Hard Truths I’d Tell You as a Brand Photographer if I Wasn’t Afraid of Hurting Your Feelings

Here’s the thing, I don’t want to hurt your feelings but I do want you to get the most out of your shoot. I want you to show up feeling your most confident, proud and prepared self so that your final images really reflect that. So here’s some hard truths that you need to hear, said with love always.

About your photographer

Trish is a brand photographer, creative storyteller, and proud dog mum who helps small business owners show up with clarity, confidence, and calm.

She’s passionate about capturing imagery that feels like you, real, relaxed, and rooted in purpose.

When she’s not behind the lens, you’ll find her in the garden tending to her veggies, sipping cacao, or enjoying something wholesome and grounding

Investing in your brand is not a luxury.

It’s an act of commitment - to yourself, your work and your growth. Not only do you need to commit to actually booking your brand shoot, you need to invest time in the planing stage if you want to get photos you’re absolutely obsessed with. A great shoot isn’t about just showing up on the day and hoping for the best. It’s about knowing why you’re showing up and what you’re going to do when you get there. That means working with your photographer to plan your shoot, thinking about your outfits, your props and your poses. If you want premium results, you have to invest time, not just money.

I can’t make you look happy if you don’t feel it.

Your energy sets the tone for your photos. Ground yourself, breathe and bring the version of you your clients love the most.

Location matters

If you want great photos, invest in a good location. Light and space matter - even the best photographers can’t create magic in a setting that’s not fit for purpose. Think carefully about your location, ensure that it reflects your brand and who you are. There’s no point having a shoot in an office if you do all of your work outdoors or on a yoga mat as it won’t speak to your ideal clients. If you’re struggling to think of a good location for your upcoming shoot, take a look at my location guide here.

Visibility online is important

You can’t build a brand if you never show your face. People connect with people and if you’re only ever sharing faceless images and examples of your work, it will be harder for your dream clients to relate to you, which makes your marketing so much harder. Visibility isn’t vanity, it’s strategy.

If you’re trying to get the cheapest option, especially for something as visible as your brand, you’re subconsciously telling yourself:

“I don’t fully believe I’m worth more yet.”

Hard truth: you’ll never feel 100% ready. Confidence comes from doing, not waiting.