Brandmerry Blog Archives
A Simplified 6-Step Process to Successful New Year Planning for Entrepreneurs
In a recent podcast episode, I shared insights into a brand-new planning course designed exclusively for entrepreneurs.
Today, I want to give you a glimpse into my signature planning process, by walking you through the steps I use to plan each year in business. Not only will I provide you with a sneak peek into some essential questions, but I'll also guide you on how to implement this framework as you prepare for the year ahead.
Pro tip: If you're eager to take your planning game to the next level, consider checking out my course, Brand New Plan, at brandmerry.com/newplan. This program was created to help entrepreneurs create authentic goals and align their planning strategies with ease.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
The 6-step process I use to plan my business each year that ensures I remain consistent at a 6-figure minimum.
The important pre-planning phase that most entrepreneurs skip, but will make your process so much easier
The exact questions to ask yourself at each stage of the planning process, and what data is essential to have.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 102 now.
Step 1: Dreaming Big - What Do You Want?
The foundational step in this transformative planning process is to take time and dream about what's possible for your life and business in the upcoming year. This is not about data or strategy; it's about envisioning the impact you want to create and the experiences you desire in the year ahead.
Spend 15 to 20 minutes journaling on what you desire or use the prompts inside module one of Brand New Plan to explore your aspirations for the year ahead. Remember, this dreaming phase sets the stage for authenticity and alignment throughout the year.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
What do you want your business to look like in the new year?
What do you envision your business doing, and what impact do you envision having?
What experiences do you want to see happening in your business?
What do you want to see and experience in your personal life?
Step 2: Reflecting on the Past and Present - A Holistic Assessment
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details of planning, it's essential to reflect on the past year. This involves a personal reflection on your feelings, identifying what excites you, and discerning the aspects that don't align with your vision.
Simultaneously, I recommend conducting a business audit, evaluating factors such as lead generation, offer performance, and overall business sentiment. It’s important to take this pause before the new year to assess how things are feeling, what you love about your work, and what you don’t.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
How does your business feel overall?
What feels great, and what doesn't feel great in your business?
What excites you, and what doesn't excite you about your business?
What aspects of your business do you want to carry into the new year, and what do you want to leave behind?
Step 3: Choosing Your Goals and Revenue - A Shift Towards Authenticity
Avoid the entrepreneurial trap of setting goals based on external expectations.
Instead, prioritize your top personal and business goals for the year, and identify the shifts needed in your habits to align with these objectives. When it comes to revenue goals, embrace a process that allows you to authentically choose numbers reflective of your priorities, both in business and personal life.
It’s a great idea to think about the things you’d like to accomplish this year on a personal level and think about how your business can support you in reaching those goals. Remember, our business is meant to complement our lives not take away from them.
Inside Brand New Plan, I guide you through this process, but to help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
What are your top priorities for the new year as a business owner?
What business habits feel aligned with your goals?
What personal priorities should be considered alongside your business goals?
How do you feel about your revenue goal? Does it feel possible, scary, or easy?
Step 4: Defining Achievable Goals - Your Yearly Roadmap
With your overarching goals in mind, start determining what your main goals will be in both your personal and professional life. I suggest choosing no more than three goals for your business and three goals for your personal life.
You also want to map out what habits you’ll need to get there! This is part of the identity shift and all of your goals are going to require consistency. Determine what those habits will be and consider utilizing a habit tracker.
As a reminder, this step is about determining your big three focuses in both areas so we can then create a monthly focus and actionable quarterly plan.
Step 5: Monthly Themes - Shaping Your Year with Intent
At this step, you want to choose monthly themes for your yearly roadmap. It’s not just about breaking your three main goals into smaller projects, but also assessing how the seasons and holidays impact your life and business.
Inside Brand New Plan, I encourage you to dig deep into your seasonal changes both in life and business, as well as take into consideration holidays. Knowing this BEFORE you plan your months is key. It helps you better understand when you can go all in and when you need to pull back.
While we’re not quite at the detailed checklist yet, you do want to try and categorize which months you’ll focus on and what projects will help you reach your end-of-the-year goals.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
Are there specific seasons where you can give more or need to pull back?
Which holidays are important to you personally, and which are impactful for your business?
How do seasons and holidays impact your monthly focus?
Step 6: 90-Day Planning - Navigating the Details
Now, it’s time to dive into the specifics by focusing on a 90-day plan. Break down your goals for the next three months, identifying the steps required for each project you’ve deemed the priorities.
Prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and leverage task management tools to keep yourself accountable. I love using Clickup for this approach because it allows for flexibility, adaptation, and constant alignment, plus it keeps me organized and on track.
I also utilize ClickUp to track my daily, weekly, and monthly business habits. These habits serve as the backbone of your journey, keeping you on track and motivated throughout the year. By infusing intentionality into your routine, you empower yourself to navigate challenges and stay aligned with your goals.
This 90-day process is something you’ll repeat every quarter. With Brand New Plan, you’ll have both a business audit and a life audit framework to follow.
Conclusion: A Personalized Blueprint for Success
By starting with your authentic self, aligning your goals, and breaking down your plan into manageable chunks, you set the stage for a year of growth and fulfillment.
Remember, this process is not a one-time event but a continuous cycle of reflection, adaptation, and achievement all year long.
By prioritizing this check-in you’ll be able to adapt and pivot as needed before something gets out of hand, and you’ll also always know that you’re doing things as a business owner that are truly authentic to you
Brand New Plan can help you plan your most authentic year as a business owner while making sure you’re staying completely aligned with your overall vision. Get all the details here.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
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Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
A Pivotal Approach to Adjusting Your Business Plans During the Year
I've always been a planner, perhaps too much so.
The rigidity of my plans used to make it challenging for me to adapt and change course when needed. As a recovering perfectionist, the idea of deviating from my perfectly crafted plans felt like a failure.
However, over the years I’ve discovered a more adaptable approach to planning which includes checking in with myself multiple times over the year.
In this episode, I'll share how I transitioned from rigid planning to a more flexible approach, introducing the concept of planning fluidity and my four-step strategy for successful pivoting.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
How pivoting is a strategic practice for seasoned entrepreneurs building an aligned business.
The 4-step process for checking in and pivoting every 90 days as a business owner.
The exact questions to ask yourself to better understand what’s required of you as a business owner in the next quarter so you end the year strong.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 102 now.
The Art of Pivoting: A Strategic Approach
My journey into a more flexible approach to planning began with the realization that crafting a rigid 12-month plan didn't necessarily set me up for success.
Last week, I shared this as one of the three mistakes entrepreneurs make when planning. I received numerous responses after expressing this viewpoint, which is why we’re diving into this topic today.
While I believe in having a vision for the year ahead, the emphasis on having the full 12 months completely mapped out isn’t necessary.
Instead, I encourage entrepreneurs to focus on 90 days at a time and embrace planning fluidity—a concept I'm currently teaching in my program, Brand New Plan.
This approach focuses on creating a strategy that allows for reassessment and adjustment without sacrificing long-term goals.
Pivoting is more than a spontaneous reaction; it's a strategy.
And, that strategy consists of a four-step process for successful pivoting, a method I've honed to navigate changes in my business while maintaining purpose and direction throughout the year.
The 4R Strategy: Adjusting Plans with Purpose
For a full dive into this strategy below, and the exact questions to ask yourself throughout the process, be sure to join Brand New Plan.
REVIEW: REFLECTING ON THE PAST
The goal is to perform this review every 90 days at the least, but performing it anytime something feels off can pay off in the long run.
This step involves analyzing key areas such as business revenue, sales, and overall insights into how things are going.
This step involves answering specific questions about the last few months:
How did the last 90 days go for my business, considering revenue and sales?
What specific changes or adjustments do I feel are necessary?
How am I progressing toward my end-of-year goal, and does it still align with my vision?
REFLECT: EMBRACING THE EMOTIONAL ASPECT
The next part of the process is balancing analytical review with emotional reflection, this step evaluates what's working and why, and what isn't and why not.
Recognizing how you’re feeling toward your business, and taking a deeper dive into the analytical information encourages a deeper understanding of your business as the creator and can play a role in consistency - which we all know is key to reaching our goals.
This step involves considering questions like:
What aspects of my business are working, and why do I believe they're successful?
What isn't working, and what emotional factors might be contributing to that?
How do I feel overall about my business and the priorities set for the quarter?
REGROUP: MAKING SENSE OF THE DATA
At this stage, you want to pull back and revisit your plans with the information you now have.
By acknowledging shifts and readjusting priorities for the upcoming 90 days, this phase guarantees a strategic approach to pivoting and will determine the actions you’ll take in the next quarter.
Consider the following questions when at this stage:
What does the review information tell me about my next 90 days?
How does my current trajectory align with my end-of-year goal?
