Brand Photoshoots 101 | Creativity, Intuition and Storytelling with Sammy Hearn

Branding

Sep 24

Welcome back to Daring Made! Today, we’re diving deep into the vibrant world of creative storytelling through brand photoshoots, where the art of visual storytelling meets the power of branding.

Our guest, Sammy Hearn, is a phenomenal creative professional whose work spans photography, videography, and education. Sammy’s creative genius has not only shaped countless brands but also inspired many to see the world of branding through a more authentic and imaginative lens.

If you're looking to elevate your brand through photography, this post is packed with brand photoshoot tips that will help you capture your brand's essence and tell your story in the most captivating way possible.

Embracing the Power of Creativity in Brand Photoshoots

Creativity is the heartbeat of any successful brand. It’s what makes your brand photos pop and your audience stop scrolling. Sammy’s journey into the creative world is a testament to the transformative power of creativity in branding.

“All I wanted to do was just play, dress up, play pretend. So that's always kind of been a core part of my creativity. I walked into a newsroom for an extracurricular class when I was in college, and it was kind of all over from there. I immediately pivoted entirely to journalism, and I worked in the newspaper industry here in Nashville for a while. I covered courts, federal courts.” - Sammy said.

From her early days in theater and journalism to her current role as a creative entrepreneur, Sammy has always been driven by a desire to tell stories. Her background in theater gave her an eye for drama and emotion, while her experience in journalism instilled in her the importance of accuracy and narrative.

These skills converge beautifully in her photography, where every shot is not just an image but a story waiting to be told.

“So it was this combination of the inner theater kid in me and then the hard storytelling news journalist who wants the facts, wants, you know, everything in order. And then this creative, you know, photography side of me that really just came from me playing around.”

The Art of Creative Storytelling in Brand Photography

When it comes to brand photography, it’s not just about capturing a moment—it’s about telling a story.

Creative storytelling in brand photos goes beyond the surface, connecting with your audience on a deeper, emotional level. This is where Sammy’s work truly shines.

“Creativity is so like, it's such an authentic thing, and I think that is what magnetizes people more than like a stock photo. You know what I mean? It’s subconscious if that makes sense.”

In today’s visually driven world, anyone can take a picture. What sets your brand apart is the story your photos tell. It’s about capturing the essence of your brand in a way that resonates with your audience.

Whether it’s the warmth of a cozy coffee shop or the excitement of a product launch, the goal is to evoke emotion and create a connection.

Sammy’s approach to brand photos is rooted in authenticity and emotion. She believes that the best photos are the ones that tell a story and reflect the true essence of a brand.

This involves more than just taking a pretty picture; it’s about capturing the mood, the vibe, and the personality of your brand in a way that feels real and relatable.

Bringing Out Emotion in Your Brand Photos

One of the most powerful aspects of brand photos is their ability to evoke emotion. A great brand photo doesn’t just show what your product looks like; it shows how it makes people feel.

Whether it’s joy, excitement, comfort, or curiosity, the emotions captured in your brand photos are what will draw people in and make them want to learn more about your brand.

“It's just about getting in the flow, you know, and I think that helps us as female, you know, entrepreneurs and business owners too. Anytime we can, even if it's just for ten minutes, get in that state of 'I'm letting the creativity flow.' And if there's nothing creative coming out, then that's okay. I'm gonna let that, I'm gonna let nothing flow, and that's okay. I think that just makes us stronger when we do go into work mode, you know.”

Allowing yourself to get into the creative flow is essential for capturing authentic and emotionally resonant brand photos. It’s about letting go of perfectionism and embracing the process, even if it means experimenting with different angles, lighting, or settings.

The key is to create a space where creativity can thrive, whether you're shooting in a professional studio or your backyard.

Brand Photoshoot Tips: From Concept to Camera

Now that we’ve explored the importance of creativity and storytelling in brand photography, let’s dive into some brand photoshoot tips that will help you bring your vision to life.

Define Your Brand Story: Before you start planning your photoshoot, take some time to define your brand story. What is the message you want to convey? What emotions do you want to evoke? Understanding the narrative behind your brand will help you create images that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
Plan Your Shoot: Preproduction is key to a successful brand photoshoot. This includes everything from choosing the right location to planning your outfits and props. Sammy emphasizes the importance of having a detailed plan and clear deliverables.
“When working with clients, Sammy emphasizes the necessity of proper preproduction, inclusive of a detailed plan, deliverables, and meeting deadlines.”
Use Props Thoughtfully: Props can add depth and context to your photos, but they should be used thoughtfully. Choose props that complement your brand’s story and aesthetic, rather than distract from it. Whether it’s a vintage typewriter for a writer’s brand or fresh flowers for a lifestyle blogger, the right props can help bring your brand story to life.
Play with Light and Angles: Lighting and angles can make or break a photo. Natural light is often the most flattering, so try to schedule your shoot during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset. Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering perspective for your subject and setting.
Capture Authentic Moments: Some of the best brand photos are those that capture authentic, candid moments. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your photos. Whether it’s a spontaneous laugh or a thoughtful glance, these moments of authenticity are what will resonate most with your audience.
Edit with Intention: Post-production is just as important as the photoshoot itself. Editing should enhance your photos, not overpower them. Use editing tools to adjust lighting, color balance, and contrast, but keep the overall look and feel consistent with your brand’s aesthetic.

Creative Storytelling: Elevating Your Brand with Visual Narratives

At the heart of every successful brand photoshoot is creative storytelling.

It’s about more than just taking pictures—it’s about crafting a visual narrative that resonates with your audience and reflects your brand’s identity.

For example, if you’re a wellness coach, your brand photos should convey a sense of calm, balance, and inspiration. This might involve shooting in serene outdoor locations, using soft, natural lighting, and incorporating elements of nature into your photos.

The goal is to create a visual story that aligns with your brand’s message and values.

Similarly, if you’re a fashion brand, your photos should reflect your unique style and aesthetic.

This might mean shooting in a trendy urban setting, using bold colors and dramatic lighting, and showcasing your products in a way that highlights their design and quality.

Creative storytelling in brand photography is about finding the unique angle that sets your brand apart. It’s about capturing the essence of your brand in a way that is authentic, relatable, and visually compelling.

The Role of Authenticity in Creative Storytelling

In today’s digital world, authenticity is more important than ever. Consumers are bombarded with images and messages every day, and they can quickly spot when something feels inauthentic or forced.

That’s why it’s so important to stay true to your brand’s identity and values in your photography.

The most successful brands are those that embrace their uniqueness and aren’t afraid to show it.

Whether it’s a quirky sense of humor, a deep commitment to sustainability, or a passion for innovation, your brand’s unique qualities should shine through in every photo.

“Speaking about stirring emotions in business branding, it is essential to be authentic and step into a vision that resonates with your true self. The magic of creativity lies in its ability to be vulnerably authentic, powerfully impactful, and distinctively recognizable.”

Conclusion: Elevate Your Brand with Creative Storytelling

Brand photoshoots are more than just a marketing tool—they’re an opportunity to tell your brand’s story in a way that resonates with your audience and sets you apart from the competition.

By embracing creative storytelling and following these brand photoshoot tips, you can create images that not only capture attention but also build a deeper connection with your audience.

Whether you’re working with a professional photographer or doing a DIY shoot, remember that the most important element of your brand photos is the story they tell.

So go ahead, get creative, and let your brand’s story shine through every frame.

If you found these insights helpful, be sure to share your thoughts and experiences with us on Instagram at @sashafedunchak. We’d love to see how you’re using creative storytelling to elevate your brand!