How to get the best results from your shoot

How to Get Ready for Your Photoshoot

Preparing for a photoshoot can be exciting and a bit daunting. Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your session and ensure we capture the perfect images for your needs.

The Ultimate Commercial Photoshoot Checklist

1. Wardrobe & Styling

[ ] Clean and Pressed: Ensure all outfits are steamed or ironed and on hangers. Wrinkles love high-res cameras.
[ ] Brand Alignment: Choose colours that complement your brand palette. Avoid super intricate patterns (like tiny stripes), which can cause a weird visual distortion on screen called moiré.
[ ] Options, Options, Options: Bring 2–3 alternative outfits or layers (blazers, jackets, accessories) so we can change up the look quickly.
[ ] Appropriate Footwear: Even if it’s a headshot, bring the right shoes just in case we pivot to a full-body angle.

2. Grooming & Touch-Ups

[ ] Hair & Makeup: If you aren’t using our on-site HMUA (Hair and Makeup Artist), arrive with your hair and makeup camera-ready. Aim for a slightly more defined look than your everyday wear, as studio lights can soften details.
[ ] Shine Control: Bring translucent powder, blotting papers, or oil-absorbing sheets. Studio lights get warm!
[ ] Hands and Nails: Clean, manicured nails are a must—especially if you'll be holding products or gesturing.

3. Products & Brand Assets

[ ] Hero Products: If we are shooting your products, bring the "hero" items—the absolute flawless, scratch-free, pristine versions.
[ ] Props & Tech: Pack any laptops, tablets, notebooks, or industry-specific tools you want featured in the background or in your hands.
[ ] Remove the Clutter: If we are shooting at your office, ensure desks are clear of stray papers, tissues, or unbranded coffee mugs.

4. Logistics & Timeline

[ ] Arrive 15 Minutes Early: Traffic happens. Arriving early gives you time to settle in, grab a coffee, and decompress before stepping in front of the lens.
[ ] Location Details: We have street parking which is free for 3h with a Disk Zone.
[ ] The Shot List: Review our agreed-upon mood board or shot list one last time so we are completely aligned on the goals.

Pro-Tip for the Day of: The best thing you can bring to the set is good energy! Trust the process, don't worry about "knowing how to pose" (that's my job to guide you), and let's have some fun with it.

Understand Your Requirements

Simply handing over a list of required photos without context isn't helpful. Knowing how you plan to use your photos ensures I select the right equipment for the job. Cameras, lens settings, and styles can vary greatly depending on the desired look, feel, and format.

Get Creative with Examples

Consider putting together a mood board full of ideas, or include some example photographs you like. These don’t have to be images of the same products or services; they can be stock imagery that reflects a particular style or lighting effect you prefer. Don’t forget to include examples of images you don’t like, too. This helps avoid any misalignment with your brand’s image. Use Pinterest to aggregate inspiration images and share them with your photographer.

What to Include in Your Photography Brief

Providing detailed information helps ensure the final images meet your expectations. Here’s what to include:

Clear Goals: Write down what you hope to achieve with your photography project. Are you highlighting a new product range, inspiring colleagues, or boosting brand awareness?
Context: Mention where you plan to use the photographs and the purpose of each one. This could be for blog posts, PR announcements, or a specific marketing campaign.
Brand Guidelines: Share any brand guidelines you have, including specific fonts, colours, and phrases that describe your company. This helps ensure the photography accurately reflects your brand.
Emotional Impact: Think about how you want people to feel when they see your images. Should they feel inspired, happy, or confident? Consider the emotive side to project the right image.

Avoid a One-Dimensional List

A simple list of required photos without explanation is not effective. Understanding the intended use of the photos helps me select the right equipment and settings. We can discuss your needs and and I will gather all the information to create your compete Action Plan.

Share Your Brand Guidelines

Providing your brand guidelines, including specific fonts, colours, and terminology, helps ensure the photos align with your brand. This context can inspire creative ideas for props and colours to include in the shoot.

Consider the Location

Think about where you want the photos to be taken. If it’s a building or interior space, this is straightforward. For corporate headshots or team images, consider the available space and how it aligns with your brand’s image.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your photoshoot, and we’ll be able to capture the perfect images that meet your goals and expectations. Let’s create something amazing together!