Group and team photos can be complex to coordinate, but they don’t have to be painful! Choose a photographer who also acts as a guide to help you make decisions on everything from wardrobe/attire to locations to time of day. You can get great team and group photos with a little guidance from a professional. And group and team photos for businesses don’t have to be stuffy or boring.

Cue my How-To Guide for Successful Team Photos! Here are my best curated tips and advice for your next team or group branding photoshoot. You’ll look and feel your best, come prepared, and actually get to relax and enjoy the process. I offer photography services rooted in strategy, and my services include a planning meeting beforehand, so that you get the most out of your team photoshoot. As a client, you’ll also get access to my private Client Resources page. Ask me for more details!

Here are my top tips:

1. Coordinate, Don’t Match Your Outfits: No need to all show up in the exact same top and pants! Consider your brand colors and coordinating color palette. Consider the level of formality that fits your brand (casual vs business casual vs formal). Select outfits that pair together, but avoid being matchy-matchy. For more specific advice based on your brand, reach out to me while planning your session with me!
2. Plan Buffer Time: Due to the size of teams and groups, it’s best to ALWAYS leave extra buffer time! Time to change outfits, add accessories, do some last minute prep, and show up and coordinate outfits on the day-of.
3. Steam and Try-on Ahead of Time: Get that wardrobe looking picture perfect BEFORE the day of your photo session. Try items on to ensure fit, and coordinate your dry cleaning or pressing a few days in advance. Give yourself a few minutes the day prior to steam, iron, or do any final touches. Choose shoe options and accessories. And yes, feel free to bring backup outfits!
4. Hydrate, Rest, and be Prepared: Bring water, snacks, and make sure you’re prepared ahead of time for whatever length of session you have booked. If it falls over lunch especially, be sure to plan ahead and have some snacks or lunch provided for your team. And don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s rest in the day or two prior to your session to look well-rested and fresh.
5. Take Advice and Ask Questions: If you hire a professional photographer, they will be helping you pose and group up! Share your ideas, a Pinterest board, or poses beforehand as well, so that you have a shared vision for the photos. When in doubt, ask questions! Don’t know what to do with your hands? Not sure what is the best angle? You’re not alone, just ask your photographer.

Of course there’s also the outfits, the hair and makeup, and the look you’re going for. I talk about those topics in my other posts here, here, and here. In addition, you can find tips for your photoshoot vision board and planning here.