“What exactly happens behind the scenes at brand photography sessions?” I get this question almost weekly, usually followed by some version of “I just need a few photos” or “how long does it take?” The honest answer? Way more planning happens before we ever pick up a camera, and way more content gets created than most people expect.
Last month, I walked through a full content day with a client, and it reminded me how much strategy goes into what can look like “just taking photos.” Here’s what actually happened, start to finish!
The Real Work Happens Before the Session
Most people think a brand photography session starts when I show up with my camera. Actually, it started weeks earlier when we mapped out exactly what content this business owner needed for the next six months.
We talked through her launch calendar, speaking events, email campaigns, and social media goals. I sent her a detailed game plan covering outfit changes, locations within her space, and the specific shots we’d capture. She had time to review everything and ask questions before the session day.
Session Day: More Than Just Taking Pictures
She arrived looking polished and ready. We spent the first fifteen minutes walking through the plan one more time and adjusting based on how she felt that day.
Then we got to work. I focus heavily on variety during these content days — close-up shots, wide environmental shots, detail work with props while she changed outfits. Most importantly, I mix photo and video throughout the entire session rather than treating them as separate activities.
For example, while she put on a blazer for more formal headshots, I captured detail shots of her workspace and products. When she was between poses, I filmed B-roll footage of her hands typing or flipping through her planner. Everything serves a purpose in the final content bank.
The Strategy Behind Every Shot
Here’s what surprises most clients: we’re not just capturing what looks good in the moment. Every image gets planned for specific use cases.
That wide shot of her at her desk? Perfect for her website header and LinkedIn banner. The close-up of her laughing during our interview? Email newsletter and Instagram stories. The formal headshot series? Speaking bio, hiring announcements, and print materials.
We also created what I call “customized stock” — photos of her working that don’t show her face clearly. She can use these year-round when she needs fresh content but doesn’t want every post to be a headshot.
Video Changes Everything
Most photographers offer either photos or video. I plan both intentionally during the same session, which saves time and creates a cohesive visual library.
We filmed a short interview for her website and social media, plus dozens of short video clips she can use for Instagram Reels and stories. The video content often becomes more valuable than the photos because it’s harder to create on your own.
What You Walk Away With
By the end of our content day, she had over 50 images and multiple video files — enough material to support her marketing for months, not weeks.
More importantly, she walked away knowing exactly how to use each piece. I provide detailed guidance on where each image works best, from social media dimensions to print specifications.
The Result: Content That Actually Works
Three months later, she messaged me: “I’m still using content from our session, and people keep asking where I get all my photos.” That’s the goal — a content bank that works across every platform her business needs.
This is why I call these content days rather than photo shoots. The camera is just one tool in creating a strategic content library that supports real business goals.
Ready to see what a content day could do for your business? Let’s plan a session that gives you months of usable material instead of just a handful of pretty pictures.
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