By Lucie Wicker, Lucie Wicker Photography
When you think about planning a photoshoot, you probably imagine scouting locations, choosing outfits, or making sure your hair looks perfect. Yes, those things matter but the real make-or-break details often live in the less obvious places. After years of photographing fitness and wellness pros, I’ve seen how these three factors can completely change the outcome of a photoshoot (and they might not be what you think).
You could have the trendiest outfit, the perfect hair style, and a beautifully curated space but if you show up to your shoot frazzled or stressed, it will show up in your photos. Energy translates. Clients often tell me their favorite images are the ones where they feel like themselves, relaxed, laughing, or in flow. The trick? Give yourself breathing room on shoot day. Don’t stack it between five other commitments. Hydrate. Play music you love on the way. Walk in with calm confidence, and your photos will radiate it.
Pro tip: Your audience doesn’t want perfect, they want real. If your vibe is authentic, your photos will instantly connect.
Many people think a brand photoshoot is just you standing in front of a nice wall. But the magic happens when you bring in the subtle details that connect what you do with who you are. For a yoga instructor, it might be a mat, blocks, and plants to set the scene. For a trainer, it could be kettlebells, ropes, or even your favorite notebook where you write client programs.
These little elements give context to your brand and help potential clients instantly understand your world. Skip them, and your photos might look generic. Add them, and suddenly you’ve got scroll-stopping, story-rich imagery.
Here’s something most people don’t realize: the best brand shoots aren’t just about creating one killer headshot. They’re about producing a versatile library of images you can use across your website, social media, newsletters, and promotions. That means planning for variety with different angles, poses, outfits, and settings.
When you think ahead about what you’ll need in the next 6–12 months (new class launch? event promos? holiday specials?), you’ll walk away with photos that work overtime for you instead of ones you burn through in a week.
Pro tip: Before your shoot, make a quick list of the platforms you use most. Instagram banners? Website hero images? Email headers? Your photographer can shoot with those crops and formats in mind.
Your photoshoot success isn’t about perfection! It's about preparation, presence, and personality. Show up with good energy, tell your story with the right details, and plan for versatility. Those three things will take your photos from “nice pictures” to magnetic brand assets.
Lucie Wicker is the owner of Lucie Wicker Photography, which specializes in empowering fitness, wellness, and active lifestyle brands through bold, story-driven content that captivates, connects, and converts. Learn more about Lucie here.