Why choosing a meaningful space matters more than you think
When people think about planning a branding photoshoot, they often imagine finding the perfect backdrop — maybe a trendy café, a white-walled studio, or a colourful mural that will “pop” on Instagram.
But here’s the thing: your location isn’t just a background. It’s part of the story. It defines the tone, mood, and ultimately how connected your images feel – both to you and to the people looking at them.
And the best locations? They’re rarely cookie-cutter.
Personal Spaces = Powerful Images
When I work with clients on branding shoots, one of the first things I help them figure out is where the shoot should take place. And more often than not, the best choice isn’t the most obvious one – it’s a space that already plays a part in their everyday work or life.
Maybe that’s a cosy home office filled with little reminders of their journey. A workshop where their hands get dirty. A local park where they go to think. These personal locations don’t just look good – they feel like something. That feeling creates connection.
Photos taken in meaningful spaces feel grounded, lived-in, and honest. And when people view those images, they sense the truth in them.
Why I don’t shoot everyone in the same spot (Except for Minis — and here’s why that’s different)
There’s a growing trend in branding photography to use the same handful of “pretty” locations again and again: high-rise co-working spaces, minimalist studios, a particular beach or rooftop. It’s safe. It’s clean. It photographs well.
But here’s the problem: it flattens everyone into the same visual identity.
And you? You’re not like everyone else. Your business isn’t mass-produced. So why should your brand photos be?
I don’t believe in templates. I try not to use the same location for every client because each person brings something completely different to the table. Whether you’re a coach, maker, artist, or creative business owner, your environment should reflect your work and your values — not just what’s trending.
There is one exception, though: my Mini Headshot Sessions.
These are designed to be short, efficient sessions. A quick and easy way to update your imagery without the full custom process. Because time is limited, I hold Mini Sessions in a space I know well. That way, I can get straight to work without using precious minutes figuring out where the light is best or which backdrop works.
These sessions aren’t personalised in the same way as a full shoot – but they’re still carefully crafted, professionally executed, and give you a set of strong, usable images. They’re a smart, low-barrier option for people who just need a solid refresh.
Tools of connection — not distance
While the location for your brand shoot plays a huge role in telling your story, there’s another technical choice that shapes how your photos feel: the lens I use.
I shoot most of my branding work with a 35mm lens – a semi-wide, documentary-style focal length that lets me stay physically close to the people I photograph. I don’t need to zoom in from across the room to “get the shot.” I can be present. I can respond to the moment. So can you.
That closeness matters. It shows up in the images. Viewers feel like they’re in the space with you, not looking in from a distance. It creates a sense of intimacy, trust, and realness – which is what good branding should be all about.
My choice of kit is very deliberate. While some brand photographers prefer long telephoto lenses that create beautifully soft backgrounds (so-called bokeh), I don’t even own a lens like that. The look is lovely – but it removes me from the moment, from the scene, from you. It creates distance.
And here’s where lens and location come together: with a 35mm, the background isn’t blurred into softness – it stays present. Recognisable. It becomes an active part of the story we’re telling. The environment you choose won’t just fade away – it helps shape the mood and message of your brand visuals.
As much as I’m an introvert who prefers to observe, I want to be close to the story I’m telling. I use tools that allow me to stay connected – because that’s what I want your audience to feel when they look at your photos. That’s also why my brand photography might look a little different from what you’re used to seeing.
How to choose the right location for your Branding Photos
Not sure what kind of space would work best for your shoot? Here are a few things to think about:
- Start with the spaces you already use. Where do you feel most like yourself? Where do you do your best work?
- Forget perfect. A bit of clutter or imperfection isn’t a problem – it’s often where the personality lives.
- Think about the energy. Do you want to come across as calm, creative, bold, warm, playful, grounded? Your environment can support that.
- Avoid performance. Don’t pick a location because you think it looks “professional” or “on-brand.” Choose it because it is part of your brand already.
The goal is to create photos that feel like an extension of you — not a performance of what you think you should look like.
In the end, your space tells a story
Your branding photos should tell people who you are — not just what you do. And a big part of that story is where it happens.
Choosing the right location is about more than aesthetics. It’s about connection. It’s about putting yourself into your images so that people can recognise something real — and want to work with you because of it.
If you’re planning a branding session and not sure what space tells your story best, I’d love to help you figure it out.
