When you’re building your business, the last thing that might pop into your mind is photography. Why would it even be an afterthought? Well, professional photography can dramatically change how people see your business or you as a professional.
Both business and personal image are important. Research shows that 77% of consumers are likelier to make a purchase if the business owner is active on social media, and photography plays a part in that. Humans are naturally visual creatures. You want to play with that aspect when it comes to boosting your image. (1)
Not sure where to begin? Then, keep reading this article as we’ll help you choose the right corporate photographer, plan your photo shoot, and maximize the impact of your images.
Power of Corporate Photography
A reputable business has a great corporate image, and corporate photographers understand this completely. But they not only know how to create striking images. They can also help you build a consistent look and feel for your brand, making your business look credible and reliable. In addition, professional photos tell your brand story and connect with your target audience on a deeper level, allowing you to gain these people’s trust.
Don’t set aside videos, either! A professional photographer makes a great partner and a quality event videographer is also a must. Your business events deserve Video Production services to be recorded in high-quality 4K videos. They’re fantastic marketing and branding tools you can post on social media, and they’re quite effective! Social media apps offer the most return on investment (ROI) for marketing videos, accounting for 67%. (2)
Your personal brand is equally important. High-quality corporate headshots are great for this purpose. Why? They mean business as such images convey expertise and authority, not to mention they help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Choosing the Right Corporate Photographer
Not all corporate photographers may offer the services you seek. So, it’s a must to browse your available options and choose one adept at business photography. Here’s how to get the right candidate:
Defining Your Corporate Photography Needs
So, what exactly do you want to achieve with your photos? Are you building a new website or revamping your social media? Or maybe you need professional headshots for your team. Figure out what you’re aiming for first. That’ll help you see what kind of photos you need.
Moreover, think about the overall feel you want to convey—is it modern and sleek, or classic and timeless? Your ideal customer matters here, too. What kind of images would resonate with them?
Researching Potential Photographers
Now, it’s time to find a photographer who understands your vision! Look for someone whose work you love. Check out their work. Does their style match your brand? Also, read what their clients say about them, so remember to check online reviews.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to chat. Ask them about their experience, how they approach their work, and if they’ve worked on similar projects. Discuss your budget, timeline, and expectations, too. Most importantly, see if you click. A good working relationship with responsive communications is key to a successful photo shoot.
Photographer’s Professional Standards and Association Affiliations
Like all professional sectors, photographers vary in their commitment to excellence. Some operate independently, providing basic services, while others strive for continuous improvement in their craft. A progressive corporate photographer stays informed about the latest industry trends and regulations by actively participating in business associations and local chambers. If they offer services at business events in Sydney or across Australia, inquire if they are members of the Business Events Association of Australia (ABEA). For those providing services in Sydney, check if they belong to the CBD Sydney Business Chamber.
Regardless of their location, professional corporate photographers being connected to business communities should be a part of your decision making information.
Planning Your Photo Shoot
Like traditional marketing plans, your photo shoot should also have its own outline. Even with professional corporate photographers by your side, they won’t work without a plan.
Prepare your photo shoot by following these steps:
Setting Clear Goals and Objectives
Before the corporate photographers start snapping away, decide what you want to accomplish. What kind of photos do you need to boost your business or personal image? How many? What’s the overall mood or story you want to tell? A shot list can help you and your photographer stay focused.
Choosing the Right Location
Your location sets the scene. Choose a place that reflects the image you want to portray and consider the lighting, background, and overall atmosphere. Indoors or outdoors? Both have advantages.
A location scout can be a valuable asset, especially for larger productions. They know where to find the perfect spot based on your specific needs. Plus, they can handle logistics like permits, saving you time and hassle.
Once you’ve finalized the location and chosen a corporate event photography service, make sure the place is well-lit and spacious enough for the photographer’s additional equipment, such as tripods and light stands.
Preparing for the Shoot
A mood board can be a helpful visual tool you and your photographer can refer to. It’s a collection of images that represent the style and atmosphere you want to achieve. Sharing this with your photographer helps ensure everyone is on the same page.
Your corporate photographers will also gather everything they need, including equipment and, sometimes, extra clothing for the big day.
As for you, make sure everyone involved knows what to expect and is equally prepared. And most important of all, wear your best professional outfits without overdressing. Your clothes don’t have to be new, but they should be clean and crisp. Nine studies revealed that people perceive others wearing ‘richer-looking’ clothing as more intelligent and competent. (3)
Maximizing the Impact of Your Corporate Photos
After your photo shoot, you should now have some excellent shots showcasing your business or personal image. Great! But what’s next? You should put them to good use, of course. You can do that through the following methods:
Using Images in Marketing Materials
Your photos are valuable assets, so make them work for you. Put them on your website, brochures, and other marketing materials to reel in new clients. You can also create eye-catching social media posts with these images. Then, you can bump up your email marketing with them, too—a great image can make your emails stand out.
Consider creating different versions of your photos for various platforms. Vertical images and a square crop work well for Instagram stories and posts, respectively. Meanwhile, a horizontal image might be better for your website. Adapting your photos to different formats ensures maximum reach.
Building an Online Image Gallery
Why not spotlight your best photos with a gallery on your site? Make sure your images are search-engine-friendly so people can find them easily. Encourage social sharing, too, so your photos reach a wider audience.
Your photos can also shine in ads. Great images always grab attention, whether in print, online, or on big billboards.
Measuring Return on Investment
Want to know if your investment in photography is paying off? Track how your photos are performing. Are people engaging with your social media posts? Is your website traffic increasing? Compare the cost of the photo shoot to the benefits it brings your business.
To get a more accurate picture of your ROI, consider tracking specific conversions. For example, if your goal is to generate leads, see how many inquiries or sales can be attributed to your photos. This will help you determine the true value of your investment.
Wrapping Up
Investing in corporate photographers is an investment in your business or personal brand. Amazing photos can change how people see you and potentially bring in more revenue.
So, plan it out and use your photos wisely to achieve your goals. Remember, your visual image is just as important as your products or services.
References
- “Why Personal Branding Is Crucial for CEOs in Today’s World,” Source: https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/why-personal-branding-is-crucial-for-ceos-in-todays-world/468320
- “The HubSpot Blog’s 2023 Video Marketing Report [Data from 500+ Video Marketers],” Source: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/video-marketing-report
- “The Clothes That Make You Look More Intelligent,” Source: https://www.spring.org.uk/2020/05/clothes-more-intelligent.php