Dress for Success (and Your Brand!): What to Wear for Your Maryland Business Photography Session
You're a team of accomplished female attorneys, dedicated to your clients and your profession. When it comes to your branding photography – those powerful images that represent you online and in your marketing materials – what you wear speaks volumes. As a Maryland business photographer, I've had the pleasure of working with many incredible small business teams, and I understand how important it is to convey both professionalism and approachability to help new clients feel trust and comfortability with you before you even meet. Let's dive into what to consider when choosing your attire for your Baltimore branding photoshoot.
Thanks to the Howard County Courthouse for allowing us to take photos in their lobby for this Columbia law firm.
Looking at this fantastic photo of the team, you can easily see some key elements done right! The coordinated yet individual styles create a sense of unity and approachability. Here are some guidelines to help other businesses achieve a similar impactful look:
1. Understand Your Brand Identity:
What Message Do You Want to Send? Are you aiming for a traditional, authoritative feel, or something more modern and approachable? Your clothing choices should align with your firm's values and the impression you want to make on potential clients.
Consider Your Target Audience: Who are you trying to reach? A more conservative clientele might expect a more formal look, while a younger, tech-savvy audience might appreciate a slightly more relaxed approach.
Reflect Your Personality (as a Team): While professionalism is key, let your team's individual personalities shine through in subtle ways. This helps create a more relatable and authentic brand image.
2. Coordination, Not Uniformity:
Create a Cohesive Look: Aim for a color palette that works well together. Think complementary colors or different shades within the same color family (as seen in the photo with the grays, creams, and black, with pops of brighter colors as well).
Allow for Individual Style: While coordination is important, avoid making everyone look like they're wearing a uniform. Allowing for individual choices in silhouettes, necklines, and subtle accessories adds personality.
Consider the Setting: If your photoshoot will have different backdrops (e.g., office, outdoor locations), think about how your clothing choices will look in each setting.
3. Professional Yet Approachable Fabrics and Styles:
Opt for Quality Fabrics: Well-fitting garments in quality fabrics like wool blends, silk, linen (for warmer months), and structured knits tend to photograph well and convey professionalism.
Consider Classic Silhouettes: Timeless pieces like tailored blouses, business casual dresses, blazers, and suit separates are always a safe bet for professional branding photos.
Pay Attention to Details: Proper tailoring for your outfit pieces can indicate how you go the extra mile in professionalism!
4. Color Psychology:
Think About the Impact of Color: Different colors can evoke different emotions.
Blue: Often conveys trust, stability, and professionalism (as seen prominently in the photo).
Gray: Can represent sophistication, neutrality, and balance.
Black: Exudes power, elegance, and authority.
White/Cream: Can suggest cleanliness, approachability, and openness.
Consider Accent Colors: Pops of color in accessories or individual garments can add personality and visual interest. I love how this team had pops of bright pink and blue in their group.
5. Details Matter: Accessories and Grooming:
Keep Accessories Polished and Professional: Opt for classic jewelry, watches, and scarves that complement your outfits without being distracting.
Pay Attention to Grooming: Ensure everyone has neat hair, professional makeup (if desired), and clean, well-maintained nails. These details contribute to an overall polished look.
Consider Eyewear: If team members regularly wear glasses, have them wear them for at least some of the photos to reflect their authentic professional appearance. Ensure the lenses are clean to avoid smudges appearing.
6. Plan and Communicate with Your Photographer:
Discuss Wardrobe in Advance: I’m always here to help. Feel free to email me any outfit options if you’re unsure. The most important thing is to be yourself - whatever you feel confident and comfortable in will do that!
For an All-Female Attorney Team (Like the Wonderful Group in the Photo):
Empowerment and Confidence: Your clothing should reflect the strength and confidence of your team. Well-tailored pieces in strong colors (like the blues and blacks seen) can be very effective.
Approachability and Trust: While conveying authority is important, remember to also project approachability and build trust. Softer blouses, thoughtful accessories, and genuine smiles (as seen in the photos!) help achieve this balance.
Consistency in Professionalism: Ensure a consistent level of professionalism across the team's attire to present a unified front.
Your branding photos are an investment in your firm's image. By carefully considering what you wear, you can create powerful visuals that communicate your expertise, build trust, and attract the right clients. Take inspiration from this fantastic team and plan your attire with intention!
Are you a Maryland or Baltimore-based business looking to boost your brand with professional photography? I'd love to help you tell your story through impactful images! Contact me today to chat about your branding & and headshot session :)
