Elevado Photography | Luxury Branding Photography for Women Professionals & Entrepreneurs

Milwaukee Branding Photography | Elevate your visual presence

1. Start With Your Brand Identity, instead of Your Closet

Before you even look at your wardrobe, ask yourself:

• What message am I trying to send?
• What do I want people to feel when they land on my website or see me on social media?
• What words describe my brand? (e.g., bold, polished, warm, high-end, creative)

If your brand leans modern and sleek, neutrals and clean silhouettes are your friend. If you're all about personality and color, then this is your moment to shine. The goal is to dress how you want your audience to perceive you—which might not be your usual go-to outfit, and that’s okay.

2. Choose a Color Palette (and Stick to It)

Pick 2–4 colors that coordinate well together and match your brand aesthetic. This doesn’t mean everything has to be monochrome—but you don’t want clashing tones in every photo, either.

Pro tips:

• If your brand colors are bold (like red, cobalt, or emerald), include them in accessories, lipstick, or a blazer, not necessarily your full outfit.
• Neutrals (white, cream, black, tan, olive, and denim) photograph beautifully and keep things clean. (PS: These are the MOST popular colors clients wear at their sessions as well. Neutrals always hit the mark!)

3. Aim for 2–3 Looks, Minimum

The time it takes for outfit changes is always included in your session time! I always recommend bringing multiple outfits to your branding session, because this is a fantastic opportunity to maximize the content you use in your business by creating lots of variety in your shots! Here’s a sample lineup:

• Look 1: Your Everyday CEO Look

Think polished but approachable—what you’d wear to meet a dream client for coffee.

• Look 2: Content Creation Mode

Slightly more casual, maybe jeans or a midi skirt, layered jewelry, a soft tee or sweater, barefoot or casual shoes. This helps your audience connect with the real you.

• Look 3: Elevated / Editorial

Think statement blouse, jacket, jumpsuit, or dramatic blazer—something high-impact that brings attention in a scroll.

Don’t forget to bring options: outerwear, jewelry, different shoes, and accessories can change the entire vibe without needing a full wardrobe change.

4. Know What Flatters You—and What Doesn’t

This isn’t about hiding your body—it’s about honoring your shape and feeling like your best self. That means:

• Avoid ultra-tight or overly loose clothing (structured always photographs better)
• Test outfits ahead of time in a mirror or by taking a selfie
• If you're self-conscious about certain areas, use layers, cuts, and styling tricks that work with your body, not against it

If you’re not sure what flatters you most, ask your photographer (👋 hi!)—they’ll help you style based on what looks best on camera.

5. Accessorize, But Don’t Overdo It

Jewelry, scarves, glasses, watches, and even props (like a laptop or coffee cup) can add personality to your shoot—but too many accessories can distract from your face and expression. Choose intentional, high-quality pieces that align with your brand vibe.

6. Plan Hair + Makeup with the Camera in Mind

A branding shoot isn’t the day to go bare-faced or try a totally new makeup look, which is why professional makeup will always be included when you book a session with our Milwaukee branding studio.

Whether you DIY or hire a pro (which I highly recommend!), make sure your makeup enhances your features, smooths skin tone, and works with the lighting. Same goes for hair—freshly styled, with a little volume and shape, is ideal.

💡 Bonus: If your photographer includes professional makeup as part of your session (like I do!), you’re already set up for success.

7. Don’t Forget the Details

Here’s a quick checklist of things people forget but make a big difference:

• Iron or steam your clothes ahead of time
• Bring lint rollers, safety pins, and double-sided fashion tape
• Have backup shoes (especially if shooting outdoors)
• Stay hydrated the day before and get a good night’s sleep (yes, it shows!)

Styling Shouldn't Be Stressful

The most important thing to remember? You don’t need to become someone else to look polished in your branding photos. You just need to show up as yourself, dialed up a notch and styled with intention.

And if you’re ever unsure, I’m here to help. From pre-session consults to wardrobe guidance, I walk you through the entire process to make sure you feel confident every step of the way.

Need help planning your wardrobe for an upcoming session?

Let’s chat! I’ll help you align your clothing choices with your brand so you can walk into your session feeling prepared, polished, and 100% in your zone.