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branding

What to expect at a Personal Branding Photoshoot

November 17, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

Having your portrait taken by a professional photographer makes many people nervous for different reasons. One of the reasons might be not knowing what to expect. Like in every special field, my approach as a brand photographer is totally different from a normal portrait photographer.

elegant flower bouquet and delivery box in lifestyle picture

⁠But let’s find out how:

When I find your inquiry in my inbox I will respond personally, because no email template will be able to answer to the uniqueness of your needs. ⁠Most probably we schedule a quick discovery call to find out more about your vision. ⁠
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Next thing I need you to do is take a few minutes to fill in my very thorough questionnaire. I want you to think about the purpose of your business, your passion, your audience. ⁠This already digs deep into your brand personality and will help translate your brand message into your imagery.
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After we agreed on a date for the photoshoot we/I dive into planning: compositions, locations, props, outfits etc. All in line with your branding of course, meaning colours and vibes.
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The day you might dread most is finally here: shoot day! However now it’s time to relax and enjoy, because we have a detailed shoot script to follow and I will! (This is the part where I can get very bossy for the benefit of creating a versatile image library for you)⁠

I follow the social media content pillars, for you to be able to walk away with a cohesive image gallery that tells the unique story about your brand. This means I will create imagery that showcases the different facets of your business and personality. As Seth Godin puts it:

“Marketing is no longer about the stuff you make but about the stories you tell.”

We will most likely start in a sitting position at a desk, pretend working. This way your mind is occupied and you forget how nervous you are. In addition you don’t really need to worry about posing, as all the working poses come natural to you. Finally, no need to fret, as I will make sure you have imagery for every story you want to tell.

Showcasing your product/service

two women sitting on a desk working together

Internal and external content is about what you do, your service, your product. Pictures of you at your desk, handling your product, dealing with a client, using the tools of your trade. You on your phone, at your laptop, writing in your notebook. Basically everything that happens in a normal work day.

Inspiration

two women sitting on sofa laughing together with champagne and pralines

Inspirational content about what moves or makes you. Special facial expressions like “listen” or “be quite” will serve as scroll-stopping images to get the attention of your followers. Ignite your creativity, blow confetti, pop some bubbly, indulge in macarons, put your headphones on, have an espresso. Get personable, vulnerable even, in order to give your audience the chance to resonate with you.

Introduction

And last but not least the portraits or formal portraits to be precise, because by now I have a ton of portraits of you already, without you even realising it. I shoot every composition set up from different angles and distances, so you won’t end up with lots of frontal portraits but rather a wholistic view.

Done!

Now it is time for you to relax, but only for a bit, because you will receive your stunning new image library within three working days. ⁠And then it’s time to share the “new you” with the world!

Filed Under: branding, photography tips

How to visualise your Brand Story

November 4, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

Feeling confident while doubling your Instagram followers

Very often I realise that entrepreneurs underestimate the power of branding in view of communicating their brand story with brand-on imagery. I get it, marketing is complex and can be quite intimidating, so we postpone it to later, or pray to the universe to be seen, somehow. But it doesn’t have to be like that, as there are many boss ladies out there we can take on as role models.

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

Please meet Christine, a Feng Shui consultant who started off her career here in Singapore, many years ago. Even now that she has relocated back to Germany, she visits the Little Red Dot on a regular basis, for trainings or conventions, as well as branding photo shoots. 

Christine, why would you hire a Personal Branding photographer? 

“When I was searching for pictures for my website and social media, I quickly realised how difficult it can be to find the „right“ pictures. As a solo entrepreneur I want people to recognise me, my brand, whether they see my posts on Instagram, Facebook or come across my blog. I needed someone who understands how to translate my brand, my colours, my story and values into pictures . I still use some of the pictures from our very first shoot, five years ago.” 

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

As a returning client I know her brand very well, so there is no need for the questionnaire I normally send to every new client, to determine the vibe and story of the brand. I tell my clients to take their time when answering, the more they write, the better, because these answers help me visualise the brand story which results in brand-on imagery. 

Nonetheless, I believe in thorough planning to make the photoshoot for my clients a walk in the park. After a quick chat with Christine I went out location scouting, as she gave clear instructions of what she had in mind. 

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

Christine, how did you prepare for the photo shoot?

“I remember our chat on the phone, when you asked me to think about my outfit, make-up and some props. You provided me with a few ideas, so I could search the internet and create my very own ‘mood board’. I had never heard of a mood board before, but it totally made sense: I looked for pictures, gestures and locations which would perfectly go with blog posts or articles I had in planning. 

