7 Ways to Prep Like a Pro for Photoshoot Success

Ever heard the saying “Two heads are better than one?” 

You *may* have heard, I’ve just partnered with Toast Represents the totally awesome talent agency for foodie photographers like me! So, I decided to get together with agency founder, Harriett Wrate, to share our top tips on how to prep like a pro whatever the photoshoot. 

Having a great photo session isn’t about just booking a kick-ass photographer (although obviously that helps) but it’s about prepping like a pro. Whether you’re a marketeer, creative or agency, making sure you’re organised and ready to go is top of the list for ensuring a successful photoshoot. 

Want to know more? Check out these prep-tastic pointers from Harriett and I! 

1. Be Clear on the Brief 

 Always start with the brief! Getting into the nitty-gritty of the purpose of the shoot and what you want the outcome to be, is key to getting kick-ass photos. Thinking upfront about the concept, context and call to action, will all shape how the shoot is put together from the beginning. Despite what they say, one size does not fit all, so maximising the creative clout of the shoot starts with the brief. Save yourself a load of time (and stress) by prepping for powerful, on-brief photography from the start. I promise you won’t regret it! 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “Get everyone together for a pre-production meet-up or Zoom call, to have a walk through and agree the parameters of the brief. For a successful photoshoot, clear communication and established roles are essential. It’s important to define the requirements, purposes, and goals for the shoot and to establish everyone’s role in the process. Where possible, sending product samples in advance, allows the team to become familiar with the product and to address any concerns or questions beforehand. By doing this, potential issues can be identified, and solutions can be implemented in advance, avoiding any problems during the shoot.” 

2. Create a Comprehensive Shot List 

I love a list, but I really LOVE a shot list. It makes life so much more manageable especially when it comes to prepping for a photoshoot. No matter what the style of the shoot is, a shot list separates the must-take photos from the nice-to-have photos. No-one wants to finish the shoot to suddenly realise that in the hustle and bustle they forgot the photo for the new campaign or website launch *eek*. When pulling together a shot list, I always advise my clients to be realistic about what we can shoot in a day. Pulling together beautiful looking dishes or recipes can take time. Ensure this is built into the schedule too. Having your photo priorities straight at the get-go allows you to avoid photo failure and prep perfectly! 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “As well as a shot list, be clear if you require variations on a particular shot and be prepared for a prompt sign-off. We won’t be able to move on to the next shots until we receive your approval, so timely decision-making is greatly appreciated, it makes the shoot run smoothly and enables us to maximise what we can produce for you in a day.” 

3. Be Respectful of Timings 

Like most people, I’m not at my best if I’m hungry or immersed in a stressful shoot. Having a time to break-away from the lens, catch a breath and check-in on progress is the perfect way to prep for a positive happy shoot! Having a call sheet that pins down the order of the day, allows for breaks and breathing space, is important. When everyone is on the same page (literally) we can make sure creativity flows to the max. Hooray! 

Harriet’s Top Tip: “A call sheet is an essential tool for ensuring that a photoshoot runs smoothly and successfully. It provides essential information to the crew, helps to avoid confusion, and ensures everyone knows what is expected. It better prepares the team for the shoot, reducing the likelihood of delays or issues that could impact the quality of the final product.” 

4. Consider Outfits 

If you’re going to be in the photos (or have models) then planning outfits ahead of time might seem obvious, but there is *so* much scope to get it horribly wrong. Whilst comfort is key, knowing what you are trying to portray can also influence the style of clothing you opt for. Photographers are pretty good at knowing what looks good in certain lighting, what textures really “pop” on camera and what works (or clashes) with your brand colours. Don’t be afraid to reach out for advice - especially if you’re feeling a little confused. Agreeing outfits in advance certainly helps avoid fashion failures on set… 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “When preparing for a shoot, agents and producers usually advise sending photos of desired outfits beforehand. Ensure that garments are clean, pressed, and properly fitted for the day. It’s also a good idea to bring alternative options, so you have more flexibility and choice. And don’t forget, if hands feature in the shoot, then make sure nails and cuticles are clean and neat, and avoid any fancy acrylics or patterns if they’re not part of the plan!” 

5. Always Think About Props 

Props might be accessories, but boy do they matter. Creating a vibe means that all the little things you have in the shot, when put together, help you tell the story. Props help you create context - especially when combined with your colour choice and backdrop. My top tip is to be clear on what props are needed and who is bringing them. You’d be surprised how many people assume someone else has it covered. So, do your prop-prep and confirm who is bringing what! Making sure you don’t forget the little things, like the nice-looking pen for the notebook, means you’ll be prop-erly kitted out. 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “Hiring a props stylist can significantly improve the end result of your shots and add value to your media and advertising. While it may come at an extra cost, it’s highly recommended to improve the value of your advertising. If a stylist isn’t necessary, work closely with your creative team to determine the necessary props, agree on responsibilities, themes, expectations, and budget for purchases. It’s important not to assume that the photographer will provide the props, although they may be willing to assist if needed.” 

6. Be Informed on Usage 

Prepping the T&Cs of your usage contract is a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how often this can trip people up. Make sure you’re 100% clear on the copyrights and permissions surrounding your photos. Commissioning photography does not mean you own it. When agreeing the terms of your contract make sure to include where you plan to use the imagery and for how long. It goes without saying that prepping the fine print is something you really don’t want to get wrong! 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “It’s important to note that when booking a photoshoot for your brand, it is not typical to have full rights and ownership of the media produced. Most photographers offer limited usage rights, often lasting 6 to 12 months within a few agreed-upon mediums. Extending usage rights beyond the initial agreement can be costly, so it’s essential to consult with your team and come to an agreement that best fits your needs.” 

7. Know Where You Are Going 

Sometimes it’s the simple things that get overlooked. Yes, pinning down that brief and sourcing that “perfect” prop are important, but if on the day of the shoot, people are late, lost or unable to attend, it kind of puts the kybosh on any photo productivity. Make sure that everyone from the models to the make-up-artists know where they need to be (address) and have a number to call if they’re encountering travel difficulties. Prepping for potential on-the-day hiccups means if they happen, they’re much easier (and quicker) to handle. 

Harriett’s Top Tip: “Clear instructions on the location are crucial to avoid any issues during the shoot. Make sure to provide landmarks, double-check postcodes in advance, and advise the team to set off early. Also, be aware of roadworks, public transport issues, and weather conditions, and prepare solutions in case of any issues. Encourage everyone to check the *call sheet* and seek advice if they encounter any travel issues. Consider overnighting locally if your residence is not within the same city. I also like to include a visual reference of the location and any special access instructions.”

Planning a photo shoot and diving into the details doesn’t have to be a complicated or difficult process, but it does take time. If you think that you could do with an extra pair of hands to help your planning process or maybe some expert advice to help you nail that brief, then working with an agency like Toast Represents can take all the stress, guesswork and prep out of photoshoot success. If you’d like more info, then why not drop Harriett or me a line? Harriett@toastrepresents.co.uk. 

Georgie x