Taylor Johnson Photography

Choosing what to wear for your branding photo session can feel like a big decision — and it should! Your outfit plays a huge role in how your personality, values, and professionalism come through on camera. Whether you’re a creative, a service provider, or a small business owner, the right wardrobe helps you show up confidently and connect with your audience.

Clients always end up adding some new outfits after a little shopping spree but sometimes your budget doesn’t allow for that and I like to help meet my clients where they’re at. If all we have to do is pop in to your closet to find the perfect outfit, it saves you time AND money. Imagine thinking you had to buy a whole new wardrobe for your session? I did and I spent over $500 on my outfits when I could have just chosen some items from my closet. Having a fresh eye on your current wardrobe can keep you from spending unnecessarily if you think you have nothing to wear. I promise, you definitely do!

I’ve had clients show up with as little as three outfits and I’ve had clients show up with suitcases of clothes and shoes. It all depends on what your business is, the locations we shoot at and the vibe you’re going for.

Here are 8 simple but powerful tips to help you choose the perfect outfits for your branding photos — plus links to deeper resources to help you prepare.

Shirts with your Logo

Wearing your logo is one of the easiest and most powerful ways to visually reinforce your brand. It creates recognition, builds trust, and strengthens one of your most important brand assets. In fact, it now takes an average of 12 touch points before someone remembers your business — and visual repetition helps you get there faster. (Check out Hubspot’s posts on 22 touchpoints you can include to help connect with your clients.)

If you have a few shirts with your logo in different colors or fits, bring them all. We can rotate through looks that still feel cohesive, especially if you want to use the images across different platforms. (Need ideas for how to use them? Check out these 7 ways to use your branding photos.)

Neutrals

Neutral tones like tan, ivory, cream, and beige are classic for a reason — they work just about anywhere. Especially if we’re shooting in a busier environment like a downtown street or a colorful studio, neutrals keep the focus on you. They’re also easy to dress up with layers, jewelry, or pops of color.

If you’re unsure where to shoot, my Top 11 Branding Photo Spots can help you find the perfect backdrop for your neutral style.

Color

Don’t be afraid of bold, bright color! If your brand palette includes vibrant tones, this is the perfect place to show them off. Color reflects confidence and can spark instant emotional connection with your audience.

To make sure everything flows visually, refer to your brand’s colors and bring pieces that tie into your logo, website, or marketing materials. Still developing your brand visuals? Canva’s personal branding guide is a great place to start.

Layers

Layers give you instant versatility and can help create the feel of multiple outfits from just a few base pieces. Think structured jackets, lightweight cardigans, or scarves. They also help shift your look from casual to polished in seconds.

Want to stretch one shoot into content for all four seasons? Layers are your friend. Just be sure to plan ahead if you’re trying to shoot fall looks in the summer — indoor locations work best for seasonal styling. (Need help choosing outfits for different temps? This prep timeline walks you through exactly what to do and when.)

Check out these 18 Spring Outfit ideas for your spring session! Most include multiple layers to help you make each outfit multipurpose.

Fitted Outfits

I hear this one a lot: “But I want to wear something flowy to hide my stomach.” I promise — fitted outfits photograph so much better. They define your shape, flatter your figure, and keep you from looking boxy on camera.

That doesn’t mean tight or uncomfortable. Think structured jackets, tucked blouses, and clothing that actually fits. Need help pulling pieces that work with your body? That’s part of our consultation.

Jewelry

Jewelry can take your outfit from good to polished with just a few details. Even if you don’t typically wear it, I recommend bringing at least a couple of pieces to try. You can always remove them if they don’t work!

Think about the tones in your outfits (warm or cool), and let that guide your metal choices. Bring a few options to your session and we’ll choose the pieces that complement your wardrobe and skin tone best.

Patterned Pieces

Patterns are a “yes… but thoughtfully” category. Bold prints can photograph beautifully when styled well — especially if the colors tie into your location or brand palette. If your space includes a lot of pattern or texture (like wallpaper or décor), we’ll choose clothing that complements, not competes.

I usually suggest not having patterns because they can be busy and detract away from you, however, sometimes patterns just truly compliment the subject and style of the session. As you see in the photo above of Whitney, her office is set up in calming blue tones. So her environment and dress do not clash or overwhelm each other. The pattern has colors that are present in her space. Her white pull over helps tone down the pattern just enough and creates a beautiful pop of color. Choose a pattern or two to bring because it really depends on location and your personal style.

Power Suits

Power suits are everything. They’re bold, elegant, and absolutely radiate “CEO energy.” Whether it’s a classic black blazer or a vibrant, modern suit, they tell your audience that you mean business. If you’re in a leadership role or stepping into a new level in your business, a power suit could be your branding photo secret weapon.

Need inspiration on how to pose in a power suit? Master Your Look: 4 Posing Secrets has your back.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a brand-new wardrobe to have a standout branding session. What you do need is strategy — clothing that reflects your brand, flatters your shape, and helps your audience feel like they know you already.

If you want extra help deciding what to wear or building a lookbook for your shoot, that’s included in every session with me. And if you’re just starting to think about branding photography, check out What is Personal Branding and Why It Matters — it’s a great starting place.

Are you interested in learning more about the power of branding photography for your business? Sign Up below for our blog updates!

Get some insider tips from a professional photographer on how to stand out using personal branding photography. Not only does the newsletter provide helpful tips, it will also act as a guide to using your photos for marketing purposes.

Ready to Book Your Own Session?
I’d love to help you create something truly meaningful — whether it’s for your brand, your family, or your high school senior. Just fill out the quick form below and I’ll be in touch soon!