on camera?

That’s exactly what I’m going to share today. But before we get into what to wear for your upcoming photo shoot, let’s first look at what NOT to wear. 

What NOT to Wear for Your Personal Branding Photoshoot

A personal branding photo session isn’t just any photo shoot. A lot more goes into it. More planning. More intentional thought about your brand messaging. 

It’s deeper than the average photography session. You have to be intentional about how you want to come across through your images.  

With that said, here are 4 DON’TS for your personal branding photoshoot:

🙅‍♀️ DON’T…

1️. Choose Anything Uncomfortable 

Trust me, you’ll regret the fact that you ever owned that itchy sweater or too tight skirt when you’re at your branding photoshoot. 

Imagine constantly shifting around because you went with that sweater that makes you scratch every few seconds. 

Not fun. 

2️. Wear Horizontal Stripes 

They’re typically not flattering on camera for any body type, so try to stay away from horizontal stripes. If you want to go with stripes, try vertical instead.

Vertical stripes are an overall better look for every beautiful body type. 

They’re also slightly less distracting than horizontal stripes.    

3️. Wear Too Much (Or Bulky) Jewelry

Accessories are a fun way to add a little pizazz to your look but don’t get carried away.

Too much jewelry can end up distracting from your radiant face, which is exactly what you don’t want.

You want your personality to shine through your photos, so do your best to avoid anything that might detract from you.

4️. Wear Colors That Clash With Your Brand Colors

Remember, these photos are likely going on your website and any marketing materials you have. 

So, if you choose to wear a bright yellow top, but your brand colors are pink and white – they will clash, and people will notice. 

Keep this in mind when choosing your outfit colors. 

Now that you have 4 DON’TS for what to wear in a photoshoot, let’s move on to branding photoshoot outfits you should consider wearing during your upcoming session. 

What You SHOULD Wear for Your Personal Branding Photoshoot

Deciding what to wear can be tough. You want outfits that are flattering, comfy, and show who you are – easy, right? 

The million-dollar question is: How do you want to come across in your photos?

Here are a couple of things to consider when deciding how you want to come across: 

• How do you want to portray your personality to attract the attention of your potential clients? (feminine, chic, professional, free, mompreneur, tough chick, etc.)
• What are your brand colors? (so you can choose options that complement them deliciously)
• What type of lifestyle do your clients envy? (working at the beach, spending time with kids, coffee chats, etc.)
• What do you look like when you chat with clients? (in person or in a Zoom call)

Once you’ve answered these questions, it’s time to pick out outfits that help you radiate on camera!

🙆‍♀️ DO:

1. Bring Outfits You Feel Most Comfortable In

If you can move freely and feel comfortable, your photos will reflect that. The camera doesn’t lie – if you’re comfortable with what you’re wearing, it’ll show. 

Everyone’s different. Some people feel most comfortable in heels. Other people feel most comfortable in flats. Some in pants, and some in dresses. 

You know yourself best, so use your best judgment. 

Here are some ideas: 

• Comfy sweaters
• Loungewear (if you work from home)
• Tennis shoes
• Jeans

This is your photoshoot for your brand – so you get to choose what feels right for YOU. 

2. Accessorize the Right Way

Accessories can add so much flair to a photo… if they’re done the right way. 

But the right balance of your favorite accessories is key. 

Bring items that complement your overall looks in the best way possible. 

Here are some ideas: 

• Earrings 
• Belts 
• Hats
• Scarves

Don’t be afraid to bring options so you can have some fun!

3.   Bring Multiple Looks

You’re going to be using these photos for years to come (unless you plan to do branding photoshoots regularly). 

So bring different looks you can envision yourself using on your Instagram, website, or other branding materials.

Get the most out of your branding photoshoot by strategically selecting your outfits. And don’t forget to pack clothes for all the different seasons of the year too. 

Here are some ideas: 

• Warm jackets
• Leggings
• Flowy dresses
• Turtleneck sweatshirts
• Summer shorts

It may feel silly to wear a turtleneck during an August branding photoshoot, but trust me you’ll thank yourself later!

4. Be Bold With Your Look

Don’t be afraid to pick something that makes you stand out. 

If it fits your personality, it’s okay to pick pieces that are a little bit more sassy and fun. 

Remember, these pictures are how your clients will see you and your brand, so if it feels right – go sassy… sexy… or simple. 

Here are some ideas: 

• Leather pants
• Bikinis
• Cocktail dress
• Sexy jumpsuit

Once you’ve found the perfect outfits and need to know how to prepare for your upcoming branding photoshoot, here are some tips.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Branding photoshoots are so. much. fun. And the more fun you have, the more authentic your images will come out. 

So, don’t take yourself too seriously. 

Smile big and show your stunning personality as much as you can. Trust me, if you do this, you’re going to be obsessed with the results!

If you want more outfit examples and styling tips PLUS your own personal tips from San Diego top stylist Vanessa Valiente – get your copy of my style guide: 10 Must-Try Looks to Radiate on Camera.