As a consultant I also wanted a few pictures of me ‘consulting’ and you not only found spot on locations but also surprised me with a friend of yours who acted as a client. It was perfect! In retrospect, thanks to your detailed planning, I ended up with so many great pictures, even though my schedule was really tight and I only had four hours for the shoot.” 

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

Although planning is a big part of a smooth photoshoot, the execution can be quite exhausting, especially in hot and humid Singapore. I plan more indoors than outdoors, but with Christine it was more outside to show more of the Feng Shui philosophy. 

We started off in a coffee shop where we covered the consulting part as well as some working scenes and portraits, head shots and half body. I always make sure to cover different angles of one composition, wide angle and close ups to give as much variety and therefore possibility for my client.

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photoshoot

Christine, tell us, how did your pictures turn out and where do you use them?

“Like many women, I don’t really like myself in pictures. Sometimes I think I’m just too critical with my own appearance. You really managed to find a good angle to make me look slimmer, younger and … very professional. I feel quite confident using my photos now and I get compliments from clients and friends for those cool head shots. 

Life became easier for me since I have this pool of pictures to chose from, whenever there’s an update on my website or a new post on social media. I even used one for the cover of my fist book and on my new roll-up. 

The number of my instagram followers doubled … and to be honest, that’s not so much my brilliant content but the extraordinary pictures you took in Singapore. I’m really glad that our paths had crossed and I can highly recommend having an experienced brand photographer taking your pictures, as it certainly elevates your brand. Thanks Silke, for making my website nicer and my life easier.”

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot
Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

I build partnerships with my clients and take the time to plan, style and intentionally create compelling imagery. My aim is to create positive and impactful experiences with everyone I work with. And more often we become friends. 

By the way, did you know there is a ‘best time’ to launch your new website? If you want to know more about the powerful energy of Feng Shui, hop over to Christine’s website and have a look around. If you don’t speak German, no problem, as she consults in English as well. 

Zebra&Jojo Photography Branding Photo Shoot

Filed Under: branding

What is a Personal Brand?

November 3, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

We use many brands on a daily basis, without even really thinking about it, right? So, what is your favourite brand? No matter what your answer is, your chosen brand has earned your trust because you can relate to their values and visions, as their product speaks to you at a deeper level than their competitors do. 

As humans we are prone to emotions and stories and a brand is nothing more than a distinctive perception of stories, emotions and expectations that people have about a company. And which is accountable in the decision of choosing one brand over another. 

A brand is the perception of a company in the eyes of a consumer.

It is the age of social media and in todays digital life we are very visible, and we all have all been googled, at least at one stage of our career, but have you ever googled yourself? And if so, did you like what you saw, is it really you? You might want to pause here for a while, and think about it, because that is how the world sees you, that’s the perception others have of you. And if you aren’t properly managing your online reputation, then others will do it for you. 

Branding is the active process of forming a reputation, your brand.

To create a strong and memorable brand there are a few elements to it: 

Name & Logo

The first and most important part of your business journey, as your business name will exist for the duration of its lifetime. To find the ideal name ask yourself some questions:

Does the name need to mean something? Do you need to relate to it? Is it unique? 

Your logo is the one image that will come to mind when people think about your company. 

Brand Colours & Vibes

For your brand colours and vibes you need to be aware that your choice is key to initiate a distinct vibe for your brand. All the big banks and insurances like Deutsche Bank or Allianz chose blue for a reason as the colour blue is related to trust. 

Voice & Heart

How are you addressing your customers? Are you serious and formal or warm and friendly? It is important to use a tone that feels aligned with your customers but also authentic to you. 

And the most important part: what is your why? 

Earn your customers trust by clearly stating your brand mission, your core value. 

Now you have the setup, but for a successful marketing strategy you want to own your brand. Do you know on which social platforms your customers are? Because you want to be there and proactively engage in conversations instead of waiting for your customers to find you. For a strong profile make sure that your website as well as all your social media platforms are align. Be consistent in your posting and keep in mind that your social voice is your brand voice, aka your voice. And last but not least, choose your imagery according to your brand, this will ensure a cohesive brand aesthetic. 

Filed Under: branding

How to use Lifestyle Photography effectively on social media…

November 3, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

…or anywhere on the Internet really. In a world with too many words, our brain intuitively longs for instant comprehension. ‘A picture is worth a thousand words’, they say. Lifestyle Photography or Personal branding photography is nothing else but visual story telling to connect with your audience, your dream clients or customers on a deeper level to grow your business, your personal brand. 

Updated, consistent and customised imagery on every social platform 

Whether you have a date or a job interview, chances are that someone is going to google you to learn more about who you are. These results are the first impression people will have of you. The question is, do you want to allow your online reputation to take on a life of its own or control the narrative? Wherever people find you online, on your website, Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp etc, they should see updated, consistent and customised lifestyle imagery of you.