Are there changes in my personal or business life that need consideration in the regrouping process?
REFRESH OR REVISE: STRATEGICALLY ADJUSTING PLANS
Now it’s time to strategically determine what’s needed. Are you ready for a little plan refresh or a complete revision?
This step is so powerful and breathes new life into strategies for continued success throughout the entire year. Aligning adjustments with the overarching end-of-year goal provides a strategic approach to adapting plans. This is the sweet spot to planning and when done every 90 days at the least can lead to a beautifully aligned brand and business.
This step involves asking questions like:
What adjustments can breathe new life into my strategy?
Are there specific elements that need to be released or revised?
Does my end-of-year goal still resonate with me, or does it require a significant revision?
Consistent Alignment Every 90 Days: Crafting an Aligned Business
Repeating the 4R strategy every 90 days, at minimum, ensures ongoing alignment with business goals.
Remember, pivoting isn't a sign of failure; it's a conscious decision to stay in alignment.
By consistently checking in, reflecting, and adjusting, you create a business that feels inspired and true to your vision.
As I invite you to adopt this four-part strategy, remember that you can have a feel-good business.
By focusing on planning fluidity, emotional reflection, and strategic adjustments, you empower yourself to build a business that aligns with your values and brings you joy.
Join me in this approach as you plan your next year in business, prioritizing flexibility, and consistent alignment. All the details about Brand New Plan are available here.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
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FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
Mastering Aligned Goal Setting for Your Business: 3 Mistakes to Avoid in the New Year
Are you already thinking about your business goals for the year ahead?
If so, you're not alone.
Planning is crucial for success, but it's equally important to avoid common mistakes that can affect your progress.
In this week’s podcast episode, I’ll share three key mistakes to avoid when planning for the new year. By steering clear of the same mistakes I’ve made in the past, you can create a more aligned and successful path for your business in the year ahead.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
Why planning on one day isn’t setting you up for success.
The missing link with vision boards and what to do instead.
Why I don’t recommend planning the full 12 months in business.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 101 now.
Mistake #1: Neglecting Pre-Planning Alignment
The Crucial Step That Often Gets Overlooked
The first mistake I've made, and perhaps you can relate to, is not taking enough time to pre plan. Rushing into goal setting without considering personal alignment often leads to setting goals that don't align with your true self.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to time to assess who you want to become, both as a person and an entrepreneur. Your business goals should complement your life, not detract from it.
This involves reflecting on your past experiences, identifying what has worked and what hasn't, and taking into account the season of life you’re currently in or entering. We all change year to year, and even month to month, so this pre-work is so important to make sure you’re on the most aligned path for you.
Mistake #2: Outdated Vision Boards
Creating Vision Boards Rooted in Identity
The second mistake to avoid relates to the oh-so-popular vision board, which often focus on materialistic goals. I've come to realize the importance of creating a vision board that connects with the feelings I want to embody as an entrepreneur.
My shift from a material-focused vision board last year led me to tapping into my desire to feel like an athlete again. This approach led to identifying activities and experiences that would make me feel the way I aspired to. It was a game changer.
While I’m a big fan of vision boards, it can often make you feel like a failure if you don’t acquire that one thing you’ve added, so focusing more on the emotional and identity-based aspects of your goals when creating vision boards can make you feel more empowered.
Mistake #3: The Downside of Planning 12 Months in Advance
Why Rigid 12-Month Plans Are No Longer Effective
The third mistake I've made is planning the entire year, down to the smallest details, in advance. This rigid approach often leads to frustration and disappointment when unforeseen changes occur. Instead, I now adopt and teach a more adaptable planning method.
I encourage you to create goals for the year as a whole, focusing on who you want to be at the end of the year, and then break down your goals into plans for only the first 90 days. This will allow you to assess you progress and adapt to changing circumstances as they come up. Life, as well as your priorities, can change over a year and by planning in smaller, more flexible chunks, you can better align your actions with your evolving identity and needs as an entrepreneur.
The Alternative: Authentically Aligned Planning
A New Approach to Goal Setting for Modern Entrepreneurs
I want to emphasize the importance of avoiding these common planning mistakes and embracing authentically aligned goal-setting as an entrepreneur. How you start your year can really set the tone for your success throughout the year.
It’s why I’ve created the 7-day planning course, Brand New Plan, to help entrepreneurs create goals and plans that fit their life.
