Photographs have been on my mind lately. First of all, on holiday where I along with the other happy snappers took many pics and this week trawling through the archives to find a very old modelling photo for a memorial service of an early mentor of mine.
There’s been many years in between but as a business professional, I have regularly updated my photographs along with other communication assets. And suggest you do too.
As a businessperson, you’d be aware that the first impression you make is generally online and to display a strong personal brand it helps to use eye-catching visual images. You may just need one brilliant set of photos for all your communication collateral including business cards and social media.
You could follow-on your personal brand “look” by having a selection of outfits with a particular colour theme that you wear when on stage presenting or on-camera being interviewed.
I often work with businesswoman on elevating their image and one consultation was with a real estate professional. She was feeling a bit flat due to often working from home and her objective was to look more confident and stand out in a competitive environment. Our starting point with her revived image was to help her look different and feel great with new brand photos.
For my client, it didn’t take a lot to have her look better and feel confident. It was just about understanding her style personality, the colours that suited her; she really wanted to avoid black and white; and selecting styles that suited her body shape. We also updated her hairstyle and eyewear.
These photo styling tips will help you to stand out with more confidence and be distinct through what you wear.
1. Know your personal brand image. If you’ve been reading my blogs and newsletters for a while you will know I talk about understanding your innate personal brand. Once you work out your brand attributes, the words to describe your brand, and your brand statement; you can then design the visual elements of the brand.
Whether your personal brand is leading edge, creative, healthy lifestyle or corporate, there is a look and style you can project that will reflect your brand personality.
2. Create your vision board. Now you know your brand elements, time to collect images that appeal to you. Your vision board in this instance is your “look book”. Choose fashion magazines, lifestyle or business publications where there are photos of people reflecting the look you want to create. Let these inspire you.
You may also notice certain colours and shapes coming through. For instance you may be drawn to bold, geometric prints or soft, lacey ruffles or lighter coloured suits as opposed to all black. These styles will form part of your brand image.
3. Research shopping outlets where you may be able to purchase one or two of these items or “shop your wardrobe” for similar styles. You may find these items to update your look in retail shops or online. Write out your list of what you need for your photo shoot or on-camera appearance and a budget of what you can invest.
4. Go shopping. Ideally you will have items in your wardrobe that you like, look great and you feel comfortable wearing, as these items you will feel relaxed when updating photos. You may only need a new shirt or a different coloured jacket or a great statement necklace. What you wear on camera will be seen online for a long time, so choose wisely.
5. Styling. Put your complete outfits together with shoes and accessories and try everything on. Make sure you love your look and it supports your brand. When you do appear in front of the camera have everything ironed and in top shape, meaning no loose buttons or threads and the clothes have been altered to fit you properly if need be.
6. Style your image by taking a selection of tear sheets (cut out or online images) to your photo shoot so you can work with a photographer to create the look you are wanting. Ideally, beforehand, discuss with the photographer the look you are after and arrange any props or backgrounds that may enhance the visuals.
If you are making an on-air appearance be mindful of the back ground so you don’t blend in and take a change of outfit that will contrast with the backdrop or green screen.
7. The finished product will look polished if you arrange to have your hair styled and make-up done by professionals. Again, take along a photo of the way you like your hair and make-up done so it isn’t too out of context.
Most importantly – smile for the camera and let us see the real you.
As my lovely client summarised, “My confidence levels have improved with the style changes and the results from the photo shoot were very pleasing.”
Learn more about spotlight confidence and my Stylish Business Woman program, when you sign up for my free eBook, The Secret to Your Personal Brand Revolution. Get Your Free eBook Now!
Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
