3 Easy Tips for Hair Stylists to Nail Branded Photoshoots
It doesn't matter where you are or what your space looks like, branded photoshoots are a non-negotiable if you want to attract the right client.
I've said it once and I'll say it again:
Creating the best client experience doesn't happen from a few big things you do, it's created from all those little things you thought about that no one else does.
Go big or go home doesn't apply here.
One of the most underutilized pieces to creating an over all brand experience for your clients that is memorable is the Branded Photoshoot. This is where you can show yourself in the best light.
You know...the hands behind the hair...chair? You're picking up what I'm putting down.
Your face is your most powerful asset.
It sounds a little weird saying that, but it's true! A potential client wants to see WHO is going to be providing their service. Its what the 'Meet The Team' page on a salon's website is the second most visited page. People want to put eyes on their person.
It's why any profile picture you have on Social Media should be a close up of YOU.
When your face is the first thing someone sees, they are able to humanize you. You're a actual person, not just a social media page or business.
If you've never had a brand photoshoot, let me help you make it a breeze with 3 easy tips.
3 Easy Tips for Hair Stylists to Nail Branded Photoshoots
NUMBER 01. Find A Photographer YOU Connect With
This is literally where Instagram comes in clutch. Search for key terms like: *your city* photographer. You should have a plethora of accounts that pop up.
You'll want to click on a few different accounts and check YES on these boxes:
- Do their pictures and editing fit my style?
- Are their captions connecting with me?
- Is their website professional and consistent with their brand?
If you answer YES to all of those, then you should reach out and talk with them more about what you're looking for.
Choosing your Brand Photographer is an intimate experience. They get to pick through all of the crazy in-between shots of you with half of your eye closed or tilting your head down at the right time to capture that pesky double chin [whyyyy?!].
It goes without saying that this is a relationship that needs to have some level of trust in the beginning.
Doing your research and making an effort to find the right person will pay off. Big time.
I would know. I've only ever had 2 people do my Brand Photoshoots, and one of them has been a long time client of mine.
I'm not a fan of trading usually, but if you find a Photographer who fits the bill, then trade away!
NUMBER 02. Create A Pinterest Board
One of my favorite apps of all time, Pinterest can help you create awesome Boards for your business! I created a Branded Photoshoot Board for hairstylists if you would like to take a look and grab some ideas!
Mood boards used to consist of grabbing magazines and snipping out some pictures to glue on to something, but it's a lot less messy and more convenient to find your aesthetic.
NUMBER 03. Find A Space
If your suite or salon just doesn't fit your brand currently or the brand that you want to create, do a search online of local spots that do.
I'm not a fan of taking pictures in front of a bunch of people in a business...so Coffee Shops are a no if you're just starting out.
If you have the budget, I would suggest looking on Peerspace where they have great locations that you can rent by the hour. Ask your Photographer before you jump to Peerspace because they may have places they recommend based on your goals for the shoot.
Final Thoughts & Some Pro Tips
You'll feel less awkward each photoshoot, especially if you plan it before hand. I'm putting together a Pinterest Board that will help you along the way.
I'll also be updating it fairly frequently with new ideas while also posting my Brand Shoots too. So don't forget to give me a follow on Pinterest if you want to branch out of your comfort zone and start to level up your client experience across the board (see what I did there).
Pro Tip: Plan at least 2 Branded Photoshoots a year so you have more content to post on social media + share to your website. These visuals will help set the tone for the type of experience a new client will have if they choose to book with you.
Happy planning! See you on the next one 🥂