The focus is on setting goals that resonate with your identity, values, and personal growth. I encourage you to adapt and update your plan every 90 days, ensuring that you remain true to yourself and your evolving priorities, which is something we emphasize inside of Brand New Plan and give you the structure to do so.
I'm excited to offer you the opportunity to join Brand New Plan so you can create a more successful and fulfilling path for our businesses in the year ahead.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
--
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
5 Business Lessons from a Brand Strategist with 7+ Years of Experience
In the world of business, we're all on a wild ride, and sometimes, it's the unexpected twists and turns that teach us the most.
It’s been two years since I launched the Brandmerry Podcast, and to celebrate the 100th episode, I’m diving into five crucial lessons I’ve learned over the past two years that can make your entrepreneurial journey smoother.
These lessons are the kind that can truly help us in our business adventures, learning from others is one of my favorite ways to grow as an entrepreneur. Let’s uncover some valuable insights that can make your entrepreneurial journey a bit less bumpy
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
The dangers of growing too fast and what the realizations I had when my business doubled in revenue.
The importance of alignment and how to embrace planning fluidity in the face of life’s uncertainties.
The art of working smarter and not harder to reach your goals
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 100 now.
Lesson One: The Power of Alignment in Business
In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, the concept of alignment has become increasingly crucial.
It's not just about setting goals; it's about aligning those goals with your authentic vision.
As a recovering perfectionist, I struggled with aligning my goals with my authentic self. It was easy for me to help others strategize and plan their business goals, but when it came to setting my own, I found it challenging. I often set goals based on what I thought I should be achieving, rather than what genuinely mattered to me.
In 2022, I had a moment of clarity. I realized that the goals I had been pursuing weren't my own; they were borrowed aspirations from others.
This revelation was a turning point in my entrepreneurial journey. I had strayed from what truly mattered to me, and it was time to realign with my authentic goals.
Setting goals should be a deeply personal and aligned process.
It's not just about picking a number or reverse engineering a plan. It's about understanding how you want to feel, what lifestyle you desire, and how your business fits into the bigger picture of your life.
Every decision and goal in your business should weave seamlessly into your personal life for a harmonious and fulfilling experience.
Lesson Two: Avoiding the Pitfalls of Rapid Growth
2020 brought significant growth for my business, doubling our revenue. It was an exciting time, and I started to set my sights on even grander goals, including reaching a million dollars in revenue.
However, as I learned, the appeal of rapid growth can come with hidden challenges.
One prevailing piece of advice I received was to build a team to achieve the million-dollar goal. I accepted this advice and started hiring, expanding my team to manage various aspects of my business.
I thought this was the path to growth. But soon, I realized that I was overwhelmed with managing a growing team and lost touch with what I truly loved: creating content and making an impact.
I had to ask myself if the rapid growth aligned with my vision for my business and life. The answer was a resounding "no."
I had fallen into the trap of following external advice without considering what truly mattered to me. It was a costly lesson, but it brought me back to what I valued most in my business: creativity and impact.
In a moment of clarity, I scaled back and redefined what it meant to be a CEO. I didn't need a large team to achieve my goals; I needed a few key people who aligned with my vision.
The lesson here is clear: growth should be meaningful, sustainable, and in line with your values. Don't rush to scale without considering the impact on your work-life balance and personal fulfillment.
Lesson Three: Work Smarter, Not Harder
The old belief "work hard to achieve success" has been deeply ingrained in our minds.
However, it's time to shift our perspective and start working smarter, not harder. Business ownership is about finding the balance between dedication and efficiency.
One key to working smarter is creating efficient systems. Templates, workflows, and AI tools can save you valuable time and energy. They allow you to focus on what you do best and delegate or streamline the rest.
As an entrepreneur, your creativity and content creation are essential. Embrace tools that help you maximize your productivity and creativity.
For example, I've recently started using AI tools to transcribe and format content, saving me significant time. These tools allow me to maintain my unique voice while reducing the time spent on tasks that can be automated.
It allows me to reach more people and get my brand out there without sacrificing my precious time.
Lesson Four: The Normalcy of Feeling Unmotivated
Feeling unmotivated is a common experience for entrepreneurs. You must understand that these phases are entirely normal and not a sign of failure.
The entrepreneurial journey is filled with highs and lows, and unmotivated periods are part of the game.
Rather than panicking or beating yourself up when motivation wanes, give yourself the space to step back and reflect. It's a natural part of the creative process. Use this time for self-care, and you'll often find that your motivation returns stronger than before.
