First impressions truly matter; professional corporate headshots or team photos can make a huge difference to brand perception and customer engagement.
But getting everyone in your organisation aligned and prepared for a photoshoot can be a little daunting. After all, you want images that capture your team’s expertise and personality, while also reflecting the values of your company.
If you’re based in Surrey or the surrounding area and are getting ready to level up your business image, read on. This guide will arm you with practical tips to ensure your team looks polished, confident, and ready to showcase your brand in the best possible light.
1 – Communicate the Vision
It all starts with clear communication. Let your team know why you’re organising a corporate photoshoot and what you aim to achieve.
Are you updating your website with staff headshots? Perhaps you’re creating a brochure highlighting your company’s culture. By sharing your objectives, you’ll help everyone understand the purpose of the shoot and their role in it.
Encourage them to raise any questions or concerns. The more comfortable and well-informed your team is, the more natural and polished they’ll appear in front of the camera.
Tip: If time permits, organise a short meeting or send an email briefing. Outline the schedule, wardrobe guidelines, and the intended mood or style of the photos so your team can prepare in advance.
2 – Plan the Wardrobe
Wardrobe can make or break the success of a corporate photoshoot. You don’t necessarily need everyone in matching outfits, but it’s crucial to have a cohesive look.
Ask your team to avoid busy patterns or large logos that might distract from their faces. Neutral tones and solid colours work best for professional images, but you can always add a subtle pop of colour if it aligns with your branding.
Tip: Offer a simple dress code: for instance, “business casual with dark trousers and light tops” or “formal wear with navy or grey suits.”
If your brand is more relaxed, suggest well-fitted jeans and smart tops or blazers. This way, the team will look coordinated without appearing overly staged.
3 – Schedule Strategically
A corporate photoshoot can be a time-consuming process, especially if you have a large team. To keep everyone happy (and your office productivity intact), plan the session during less busy periods or off-peak times.
If it’s feasible, split the shoot into smaller time slots to reduce long waiting times and ensure each team member appears fresh and enthusiastic.
Tip: Create a shared calendar or spreadsheet with each person’s timeslot. This clear timetable will help avoid confusion and ensure a smooth flow on the day of the photoshoot.
4 – Encourage Proper Grooming
Even subtle enhancements can create a world of difference in a photograph.
Remind your colleagues to get a good night’s sleep before the shoot. Encourage them to drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol the night before, as it can result in dehydration or a tired appearance.
For the day of the shoot, advise everyone to style their hair neatly and consider a little touch-up with make-up if it’s within their comfort zone.
Tip: Offer a short grooming guide via email – recommending standard do’s and don’ts such as “arrive with clean, brushed hair” or “keep make-up natural and minimal.” Small details can significantly elevate the overall professionalism of your photos.
5 – Set the Mood on the Day
On the morning of the shoot, try to create a calm and upbeat atmosphere. If possible, designate a tidy and well-lit room for quick final touch-ups.
Provide bottled water and perhaps some light refreshments to keep spirits high. The more relaxed your colleagues are, the more genuine their smiles will be on camera.
Tip: Play some light background music if it fits your office environment. A touch of background noise can help people loosen up and reduce any awkwardness in front of the camera.
6 – Offer Gentle Guidance
Not everyone is comfortable posing for photographs, especially when the stakes feel high.
A great photographer will guide individuals with prompts—such as how to stand or where to place their hands—to achieve the most flattering angles. You can also encourage your team to practice simple poses in front of a mirror beforehand. This mini rehearsal can make the day run more smoothly and help your staff feel more at ease when it’s their turn.
Tip: Have a few go-to poses or stances in mind. For example, an angled pose with arms relaxed at the sides. Small adjustments—like lowering the chin slightly—can make all the difference in creating a confident, approachable portrait.
7 – Showcase Your Brand’s Personality
Although consistency is key, don’t be afraid to let your company’s personality shine through.
If your brand is fun, youthful, and creative, consider giving the shoot a more relaxed vibe with casual attire or a playful group shot. If your company is more traditional, keep the tone formal but warm.
These decisions make your photos instantly recognisable as part of your brand story.
Tip: Incorporate subtle branded elements, like your company’s coloured ties, scarves, or a tasteful backdrop featuring your brand’s accent colour. You want the final shots to resonate with clients and prospective partners, so reflect the essence of what your business stands for.
8 – Plan for Retouching and Final Usage
Discuss with your photographer how much retouching or editing you require.
Do you need minor blemishes removed, or is there a specific colour grading you’re after? Having this conversation early ensures the final images meet your expectations.
Also, consider where these images will be used—on business cards, LinkedIn, your website, or marketing materials. Each platform might need a slightly different crop or orientation.
Tip: Ask for both high-resolution files (for print) and web-friendly versions. This will save you time when you come to use the images across different media.
9 – Debrief and Share Results
Once you receive the final edited images, don’t just file them away. Share the best shots with your team to boost morale and ensure everyone’s happy with their photo. You can also post a sneak peek on your social channels to give clients and stakeholders a glimpse behind the scenes.
Tip: Encourage employees to use their new headshots on professional networking sites like LinkedIn. A cohesive and polished look across multiple platforms reinforces your brand identity.
Fancy booking a shoot?
A well-executed corporate photoshoot can reinforce your company’s brand image, foster team unity, and leave a lasting positive impression on clients. By communicating your vision, planning thoroughly, and providing guidance every step of the way, you’ll achieve stunning results that truly capture the essence of your Surrey-based business.
If you need further support or want to book a professional photographer who understands the unique dynamics of corporate shoots, I’d be delighted to help.
Get in touch today to discuss your requirements, and we can work together to create the kind of visual content that propels your brand forward. Your team will thank you for the smooth, professional, and ultimately enjoyable experience.