Lifestyle photography creates powerful magic for your online appearance

When people google you, they want to get to know you, especially when you are a business owner. Who are you? What is the nature of your business, what drives you? What do you stand for? And what do you do after hours, for fun? Each and everyone of us has so many facets to showcase and so many commonalities to engage with. Show them all in a professional headshot, photos of your products, tools of your trade, you thriving in your work environment, you enjoying life at the beach. Stand out in a crowd of professionals, entrepreneurs and executives with intentionally created images completely unique to only you. 

Image + Caption = Engagement 

According to Facebook the post scroll span on mobile devices is 1.7 seconds. In other words, you have 1.7 seconds to engage your potential client into a meaningful conversation on Facebook. And that is the world at your feet, because as you know your audience, you know where they hang out and what they like, the only thing you have to do is be YOU. Writing meaningful captions for social media can be quite overwhelming and time absorbing so let me try to break it down into three different categories. 

Introduction

Introduce yourself to your audience, tell them who you are. What is your vision, what drives you? How do you organise yourself? Share personal insight not only of you as a person, but also of your daily life, including your family and friends.

Showcasing Product/Service

In order for people to buy from you they need to build trust in you and your product/service first. Explain your product/service and what makes you stand out from your contenders. Share all the benefits of your product/service and let them in on behind-the-scenes. When you make your audience feel known, seen and heard, your business will be the only option for them. 

Inspiration

I have to admit, I love quotes. I am a positive person and love uplifting words which put a smile on my face. And according to statistics, Instagram loves quotes as well, they receive much more engagement than other posts. Spread some sparkles by empowering your audience. Besides quotes this can include anything from random facts to your favourite dish or drink. Be creative! 

Filed Under: branding, social media

Do I need a photo of myself on my website?

November 3, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

The short answer: Yes! As the head of your business, you are the centrepiece. 

We don’t argue about the necessity of having a website, right? As a business woman you know that your website serves as your digital business card, it reflects your personal brand. The vast majority of your potential clients will check out your website before even meeting with you. It is the go-to platform to find out more about the person behind the brand, the one they are going to purchase a product from or request their service. 

In other words your website is an important element in making an impactful first impression. But furthermore, its your opportunity to instantly connect with your visitors, by telling your story throughout the different pages and give your potential clients a chance to resonate with you, so they find reason to come back. And for that, you need to be present. 

On many websites you will find the host only on the ‘about’ page, which is a missed opportunity. Let me explain why: 

Silke Dietz of Zebra&Jojo Photography

Home-Page

Imagine you knock on somebody’s door and after the door swings wide open you see … no one. So you wander around the house until you finally find the host. Weird, right? Same goes to your website. Instead of ghosting your visitors, why don’t you greet them with a friendly smile right at the door; your home page? 

Silke Dietz of Zebra&Jojo Photography

About-Page

The obvious one, yet often not delivered. My first click on any website is the ‘about’ button, and when I don’t find any face there, but instead some zealous summery of expertise, I am gone. 

People click on the ‘about’ button for a reason. They want to meet YOU! They want to get to know YOU! It really is that simple. 

Silke Dietz of Zebra&Jojo Photography

Contact-Page

Hurrah! Your visitor has clicked on ‘contact’. This means he/she wants to engage. Show your audience that you are there, right from the beginning, by sending over a friendly smile. 

In case you ever wondered if you could appear on your own website too often, the answer is no, as long as you make sure to underline your pictures with the respective copy. 

If you have any questions about branding or need help with imagery for your website, please don’t hesitate to drop me an email. I am here for you! 

Filed Under: branding

Why you should hire a Make up artist for your Professional Photoshoot

November 2, 2020 by Silke Dietz Leave a Comment

How makeup appears in photos is very different than how makeup appears when you wear it every day

written by Gayathri Menon of Gayathri Menon Makeup and Styling

Having a professional makeup artist will make you feel more confident about the photoshoot and more at ease in general. In any photoshoot, you want to be as relaxed as possible, as your demeanor will have an impact on the way your images turn out. The makeup colours you choose for photoshoots,  will directly impact how your photographs turn out.

You want the makeup, clothing, hair style and wardrobe to work with your face, and not against it. 

A makeup artist’s job is helping you make sure all these factors come together to make the best photographs and portray you in the best possible light.

Makeup artists can do wonders very quickly, and can also change things in an instant if you want to try a few different options for the shoot.

