Planning for the photo shoot
We have new designs, so I’m starting to plan the photo shoot. We haven’t done a formal photo shoot since we launched (yes, that’s the truth). When we launched we did a photo shoot with a friend who is a professional product photographer. We were completely unprepared, we went in with our product and no clear definition of the scene we wanted to set, or the mood we wanted to convey.
So, as I’m planning for a photo shoot for our organics collection, I know I have a lot more to think about than just the product being ready:
- Models – need to locate and confirm models
- Scheduling for the day – the setup takes up most of the shoot time. If you haven’t been on a shoot, it’s almost unimaginable how long it can take to get the lighting setup.
- What types of photos we need – we need model shots more than isolated product shots. If you need isolated product shots, you should create a photo shot list that lists every product you need to shoot. For a model shoot – the photo shot list includes all the products /scenes you want shot. Send this list to the photographer; the list will help you group your shots in a logical order and plan for a realistic amount of time.
- What is the mood / atmosphere – this is where I still need to do the most thinking. I learned a lot about “hero” shots from the photographer. You need props – think if your product is candles, you might want to set a dining table scene for your “hero” shot. The candles would be the main focul point and glasses, centerpieces, etc. would be background items. The hero shot helps your customer envision the product in use, it should make the customer WANT that scene in their life.
- The setting – indoor or outdoor? If outdoor, where?
- Costs – of course, there is always the cost to consider!
I’m excited to get to our next shoot and feel happy that I will be much more prepared than the first time. Oh, one more tip – if you are using models (especially babies), don’t have them arrive until the time you anticipate being finished with setup. It will keep them from burning out before it’s their time to shine.
Have fun – it’s one of those aspects of our jobs that is creative and fun!
Add comment January 13th, 2010