I've learned to embrace these unmotivated phases as opportunities for rest and rejuvenation.
It's essential to take care of your physical and mental well-being during these times, as they can be a signal from your body to slow down and recharge.
Lesson Five: Embracing Planning Fluidity
In the face of life's inevitable twists and turns, it's essential to embrace planning fluidity.
The traditional, rigid approach to planning no longer serves the modern entrepreneur. Life will continue to happen, often unexpectedly, and your ability to adapt is crucial.
Planning fluidity means having a plan and a destination while remaining open and adaptable.
Life's challenges can be unpredictable, but how you react to them is within your control.
You don't have to abandon your goals when life throws a curveball; instead, adapt your plan to navigate those twists and turns. It's about maintaining your vision and being flexible about how you get there.
In the world of business, it's easy to fall into the trap of setting a strict plan and believing that any detour from it is a failure. But the reality is that life doesn't always follow our carefully crafted plans.
Unexpected events, personal challenges, and shifts in the market can disrupt even the most well-thought-out strategies.
That's where planning fluidity comes in. Instead of viewing unexpected changes as roadblocks, see them as opportunities for growth.
If your initial plan encounters turbulence, be prepared to adjust your course while keeping your ultimate destination in mind. This adaptability is a superpower for entrepreneurs and business owners, allowing you to stay resilient in the face of uncertainty.
Planning fluidity isn't about giving up on your dreams; it's about making your dreams a reality on your terms.
It's about staying true to your vision while being flexible in your approach.
So, as you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, remember that the road may be winding, but with planning fluidity, you can navigate any curve and reach your destination with authenticity and resilience.
CONCLUSION
Remember that entrepreneurship isn't about sticking to a rigid plan or following a one-size-fits-all formula. It's about adapting, growing, and staying true to yourself.
In the ever-changing world of business, it's the ability to pivot, learn from challenges, and keep moving forward that truly matters.
So, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, keep these lessons close to heart. Embrace the unexpected, find your authentic path, and know that you have the power to shape your own success.
Just like a road trip, there might be detours, pit stops, and even the occasional flat tire, but it's all part of the adventure. Stay true to your course, be open to change, and enjoy the ride. After all, the journey is what makes the destination worthwhile.
Ready to create a more adaptable approach to planning?
Learn more about Brand New Plan and how it can help you as an entrepreneur create goals authentic to you, as well as an action play you actually stick to.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
--
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
Elevate Your Brand with a Brand Photoshoot: Tips for DIY or Professional Photography
This past weekend, I had the pleasure of getting a brand photoshoot done, and every single time I have a session, it sparks a burst of inspiration that I absolutely love.
Brand photoshoots have been a consistent investment in my business for years, and the very first one changed the game for me.
Back in the early days of my business, I used whatever photos I had on hand and put them on my website. But I yearned to capture the essence of my brand, to showcase the deep dive I'd taken into my ideal customer, messaging, and the emotional aspects I wanted to convey to my ideal customer.
Photography is one of the most powerful ways to share your brand with the world. After that first transformative experience, I swore by brand photoshoots as one of the best investments for online branding.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, you’ll discover:
My top tips to prepare for a brand photoshoot, and what to do BEFORE you even start snapping pics.
Tips for performing a DIY photo session for your website or content
My top tips for finding a photographer that matches your brand!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 99 now.
Elevating Your Only Presence with Brand Photography
The initial investment in a brand photographer back in 2016 was intimidating. But, incredibly, that same photographer has been with me for seven years now, documenting the transformation I've undergone as the founder and CEO of Brandmerry.
Looking back at those photos, I've seen not only personal growth but also a surge in brand confidence. It's an invaluable asset as a brand owner, and I truly believe brand photography revolutionizes your online presence.
After my first brand photoshoot, I started using those photos in my marketing efforts, particularly in Facebook groups, where I was actively promoting my business at the time.
My brand photos stood out because of their unique, darker, and moody style, amidst the pink and Eiffel Tower-themed images flooding the platform. It was unintentional, but this distinctive style immediately elevated my engagement levels and set me apart.
Since that day I've been advocating for brand photography, even providing a free photo shoot guide on my website.
While my previous brand photoshoots were predominantly done outdoors to depict a freedom lifestyle, this time, I invited my photographer into our home. We've worked hard to make it our own, and it's where we spend most of our free time.