A makeup artist is the specialist that can really help diagnose and fix any makeup issue or potential issue very quickly. Especially with so many different factors that go into the photoshoot, you don’t want makeup to get in the way or be an area of concern. 

Make sure you have a professional photoshoot makeup artist that can provide their opinion as to the best way to coordinate your makeup selection.

A professional photo shoot has so many benefits and is one of the most important factors in how you present yourself aside from physically being there, so make sure you ensure the photography session has the best outcome by hiring a professional makeup artist to be as certain as possible it turns out great!

Hiring a great photoshoot makeup artist will save time and expense in terms of the photo retouching that will need to be done after the shoot. Whatever it costs to hire a makeup artist, you will generally get back in the time it will save in retouching the photos. Make sure your photographer knows you’ll have a makeup artist on hand for the photoshoot .

Ensure that your makeup artist also does hair, if not be prepared to plan hair at your end before you reach the shoot.  

Discussing basic looks,  wardrobe and other aspects helps make the process of the photoshoot simple and flowing.  

Makeup artists have the experience needed to make sure you present yourself in the very best way, will add to your confidence level during the shoot, and will eliminate you having to choose makeup that may not look as great in the photos as it does in everyday wear. In many cases, your photo is the first impression people have of you, and first impressions count!

So book your photoshoot makeup artist now, be it personal branding,  glamour, boudoir or just a headshot. 

Filed Under: branding, photography tips, styling

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LAST CALL! ⁠ Sign up for my FREE Mini Workshop LAST CALL! 
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Sign up for my FREE Mini Workshop to learn all about how to work your social media in a painless and timesaving manner. ⁠
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Learn:⁠
- how to create a cohesive look on website and social media.⁠
- how to draft compelling posts to start conversations in no time.⁠
- How to find the right pictures to tell the story of your brand, your story. ⁠
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How:⁠
3 days, 3 emails, 3 challenges. ⁠
Start March 1st.⁠

Link in bio 🌼 Or DM me your email address and I add you to the list.
We business owners wear many hats, besides our act We business owners wear many hats, besides our actual profession. We juggle client management, accounting, website, and what else. ⁠
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But the biggest challenge for most is social media management. Finding pictures and writing captions that resonate with your ideal client and drive business your way.⁠
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If you struggle with anything of the above this offer is for you:⁠
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FREE Mini Workshop:⁠
How to visualize your Brand Story⁠
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Le me show you an easy way find pictures to create a cohesive and professional look on your social media, with ideas for captions that speak to your ideal clients and build trust to eventually convert sales. ⁠
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3 days, 3 emails, 3 challenges a couple of minutes each day. ⁠
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Are you ready? ⁠Then send me your favourite emoji flower. 
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Sorry love, not my words, but maybe the perception Sorry love, not my words, but maybe the perception of your website? When you look at it, does it SHOWcase the individual service you are providing and the outstanding product you sell? ⁠
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I know you have spent hours and days if not months on creating a website that resonates with your clients, but let’s have a closer look together, shall we? Let’s look at it from a potential customers point of view. Does it reflect their values? Does it address their pain points and needs? And most importantly are YOU SHOWING up?⁠
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If you have a straight YES to all of these questions you are good to go. If not, sign up for my 💫FREE mini workshop💫 on How to visualize your Brand Story. ⁠
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Learn:⁠
- how to create a cohesive look on website and social media.⁠
- how to draft compelling posts to start conversations in no time.⁠
- How to find the right pictures to tell the story of your brand, your story. ⁠
⁠
How:⁠
3 days, 3 emails, 3 challenges. ⁠
Start March 1st.⁠
⁠
Link in bio 🌼
Have you noticed when you smile at somebody they s Have you noticed when you smile at somebody they smile back at you?⁠
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It’s the same when you post on Instagram. You know that an image of yourself has more engagement than a standard stock photo. ⁠
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FACT: Engagement on social media is 38% higher when you show your face. Yep. ⁠
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And there are so many ways to create a stunning  portrait. ⁠
Think all the different angles or emotions. ⁠
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Join my 💫FREE mini workshop💫 on How to visualize your Brand Story. ⁠
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Let's get real for a moment: Social Media posting Let's get real for a moment: Social Media posting is a pain. It takes forever to find a picture and another eternity to find a topic to write about. And don't get me started on the overall look, right? ⁠
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What if - ⁠
there is an easy and timesaving way to get the job done? Tips on how to select pictures to create a cohesive and professional look in your IG feed. With spot on captions that drive business your way? ⁠
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FREE Mini Workshop⁠
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The Story of your Brand is all there, you just need to learn how to piece it together. Sign up for my FREE workshop and let me help you to visualize your Brand Story.⁠
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