Some brand photoshoots are about getting a new headshot.
This wasn’t one of them.
When Shannon, founder of The Prospect Project, filled out her branding questionnaire, I knew we weren’t creating “safe” content.
This is the woman who casually admitted she believes Tupac might still be alive and has an irrational fear of clowns.
Immediately? My people.
Because the brands people remember are never built by people trying to fit in.
They’re built by women who lean all the way into who they are.
And Shannon has built an entire business doing exactly that.
More Than Candles. More Than Perfume.
If you’ve ever received one of my client gifts, chances are you’ve already experienced Shannon’s work.
She’s the incredible human behind the custom candles I gift my clients, but that’s only scratching the surface.
Through The Prospect Project, Shannon creates custom fragrances, hosts perfume workshops, builds beautiful experiences and has donated more than $150,000 to charities and causes she genuinely cares about.
People don’t just buy her products, they buy into her world (and stick around ‘cos she’s a damn good time)
And that’s exactly what great branding should do.
The Creative Concept: A Wealthy Widow Starting Her Next Chapter
Every now and then a client walks in with a concept that makes me internally scream, “YES.”
Shannon’s brief?
A wealthy widow entering her next era.
Think…
- Black lace veil.
- Oversized sunglasses.
- Dramatic gowns.
- Old-world Italian mansion.
- Mysterious energy.
- “Did husband number four disappear under suspicious circumstances?” vibes.
Was anyone harmed during this photoshoot?
Only our ability to ever settle for boring branding again.
Why Storytelling Always Wins
The biggest mistake I see business owners make?
They think branding photography is simply documenting what they do.
Holding the laptop and smiling at the camera. An empty coffee mug in hand.
Yawn.
Look I’m more than happy to get some of these shots, I am. But I want you to consider your personality, your story, your vibe.
Because people connect with stories long before they connect with products.
Shannon doesn’t just sell amazing smelling candles, she sells nostalgia.
And Luxury, Creativity. Curiosity, Connection.
And of course a little bit of mystery. And who doesn’t need a bit of mystery in their boring ass lives?!
Every location, outfit, expression and prop in this brand shoot was chosen to support that feeling.
Because when your photos evoke emotion, people stop the dreaded doom scrolling.
Four Looks. One Brand.
OneOne of my fav things about this photoshoot is how much variety we created without losing Shannon’s identity.
We captured:
- Bold editorial fashion moments worthy of a magazine spread.
- Soft, feminine portraits.
- Moody black-and-white imagery with cinematic energy.
- Dramatic interiors.
- Playful, colourful images full of personality.
Every gallery I deliver is designed to give clients months (sometimes years) of content that never feels repetitive.
Whether Shannon is launching a new scented candle, announcing a workshop, sharing a charity campaign or simply showing up online, she now has imagery that fits every version of her brand.
Your Brand Doesn’t Need to Look Like Everyone Else’s
The businesses people remember usually have one thing in common.
They’re willing to be a little weird and a little bold and unexpected.
Shannon could have booked a white studio, worn a blazer and held a candle.
Instead, she built a fictional character, stepped fully into it and created imagery that people won’t forget.
That’s the difference between taking photos…
…and building a brand people can’t stop talking about.
Ready for Your Own Iconic Brand Photoshoot?
If your current brand photos feel like they could belong to literally anyone, it might be time to create something with a little more personality.
Your business has a story so let’s make sure your photos tell it.
Belle V. 🤟
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