What to Splurge on for Your Brand Photos

Investing in high quality details can make all the difference in your brand photos. While not everything needs to be high end, some items are worth splurging on because they elevate your images and create a polished, professional look. Here are the key things to invest in for your brand session to ensure your photos look their best.

*Please note: not everything mentioned in this post needs to break the bank. Splurging doesn’t always have to refer to money, in our book; it can mean to dedicate time, thought, and patience to. If investing in some of the items below are not within your monetary budget for a brand session, we are all about being thrifty and smart to obtain items and props. Sure, it will take more time to find the items, so that’s where you’re deciding if you’d like to spend more time or money on sourcing your items. If you’re opting to spend more time than money sourcing items, we like thrift stores, resale shops, trades with creative professionals, borrowing items from friends, and creative means for building your inventory for your session, in order to achieve the vision you’re going for in your photos.

Professional Fresh Florals

Florals instantly add life and sophistication to brand photos. Whether you are using a simple bouquet, styled arrangements, or greenery, high-quality florals make a big impact. Avoid artificial flowers or grocery store bouquets— investing in fresh, well-styled blooms elevates the entire aesthetic.

High-Quality Clothing

Your wardrobe plays a huge role in how polished your brand images feel. We will always recommend investing in working with a professional wardrobe stylist. Investing in well-fitting, high-quality clothing ensures you look professional and put-together. Avoid fast fashion pieces that wrinkle easily or look worn after a few washes. Choose pieces in solid colors or subtle patterns that complement your brand aesthetic.

Beautiful Books and Samples

If your brand involves showcasing books, swatches, or product samples, high-quality versions make a difference. Leather-bound notebooks, design coffee table books, or custom-branded product samples elevate the visual appeal of your photos. Think about what will be in the frame— well-chosen materials create a refined look.

Thoughtful Desk Props

Your workspace setup should feel intentional. Investing in high-end desk props like a sleek laptop stand, stylish notebooks, or a beautiful pen can make your photos feel polished rather than cluttered. Avoid cheap plastic office supplies and opt for elegant materials like wood, brass, or acrylic.

High-End Vessels and Serveware

If your brand photos involve food, beverages, or styled objects, the vessels you use matter. Invest in ceramic mugs, glass drinkware, handmade pottery, or minimalist plates instead of mass-produced plastic items. These details add depth and texture to your images.

Stylish Shoes

Even if shoes are not the main focus of your brand session, they can still show up in full-body or lifestyle shots. Worn-out sneakers or casual flip-flops can take away from the polished feel of your images. Investing in a great pair of shoes that align with your brand style is a small but impactful upgrade.

Professional Hair and Makeup

Hiring a professional hair and makeup artist ensures you look your best on camera. A skilled artist knows how to enhance your features while keeping your look natural and polished. DIY makeup can sometimes appear flat or uneven in photos, so this is an area where professional expertise is worth the investment.

Why Splurging on the Right Things Matters

Brand photos are a long-term investment in your business, and the details in your images contribute to the overall perception of your brand. Splurging on key items ensures your photos feel polished, cohesive, and aligned with your brand aesthetic. If you are unsure what will make the biggest impact, your brand photographer can help guide you toward the right choices.