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Branding Session 101: The Ultimate 8-Step Checklist for Professionals

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)  and Craftsman based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in personal branding and corporate branding.  See more branding images in the gallery.  Contact me to book your branding session today!

Preparing for a branding session might feel like a big task, but with the right checklist, it can be an exciting and stress-free experience! Whether you’re a business professional, entrepreneur, or industry expert, your branding session is your chance to shine and showcase your unique value. To help you feel confident and ready for your big day, I’ve created this step-by-step guide that ensures nothing is left to chance. Let’s dive in!

Houston realtor posing in model home for a branding session.

Step 1: Define Your Vision

Before anything else, we’ll schedule a consultation to clarify your goals and better understand your vision. This conversation helps me learn about the purpose of your branding session—whether the photos are for your website, social media, LinkedIn, or marketing materials. We’ll also discuss your brand values, tone, and personality to ensure the final images align perfectly with your professional identity.

Step 2: Plan Your Look

Your overall appearance plays a huge role in making your branding session a success. During our consultation, we’ll discuss outfit options that reflect your brand and make you feel confident. I also collaborate with a local stylist and a professional makeup artist who will help you look your absolute best on the day of the session. From wardrobe choices to flawless makeup and hair, we’ll make sure every detail is perfect.

Step 3: Prep Your Props

Props can add personality and context to your photos. Think about items relevant to your industry or role. For example:

  • Medical professionals might bring a white coat, stethoscope, or clipboard.
  • Real estate agents could showcase a “Sold” sign or a property brochure.
  • Therapists might use a notebook, comfortable chair, or a cup of tea.
  • Corporate professionals could include a laptop, notepad, or office decor.
  • Oil and gas industry professionals might feature a hard hat or industry-specific tools.

Make sure the props align with your goals and enhance your story.

Female law professional on the phone during her branding session.

Step 4: Scout Your Location

The right location can elevate your branding session. During our consultation, we’ll discuss your brand’s aesthetic and goals to determine the best location for your session. Whether it’s a studio, your office, or an outdoor setting, I’ll help scout and suggest locations that align with your vision. Together, we’ll find the perfect backdrop to showcase your story.

Step 5: Organize Your Essentials

Pack a small bag with session-day essentials, including:

  • Makeup touch-up kit
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Lint roller
  • Comfortable shoes for walking between shots
  • Water and snacks (it’s a long day!)

Step 6: Practice Your Poses

A little practice goes a long way in helping you feel confident in front of the camera. Stand in front of a mirror and try different poses, angles, and expressions. Don’t worry if you feel unsure—I’ll guide you through poses during the session to create professional yet natural-looking photos that reflect your personality.

Compass realtor posing outdoors for a branding photo session.

Step 7: Communicate with Me

Don’t hesitate to share your ideas, inspiration, and concerns with me. The more I know about your vision, the better I can tailor the session to your needs. Feel free to bring reference images if you have a specific look in mind—I’m here to collaborate and make your vision a reality.

Step 8: Relax and Have Fun!

Finally, remember that your branding session is about celebrating you and your professional journey. Take a deep breath, trust the process, and enjoy the experience. I’ll be there every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and confident.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a branding session might seem overwhelming, but this checklist ensures you’re ready to show up as your best self. By defining your vision, planning your look, and collaborating with me, you’re setting the stage for a successful shoot. I can’t wait to work with you and create images that truly represent your unique brand!

Female law professional standing and smiling for her branding photo session.

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP)  and Craftsman based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in personal branding and corporate branding.  See more branding images in the gallery.  Contact me to book your branding session today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17961749040003344
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻 If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal. Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves. But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self. Here’s how I help clients do just that: 1️⃣ The Consultation Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed). 2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos. 3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence. Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛 📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today. #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀

#headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18097105072802709
Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻 ✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that. Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send? Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀 #headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful.

✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace.
📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together.
😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun.
🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses.

There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them.

Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life.

📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started!

#familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18058614485560833
I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful. ✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace. 📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together. 😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun. 🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses. There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them. Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life. 📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started! #familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

Here`s the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won`t tell you 👇🏻

If a casting director can`t immediately see what role you`d play just by looking at your photo, you`ve already lost the audition.

Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach.

Most actors think they need one `perfect` headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren`t looking for pleasant—they`re looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly.

That`s why specificity wins:
✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles
✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters
✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts

But here`s the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities.

You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they`re thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project.

Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple `looks` in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional.

Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let`s plan a session that shows your full range.

#actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

3 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18086244871763501
Here's the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won't tell you 👇🏻 If a casting director can't immediately see what role you'd play just by looking at your photo, you've already lost the audition. Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach. Most actors think they need one 'perfect' headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren't looking for pleasant—they're looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly. That's why specificity wins: ✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles ✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters ✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts But here's the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities. You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they're thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project. Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple 'looks' in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional. Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let's plan a session that shows your full range. #actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.