Some branding sessions just flow… and this one? Total dreamscape energy from start to finish
I recently had the joy of photographing an interior designer whose work is equal parts thoughtful, elevated, and effortlessly livable. We captured her branding session inside a Lexington, MA home where she designed the entire main living level… and honestly, it was the perfect real-life backdrop to tell her brand story.
From the very beginning, this shoot was shaped with intention, and it all started with the planning consultation.
The Power of the Planning Session (aka where the magic begins)
During our pre-shoot consultation, she shared one word that guided everything we did next: dreamy.
Not stiff.
Not overly polished.
But soft, inviting, and lived-in, like a home you want to sink into and stay awhile.
This is exactly why I’m such a believer in branding consultations. Before a single camera comes out, we talk through:
- How you want your brand to feel
- Where your images will actually live (website, Instagram, press, video, etc.)
- What parts of your process or personality deserve the spotlight
That clarity shapes every decision. From location to wardrobe to how I guide movement during the shoot. In this case, it allowed us to create imagery that feels calm, intentional, and completely aligned with her design philosophy.
Shooting Inside Her Designed Space = Instant Storytelling
The Lexington home we photographed was bright, layered, and beautifully balanced warm textures, and thoughtful details everywhere you looked. Because Melanie designed the space herself, the shoot instantly felt authentic.
We leaned into:
- Natural light pouring through the kitchen and living spaces
- Soft movement like adjusting pillows, arranging florals, styling surfaces
- Those in-between moments that feel real and relaxed
Instead of “posing,” the session felt more like a day-in-the-life of a designer at work. And that’s exactly what makes branding photos feel approachable and trustworthy.
Doubling Down on Content: Photo + Video
Because she wanted equal parts photography and video, I brought in my friend and collaborator, Emily Kim, to capture video alongside me. This allowed us to:
- Capture movement without rushing
- Get beautiful behind-the-scenes energy
- Create video clips that feel just as intentional as the photos
If you’ve ever wondered how brands manage to show up consistently with both images and video… this is how. Planning ahead and building the right team makes all the difference.
The Result: Dreamy, Elevated, and Totally Her
The final gallery feels soft yet confident. Styled but never stiff. Professional without losing warmth.
These are the kinds of images that work hard for a brand:
- Website refresh? ✔️
- Social media content for months? ✔️
- Press features and collaborations? ✔️
And none of it felt forced, because we let the brand lead the way.
A Little Takeaway (If You’re Planning Your Own Branding Shoot…)
If you’re an entrepreneur or creative thinking about branding photos, here’s my gentle nudge: don’t skip the consultation.
Your shoot isn’t just about pretty images, it’s about strategy, clarity, and intention. When we take the time to plan first, the camera day becomes easier, more fun, and so much more aligned with where you’re headed.
Dreamy included
If you’re ready to create branding imagery that actually feels like you, I’d love to help you shape it, from the very first conversation.
📍 Location: Lincoln, MA
🗂 Specialty: Home Interior Design
📲 Find Her Online: www.pellegrinidesignllc.com
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