How to Become a Branding Photographer | Branding Photography Education

I am so excited to talk about how YOU, yes YOU can become a Branding Photographer, too! Over the past few months, I’ve had multiple photographers reach out to see if I offered mentorship because they want to learn more about branding photography and how to make an addition or change to their own businesses by offering it! So, without further ado, I am going to share 4 ways how to be a brand photographer, too.

Do Some Research

Branding Photography is a unique niche, to say the least, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. Ever since I’ve made the change from wedding to branding photography, I’ve experienced so much growth and a new sense of joy and creativity! Before making the complete switch, I did a lot of research! From google searches to education I found on Instagram, I was constantly learning the importance of building a brand and how photography can help that. There is a unique perspective that a lot of people don’t know; branding photography is more than just headshots. As a photographer, you have to be willing to dig deep into your client’s brands and plan ways to tell their story through photography!

Find Photographers to Shadow

Like learning any niche of photography, having a photographer or two to shadow is so important. It’s a great way to learn how experienced brand photographers work and how they shoot a session from start to finish. Brand Photography is still new to many markets and communities, so if you can’t find one locally, you can always start with virtual mentorship! I offer that, so be sure to reach out if you’re interested in learning about One on One Mentorship for Brand Photography.

• 

• 

• 

Practice, Practice, Practice

They say that practice makes perfect, right? Well, when you’re trying a new niche and focus on a different kind of subject, practice really will help you become more confident in what you’re doing! Ask your friends, ask your significant others, ask your co-workers, anyone! Practice photographing individuals and helping them bring out their own personalities!

Plan a few Beta clients

Along with a lot of practice, I highly encourage you to find a few beta clients that you can work with! If you’re new to the concept of a beta client, I’ll fill you in! A beta client is a person who resembles your ideal client and they’re willing to let you photograph them and practice what you’ve learned for a discounted rate. Yes, they still will need to pay and you need to be willing to ask them to pay. After all, you’re working and they are getting photographs in return! And a tip for finding a beta client, when planning their session, try new ideas! Find what will set you apart from the other brand photographers in your immediate market!

Here are a few resources for you as you learn about branding photography and How to be a Brand Photographer if that interest you!

Literature: Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller, The Brand Photography Playbook by Mallika Malhotra

Alright, that’s all for now! If you’ve read this and you’ve learned something new, comment below and share with me! And if you’d like to How to be a Brand Photographer, I’d love to chat with you! Click here to book your coffee chat about mentorship!! xoxo, Madalyn