Branding photography is more than just a collection of pretty pictures. It’s about storytelling – visually communicating who you are, what you do, and why you do it.
The right photos don’t just capture attention; they build trust, resonate with your audience, and strengthen your brand identity.
To tell a cohesive story, a variety of shot types is essential. Each uniquely creates a well-rounded narrative, helping your audience connect with your brand on different levels.
From wide shots that set the scene to abstract close-ups that evoke emotion, here’s how each shot type contributes to the bigger picture.
1 – Wide Shots: Setting the Stage
Wide shots are the foundation of your brand’s visual story. They capture the bigger picture – the setting, atmosphere, and context of your work.
In branding photography, wide shots might show your workspace, a bustling café where your products are displayed, or a serene outdoor location that reflects your values. These images are fantastic for establishing a mood and giving your audience a sense of place.
Why They’re Important:
-They create a visual introduction to your brand
-They help your audience understand where and how your work takes place.
-They’re perfect for website banners or social media headers.
2 – Mid-Range Shots: The Heart of the Action
Mid-range shots bring the focus closer, highlighting your subject while still maintaining a sense of context. These might include you working at your desk, a chef plating a dish, or a florist arranging blooms.
These shots provide balance – close enough to show detail but wide enough to include some surroundings. They’re often the most versatile for marketing materials, as they feel personal yet professional.
Why They’re Important:
-They showcase your process or products in action.
-They strike a balance between storytelling and detail.
-They’re great for website imagery, social media posts, and brochures.
3 -Close-Up Shots: The Details That Matter
Close-up shots zoom in on the finer details of your brand – the intricate stitching on a handmade product, the rich texture of a freshly baked loaf, or the sparkle of light reflecting on a glass.
These shots draw attention to quality and craftsmanship, showing your audience that you care about the little things.
Why They’re Important:
-They emphasise the unique aspects of your work.
-They convey professionalism and attention to detail.
-They’re ideal for product pages, Instagram posts, or print advertisements.
4 – Very Close (Macro) Shots: Emotive and Abstract
Macro shots take close-ups to the next level, focusing on extreme detail to create images that feel abstract and artistic. Think of the delicate veins of a leaf, the frothy bubbles of a coffee latte, or the grain of natural wood.
These images are about evoking emotion and atmosphere. They’re less about literal storytelling and more about creating a mood that aligns with your brand’s identity.
Why They’re Important:
-They add depth and texture to your visual story.
-They create a sense of intimacy and wonder.
-They’re perfect for adding variety to your social media feed or website galleries.
5 – Abstract Shots: Creative Storytelling
Abstract shots go beyond the obvious to create intrigue and spark curiosity. They might feature out-of-focus lights, shadows on a wall, or reflections in glass.
These shots don’t directly explain your brand but instead offer a creative twist that captures attention and adds visual interest. Abstract images work particularly well when you want to convey a feeling or mood rather than a literal subject.
Why They’re Important:
-They make your visual content stand out.
-They allow for creative expression.
-They’re ideal for branding campaigns where mood and tone are key.
6 – Different Perspectives: A Fresh View
In addition to varying your shot types, changing perspectives adds even more depth to your brand’s story. Photos taken from above (flat lays), below, or at unusual angles can provide fresh and engaging viewpoints.
For example:
-A flat lay of your workspace tells a tidy, organised story.
-A low-angle shot of you in action can convey authority or energy.
-A bird’s-eye view of a completed project can highlight its scale.
By experimenting with perspectives, you keep your imagery dynamic and engaging.
Why They’re Important:
-They prevent your visuals from feeling repetitive.
-They showcase your brand from every angle – literally and figuratively.
-They help capture attention on crowded platforms like Instagram.
Bringing It All Together: The Cohesive Story
When combined, these shot types create a comprehensive visual narrative that draws your audience in and keeps them engaged. Each image complements the others, providing a fuller picture of who you are and what you offer.
Imagine a branding photoshoot for an artisan baker:
Wide shots show the cosy, welcoming bakery.
Mid-range shots capture the baker rolling dough or decorating cakes.
Close-ups highlight the flaky layers of a croissant or the intricate piping on a cupcake.
Macro shots zoom in on flour dusting a surface or the golden crust of a loaf.
Abstract shots play with light and shadows from the bakery window.
Different perspectives include an overhead shot of a display case and a low-angle shot of the baker pulling fresh bread from the oven.
This variety creates a rich, layered story that resonates with customers and leaves a lasting impression.
Ready to Tell Your Brand’s Story?
I specialise in creating branding photography that goes beyond the surface. Together, we’ll craft a collection of images that showcase your brand from every angle – wide, close, abstract, and everything in between.
Let’s work together to tell your story in a way that’s beautiful, professional, and uniquely yours. Get in touch today to book your branding session – I’d love to bring your vision to life!
Using different shot types isn’t just about variety – it’s about storytelling. By blending wide, close, and abstract images, you create a cohesive visual identity that’s as engaging as it is meaningful. Let’s make your brand unforgettable!
