Planning a photo shoot.
When you plan a photo shoot, you need to script it out ahead of time. The big difference between a good shoot and a great shoot is a shoot that has every detail possible worked out in advance.
Here’s how a great photo shoot develops.
1. Concept. Someone sits down and writes out a concept. It needs to be like a business plan and should include all aspects of the photo shoot.
2. Research. Collect several examples of the concept so you can share with your team.
3. Action plan. Should be on paper – how are you going to execute the concept. List any extra items you need to procure. Start to consider lighting. Pick a location.
4. Scout. Go out to your location and take photographs. Look for any impediments to your shoot – local regulations or permits. Areas of safety concerns. For studio shoots, consider layout, backgrounds and equipment needs.
5. Recruit. Pick your team. Choose a MUA, hairstylists, & wardrobe people, model & photographers, as well as art director & any assistants you’ll need.
6. Hold a meeting. Either teleconference or in person. Meet with the team and discuss the concept. Go over everyone’s role in the process and explain what you need. Share location and concept photos with all members of your team and discuss special needs
7. Reconfirm. A couple days in advance of your shoot, touch base with everyone involved and confirm they are still on board and on track. Check for any last minute snafu
8. Work the photo shoot. Keep everyone on task and refer to the concept photos from time to time.
9. After action wrap up. Sit down and make notes about what went right and what went wrong. Add the items you missed to your todo list for the next photo shoot and learn from your mistakes. A note here. If other people on the team made mistakes, list them for yourself so YOU can learn better and next time be proactive in your planning.
10. Followup. Let people know they did a great job. This isn’t the time to list mistakes they made. It’s time to thank them for their hard work and ask them to let you know if they’d work with you again.