5 Top Must Haves on how to plan for a professional photoshoot
I’ve had the pleasure of working with amazing and seasoned professional photographers, and in my experience, they are worth every dollar. I respect their expertise, as their photographs have been invaluable in shaping my clients’ marketing materials, including websites, brochures, magazine ads, and social media.
A helpful checklist for anyone who hires a professional photo shoot.
This checklist is for anyone planning to hire a professional photographer. With hundreds of hours on both sides of the camera, I’ve learned some valuable lessons. Some insights weren’t obvious at first but would have made each project smoother if I had known them sooner. And in this business, time is money.
Here’s a helpful guide for planning a professional photoshoot. I hope it saves you both time and headaches.
The Basics
- Trust Your Photographer — You chose them based on their portfolio, recommendations, and reputation. They want to do a great job as much as you do.
- Express Your Vision — Don’t hesitate to voice your needs. If you want to light a candle in the room or adjust a wardrobe piece, it’s better to ask early than to regret it later.
- Plan for Extra Time — Unexpected lighting changes, technical issues, staging needs, and people coordination are common. Give yourself more time than you think you’ll need.
- Stay Hydrated — Photo shoots are physically demanding. Have plenty of cool water on hand for you and your team, as you’ll likely be on your feet, moving props, and adjusting settings for long hours.
- Prepare for Imperfections — Not every shoot will go as planned. Learn to work with what’s available, even if flowers don’t arrive or staff members are absent. Sometimes, things like weather or unanticipated delays happen.
Expectations & Deliverables
- Clarify Your Needs — Will you need access to all images for future decisions, or only a select few? Know in advance what’s included.
- Understand Your Package — Are you paying for a set number of images, specific hours on-site, or something else? Make sure you’re clear.
- Discuss Changes — If you need to adjust the concept or subjects, know how that will impact time and costs.
- Determine Image Access — Are you receiving all photos taken or a selection of your favorites? It’s good to have clarity here.
- Provide or Plan for Food — Will you need to arrange lunch for the photographer and staff, or will they handle their own meals?
- Confirm Payment Terms — Know whether the photographer requires partial payment upfront, payment in full, or payment upon delivery.
- Set Backup Dates — Discuss alternative dates if outdoor or natural lighting is essential.
People - Individual and Groups
- Watch for Wrinkles — Ensure clothing is smooth and fitted to avoid editing wrinkles in post-production.
- Experiment with Expressions — Aim for variety in expressions. Feeling the emotion shows up in the final images.
- Consider a Stylist — Flyaway hair and shiny skin are best managed on-site rather than in post.
- Bring Wardrobe Options — Pack 3–4 shirts, jackets, ties, or scarves. A simple color change can make a big impact.
- Plan Ample Time for Group Shots — Group shots need space and multiple takes, with about 3–5 shots per person to ensure usable combinations.
Interior Room Shots
- Find the Right Angle — You may need to open a door or position yourself in a tight corner to capture the best angle.
- Balance Light Sources — Multiple shots using varied lighting can create a perfectly balanced image. Experiment with gels, spotlights, umbrellas, and black cloth for desired effects.
- Focus on Details — Carefully review test shots. Small adjustments to room decor can improve the shot. Proper spacing and alignment are key.
- Edit or Add Accessories — Consider adding or removing elements, like flowers or books, to enhance the feel of the image. Often, less is more.
- Have an Assistant — A second pair of eyes can help spot issues you might miss, like uneven window treatments or misplaced objects.
Photographers I Work With
Personal & Portrait
Laura Pedrick of Pedrick Photo knows her subjects. She has an excellent eye and is fully aware of how the light hits her subject. From large crowds to my dog by my side… Laura works with her space in either editorial or personal shots.
Kasey Ivan Photography – I love Kasey’s aesthetics in his outdoor shots and use of lighting and personal expression. Kasey brings out the mood and feelings of the subjects. He also has a unique and hip approach to personal photography ranging from formal to promotional shots.
Interior & Architectural
I can not say enough good things about my experience with Barry Halkin of Halkin Mason Photography. He’s got a great eye for detail, is able to capture any space no mater how tight, has solid integrity and the patience of a saint. And his work is beautiful. He can make a cardboard box look like a gold-plated treasure chest.