Unleashing the power of 'corporate' photography when you're not a corporate business!
I’ve got an issue with the term 'corporate photography'. Well, it’s more the 'corporate' part in particular.
It just sounds so stuffy and makes you think of big businesses in flashy offices with everyone in dark suits! If you’re a solopreneur or you run a small business, you might think the same and that corporate photography isn’t for you. Well let me tell you, business photography (I prefer calling it this) is a game changer for smaller, non-corporate businesses and I'm going to tell you why.
In this article, we’ll look at why corporate photography is important, the benefits it can bring to your business, and how to find the right photographer to get exactly what you need.
What is corporate photography?
Let's start here! Corporate photography is about capturing images that show a company's brand, culture, and people. It's about telling the story of a business through images that help them connect with their audience.
These photos can be used for a variety of purposes, such as company websites, marketing materials, and social media platforms. Typically this will include staff headshots, action shots, product photography, company event photography and general images for websites etc.
Whilst corporate photography may seem like something only large businesses need, it can actually be more important for smaller businesses to take it seriously.
Understanding the importance of corporate photography.
So why is business photography so important? It’s all about first impressions. Having the right photography for all your major touchpoints is going to help you establish your brand identity. High-quality corporate or business photos can help you stand out from your competitors and communicate your brand values to your customers.
It will also help you build trust with your audience. Professional photos of your products, services and your team will show your audience that you take your business seriously and that high quality is part of your identity.
If you’re talking a good game why let yourself down with poor quality photos? Your audience will always notice the small details like this so don't miss the opportunity.
3 benefits of investing in corporate photography
increased brand awareness
High-quality corporate photos can help you establish your brand identity and increase your brand awareness. When customers see professional photos of your products, services, and team, they are more likely to remember your brand and recommend it to others.
Improved online presence
Everyone is online these days. So you need to stand out and get noticed. Corporate photography can help you improve your website, social media profiles, and other online platforms. High-quality photos can make your business look more professional and trustworthy, and can help you attract more of the people you want to work with.
Better marketing materials
Corporate photography can also help you create better marketing materials. Whether you are creating flyers, brochures, or other promotional materials, high-quality photos can help you make a stronger impact and communicate your message more effectively.
How to find the right corporate photographer.
There are thousands of photographers out there so how do you find the one that’s right for you and your business? Here are a few points to consider.
Check their style
Can they shoot the style of photos you're looking for? Look at their work and make sure you can see how it can align with your brand. Don't be too rigid on these. You can always ask for examples if it's not obvious.
Check services offered
It’s always advisable to work with a photographer who provides the service you need. For example, would it make sense to hire a wedding photographer for your business shots? Different areas of photography require different skill sets both in technical ability and people skills.
read reviews
Come on, we don’t buy anything today without reading reviews, do we? Choosing your photographer is no different. Look at their reviews and testimonials online. What are others saying? Is there a positive pattern? Look for photographers who have great reviews and who are recommended by others.
personality
One of the most important points. You need to work with someone you can get along with. You should get a feel for this from their social media but chat with them, ask them questions etc. You’ll soon get a feel for them as a person.
The role of corporate photography in branding and marketing.
Professional business photography plays a key role in branding and marketing. Its an opportunity to get your images working for you and telling the story of your business. Here are some examples of how corporate photography can be used in your branding and marketing efforts:
Headhots
get the basics right
Headhots
get the basics right
The perfect opportunity to establish your brand identity and build trust with your customers. Staff headshots are great for your website and platforms like LinkedIn, Teams and other sites where you’ll benefit from showing up looking your best.
Action Shots
perfect for websites and socials
Action Shots
perfect for websites and socials
Action shots make perfect website photography that’s equally at home on your social media and in your marketing material. Planned right it can be used time and time again.
Event Photography
Team meetings to company parties
Event Photography
Team meetings to company parties
This is often underestimated but having professional photos of your company events is a simple way to create some amazing content. It’s the perfect opportunity to show your audience your special moments and give a glimpse into your culture.
How much is corporate photography?
Corporate photography prices can vary widely depending on the photographer's experience, location, and the scope of the project. Let’s look at what can affect the cost.
Photographer Experience
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Photographer Experience
...
Experience is more valuable to you. Having someone who knows exactly what they're doing, how to get the best results, how to shoot with the minimum of fuss and of course having the right equipment, is always better than going cheap and cutting corners.
Location
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Location
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Corporate photography prices can also vary depending on your location.
Photographers in larger cities may charge more than photographers in smaller towns.
Project scope
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Project scope
...
The scope of the project can also affect prices. Usually this will be based on the time required to plan the shoot, capture the images and the time taken for all post production and editing work after the session.
Corporate photography tips for non corporate businesses...
Here are a few simple tips to make sure you get the best from your business photoshoot.
plan ahead
Before your photoshoot, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. This will help you communicate your needs to your photographer and ensure that you get the results you're looking for. You can use a mood board or examples of shots you like.
If you’re not sure exactly what you want discuss it with your photographer. A professional with experience will be able to listen, advise and give support to help you get you what you need.
think about your brand values
Be clear on your brand values before you shoot. This will help make sure you stay on brand and get the right images from your session. It will help you choose the right style and tone for your images.
use your photos consistently
Once you’ve got your images, make sure you use them consistently across all your website, socials and marketing materials. This will help you establish a strong brand identity and make your business more memorable to your customers.
The game changer: How corporate photography can take your non corporate business to new levels.
You don’t need to be a big flashy business to benefit from investing in professional photography for your business. In fact, being smaller makes it even more important to show up online in the best way you can.
A (non) corporate photoshoot will give you the materials you need to build trust with your audience, create a professional image and build that business brand that will get you noticed.
Whether you're looking for headshots, action shots, product photography, or event photography, finding the right photographer can help you get the results you're looking for.
Need help with your business photography?
If you're a non corporate business looking for fresh content I'd love to help you with your photography.
I work with clients across the Hampshire (Southampton, Winchester and Portsmouth etc) Surrey and in London. Get in touch using the form below and let's uncover what can be done for you.
If you're a solopreneur worried this is still doesn't feel like you check out my Personal Branding photo sessions here.