Our lifestyle has shifted from traveling the world and living in an RV to settling down, and this change in our lifestyle called for a different energy and presentation. As I prepared for this photoshoot, I began to think about how others could benefit from having fantastic photos for their businesses. You don't necessarily need to rush out and hire a photographer, though I believe they are an incredible investment.
Your brand photos have numerous applications across your website, social media, blogs, Pinterest, and more. The key is to have photos that capture your brand's essence at the moment, which can be shared online. The following tips are what helped me prepare for my most recent session.
Brand Photoshoot Tip #1: Understanding Your Brand
The most crucial aspect of a successful brand photoshoot, whether DIY or professional, is understanding your brand.
You need to have done the groundwork and the branding work to create a foundation for your photos. My signature branding process involves understanding your niche, ideal customer, messaging, signature offering, and emotional branding. All these elements are interconnected and contribute to creating outstanding photography that aligns with your brand.
Brand Photoshoot Tip #2: Finding Inspiration
To get into the right mindset for your photoshoot, it's essential to find inspiration. Inspiration serves a dual purpose, helping you envision your poses, backgrounds, colors, and props while also guiding your photographer (or friend) during the session.
I typically turn to Pinterest, starting with a broad search for brand photography and then narrowing it down based on the vibe I'm aiming for.
In my recent photoshoot, I wanted to capture my connection with nature and plants, an integral part of my life and brand. My search was focused on images featuring plants, nature, and inside my home, which helped me convey the emotions I wanted to evoke.
Brand Photoshoot Tip #3: Location Matters
The location you choose for your photoshoot plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and conveying your brand's emotions.
I prefer a single location for cohesiveness, and it helps me maintain a comfortable timeframe. In my most recent session, the location was our home, which perfectly aligned with my brand's essence.
Our home embodies the emotions I want my brand to convey - a welcoming, inviting space where people feel comfortable and valued. But the location choice should also match your brand and personality. Over the years, I've shot in different locations, from parks to lakes to forests, all of which align with different aspects of my brand and emotions.
Brand Photoshoot Tip #4: Curating Your Look and Props
Your clothing choices and props are essential for creating the right vibe in your photos. I prefer to keep my outfits simple, with solid colors that match my brand. The key is to stay true to your everyday style.
I typically aim for three different looks in a photoshoot, which provides versatility for my content over several months.
Regarding props, it's not necessary to go out of your way to buy new items. Incorporate elements that are already a part of your life, brand, or surroundings. The goal is to highlight authenticity. Using items such as hats, jackets, or even family members and pets can add a personal touch to your photos.
Brand Photoshoot Tip #5: Getting in the Right Vibe
Feeling comfortable and natural during your photoshoot is crucial. It's perfectly normal to feel nervous in front of the camera, but getting into the right vibe can make a world of difference.
During my most recent shoot, we made a conscious effort to set the stage. We baked bread, enjoyed coffee, played music, and had organic conversations with our photographer, Jay.
These simple actions transformed the energy of the photoshoot, making it a relaxed and enjoyable experience. We also played around with music, which added an extra layer of fun and authenticity to the photos. Remember, it's essential to let your true self shine through in your brand photography.
Going the DIY Brand Photoshoot Approach
If you're taking the DIY route, all these steps are still applicable.
You'll need to follow the same process to create photos that authentically represent your brand. Use movement, take a lot of photos, and don't worry if not every shot is perfect. The magic often lies in the in-between moments.
Smartphone cameras work perfectly well, and you don't need fancy equipment. When shooting your session try and take a series of photos, or create a video and pull stills from the video itself.
You can use various editing apps to enhance your photos if necessary. And remember, it's essential to stay true to your brand in your DIY photos, just as you would with professional shots.
Finding the Right Photographer for Your Brand Photoshoot
If you're considering a professional brand photoshoot, research is key; you must find a photographer whose style aligns with your brand and personality.
This is why it’s important to know your brand and the overall vibe you want your photos to convey BEFORE you start looking for a photographer. Knowing this will allow you to match your style with their portfolio.
You'll know when you find the perfect match. The same way you have defined how you want your audience to feel should be how you feel when looking at their previous work.
CONCLUSION
Brand photography is a game-changer for your online branding.
It helps you establish a powerful visual identity that resonates with your audience. Whether you choose the DIY approach or hire a professional, the critical factor is understanding your brand's essence and the emotions you want to convey.
With the right preparation, inspiration, location, and an authentic vibe, you can capture photos that genuinely represent your brand and set you apart in your niche.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
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Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.