The Branding Session Experience from A-Z
At the risk of sharing too much information - scratch that, is there even such a thing as too much information these days?! - I am writing today to share a play by play of what happens when you book a Connecticut branding photography session with me.
First thing’s first: A branding session is a significant commitment. I know that. It’s a commitment of your time. Of your energy. Of your dollars. And you’re already juggling all the things. I know this, and that is why I first and foremost want you to know that it will be WELL worth it.
So, let’s say you’ve reviewed my website, I’ve replied to your inquiry email, and maybe we’ve had a discovery call to chat - and you’ve pulled the trigger to say “Kate! Let’s do it!” Here’s what happens next.
Before the Session: Strategic Planning
Confirmation paperwork is sent and signed
Once you pull that proverbial trigger and we take a moment to celebrate (yes, it’s true, this small business owner does a little dance every time you book!) I send along your agreement and invoice. Your paid deposit and signature on the agreement are needed for the session to be officially on the calendar and for all the planning to begin.
Branding Questionnaire is sent for completing
The first step in the strategic planning for the session is the branding questionnaire. This is a form I send your way with questions about you, your business and your goals. The information you share here is really helpful in laying a strong foundation for a successful branding session.
You receive a Branding Prep Guide
Very early in the process, you’ll receive a branding prep guide. This brief guide covers items to consider when planning your session - everything from props to bring along, to hair and makeup artists to consider, and more.
Schedule our branding prep zoom
The branding prep meeting, usually done over Zoom, is a great way to get all of your questions answered ahead of the session and go over ALLLL the things, including wardrobe options, the finalizing of location(s), what props to bring, and what the shot list of the session will include. I love this part because it’s where all the ideas start to solidify into a real plan for our session day.
Planning guide is prepared and sent
The final step before the session is that I prepare a planning guide for you. This guide acts as a step by step guide to the day, including your shot list, planned props, a timeline, and contact information (for me, for you, and for our locations).
ALL of this happens before the session takes place.
At the Session
Let’s talk about the session itself. The planning guide will serve as our itinerary for the day, and as a way to keep us accountable and on track for being where we need to be and when, and for capturing those must-have shots.
I know there’s a high probability that you will be a bit nervous. Getting in front of the camera by yourself - without a kid, friend, or partner to cozy up to - can be super intimidating. This is exactly why I myself make it a practice to do my own branding sessions as often as possible. I know just how you feel. And while it’s hard to imagine…we are going to have SO much fun. There is something liberating about getting out of your comfort zone and doing something different. In fact, I think doing things that make us uncomfortable is one of the key ways we grow and build confidence. And - call me vapid if you wish - there’s something SO fun about getting all dolled up on a weekday. Just lean in and I know you - and your business - won’t regret it.
After the Session
After the session, I’ll get to work on culling your images which is “photographer speak” for selecting the top images and weeding out the ones that belong on the cutting room floor. I’ll then edit a few sneak peeks to share with you - either via text or social media or both! Then, within 2-4 weeks, you’ll receive your preview gallery from which you can select your favorites or choose to upgrade and receive the entire gallery.
Should you struggle with how to implement your images into your marketing strategy after you have received your gallery - please reach out. I have a number of options from a simple post-session strategy call to a full service Branding Discovery VIP Day, which gives you a (written) content jumpstart done for you in 48 hours. I want to support you in achieving your marketing and branding goals - even when the session is done. After all, having a library of images does you no good if you aren’t using them! I’d be happy to show you how, if you need that.
Do you have any more questions about the Connecticut branding session experience with me? I’d be happy to answer them! Contact me HERE to schedule a no-pressure chat about whether a branding session is right for you.