Planning a photoshoot can seem easy, but there are several points to consider to make it epic. With these steps I'm sharing, you'll be able to organize yourself in the best way and achieve that amazing content you're looking for. Whether you're putting together a production for a brand, a special event, or simply want to generate content for yourself, this guide will be very helpful.
1. Define a moodboard of what you want to achieve
The first thing you need to do is clarify the style you want for the production. Create a moodboard with reference images that inspire you and reflect the aesthetic you are looking for. You can use Pinterest or make a collage with magazine cutouts (super oldschool, but if you like crafts, I recommend it). The idea is that it serves as a visual guide throughout the process and that you can also align this moodboard with the other people who will be part of the photoshoot.
2. Select the team of people you'll need
A good photoshoot or production cannot be done alone. You need a team to support you. Depending on the magnitude of the project, you may need:
- A photographer
- A makeup artist
- A stylist
- Production assistants
- A model
This step is key and goes hand in hand with the next point.
3. Find the perfect location
The location is crucial, and depending on what type of content you're looking for, it can be the most important step. Here, pay attention to the following:
a. Consider lighting as a key factor: Natural light is always a great option, but if you're going to work indoors, make sure the place has good lighting or prepare a set of lights. You can ask the owner of the space if it has good lighting, at what times the sun hits, or if they provide equipment like flashes so that light is not an impediment when doing your shoot.
b. The amount of hours you will have the space available: Plan how much time you will need to avoid setbacks and coordinate well with the owner of the location. It often happens that you thought 2 hours would be enough, but that was not the case — for this, it's key to schedule the people who will be part of the photoshoot 30 to 15 minutes before the production starts. There are spaces that have a lot of turnover and it's important to be precise with timings; consider the time it takes to set up lights and prepare the space.
c. Items you will need: Make a list of everything you will need on set: backdrops, furniture, accessories, decorations, etc. Make sure the chosen space has everything necessary or that it is easy to transport to the location. With SpacePal, you have a chat feature that simplifies everything. There you can ask the owner of the space anything you want, from whether there are two-prong outlets to whether there is an elevator to bring a three-seater couch upstairs.
4. Align expectations with the team
It is essential that you have clear expectations and objectives. Talk to everyone involved to understand what they expect and communicate what you expect. If you are working for a brand, it’s important to define what messages they want to convey and any specific requirements they may have requested. This will avoid misunderstandings and ensure that the final result meets expectations. Be as transparent as possible.
5. Day of the shoot
The day of the session has arrived, and it’s important that everything is well organized, but if you followed the previous steps, you’ve already done the heavy lifting. Make sure you have a clear schedule and that the entire team is aware of their roles and responsibilities. Don’t forget to bring basic items like water, snacks, chargers, extra batteries, and anything else that may be needed. No one likes having to run out to buy or find something urgently in the middle of the production.
6. Post production
Once the session is over, it’s time for post-production or editing. I think this point deserves a separate note, but a key tip: remember to maintain consistency with the moodboard and the initial vision.
7. Delivery
Finally, it's time to deliver the work, the best part. Whether it's your own content or for a brand/client, ask for feedback. It's key to avoid bias. If it’s a delivery for a client, give them a chance to review the material to ensure they're satisfied with the outcome.
I hope this guide is helpful for planning your next photoshoot. Good luck, and may the shots pour in!