Over the years I can’t count how many styled shoots I have planned and been a part of. While we don’t see quite as many styled shoots taking place now I still believe they are such a great tool for building up your portfolio and networks.
Here are 5 key steps to take when planning a Styled Shoot:
Work out the purpose of the shoot
You need to have a clear purpose on why you are doing the shoot. Not only are they time consuming they can also become quite costly. It’s important to work out exactly what you hope to achieve from the shoot. For example, are you hoping to have the shoot featured or is your focus to create some amazing content for your Social Media/Website?
Create a Theme/Concept
Just like planning a wedding your shoot needs to have a clear style and theme. Don’t just look at what others are doing in the industry but consider what is going to work best with your brand and aesthetic.
Put together a Mood Board
Head to Pinterest and put all your ideas for the shoot together on a mood board. This can help you to visualise the direction you are heading in with the shoot and it can also help you recognise if there is a particular image not working well with the rest of the design elements. Pin a variety of different images – from the colour palette, dress style to the table set up and venue.
Source Vendors
When you are starting out your vendor network might not be well established which can make sourcing vendors for a shoot a little more difficult. My advice is not to contact the best vendors in your local area but the best vendors for your shoot. This will be someone who you know you can work with, someone who shares a similar style to you and someone who understands your purpose for the shoot and the outcome you are hoping to achieve. Meet with your vendors first and discuss all your plans to make sure they are on the same page before asking for them to collaborate with you.
Have a clear and detailed plan for the day
This is where your organisation and planning skills come in. Styled shoots can quickly run over time and when you are working with so many vendors you really need to be respectful of everyone’s time and their commitment to collaborate on the shoot with you. Ensure that everything is set up prior to your models and photographer arriving. Make sure you have a very specific timeline for each part of the day. I would even go as far as putting together a list of key photos you would like the photographer to capture, this way nothing is missed.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lisa Macale is an Academy tutor who’s work has been internationally published and named one of the top Wedding Stylists in Australia. Her passion has moved from styling beautiful weddings to teaching and inspiring others as they launch their own wedding businesses. Lisa now offers mentoring through her personal brand. www.lisamacale.com
Pin for later:
