10 Steps to Building a Shot List for Your Brand Photoshoot
Building a shot list for your brand photoshoot is essential to ensure that you capture all the necessary images that align with your brand's vision and goals. Below are 10 steps that will help you create an effective shot list for your next brand photoshoot.
Define your brand: Begin by clearly understanding your brand identity, values, and the message you want to convey through your photoshoot. Consider your target audience, the mood or atmosphere you want to create, and the overall aesthetic of your brand.
Determine the purpose: Identify the specific purpose of the photoshoot. Are you showcasing new products, highlighting your brand's lifestyle, capturing behind-the-scenes moments, or something else altogether? Knowing the purpose will help you focus on the types of shots you need.
Outline key themes or concepts: Brainstorm the main themes or concepts you want to capture in your brand photos. These could be related to specific products, brand values, or even seasonal campaigns. For example, if you're a fashion brand, themes might include "urban street style" or "bohemian summer vibes."
Identify essential shots: Make a list of the must-have shots that are crucial for your brand. These could include shots of your products from different angles, lifestyle images featuring models or customers, or specific scenes that represent your brand's story.
Consider variations: Think about different variations or angles for each shot to add diversity to your gallery. For product shots, you may want to capture close-ups, different color options, or product details. For lifestyle shots, consider capturing different poses, locations, or outfits.
Create a shot list document: Organize your shot list on one document. Include shot descriptions, locations, models or subjects, props or styling details, and any specific instructions for your brand photographer.
Add reference images: To provide visual clarity, attach reference images or examples to your shot list. This can help your photographer understand your vision and expectations more accurately. You can source example images from other brands, stock photography sites, Pinterest, or even Google and Instagram.
Make a prop list: In order to stay organized and make sure you have everything you need for shoot day, make a list of props you’ll need to gather or purchase in order to create all the images on your shot list.
Collaborate with your team: Share the shot list with your team, including the photographer, stylist, models, and any other relevant members. Gather feedback and make adjustments as needed based on their input and expertise.
Review and finalize: Before the photoshoot, review your shot list to ensure it covers all the necessary shots and aligns with your brand's goals. Make any final adjustments or additions if required.
Remember, flexibility is important during the actual photoshoot, as spontaneous ideas and opportunities may arise. Your shot list should serve as a guide rather than a rigid script, allowing for creativity and improvisation.