Here’s a truth that some photographers may not tell you: the success of your photo session is determined long before the camera starts clicking. I’ve seen it countless times – clients who prep thoroughly walk away with twice the usable content compared to those who wing it. The difference? It’s not the camera, the lighting, or even the photographer. It’s all in the preparation. Those scroll-stopping flat lays and dreamy product shots that make your ideal clients fall in love? They’re the result of meticulous prep work that starts weeks before the session.

2-3 Weeks Before the Session

Start your prep at least 2 weeks before your photo session. This is your time to gather all your props and products, ensuring nothing is missing or needs to be ordered.

• Create a detailed shot list with specific props needed for each setup
  • If you own a candle shop and one of your candles has scents of cinnamon and orange, you may want to incorporate cinnamon sticks and orange slices in the photos to visually showcase the scents.
• Audit all your props and products, identifying any gaps
  • Do you sell a product in your business? Do you have all the appropriate packaging? Are there any updates you need to make to your products or services before showcasing them in photos?
• Order any missing items or replacements needed
• Consider seasonal elements and how they’ll play into your brand story
  • If you’re doing a holiday campaign for Christmas, incorporating holiday inspired decor, fabrics, etc. (that of course match the vibe of your brand) is a great idea!
• Begin gathering all items in one designated “shoot prep” area
  • I usually have a clear bin in the corner of my office several weeks before my brand photo session. If the items are ready to go, I place them in the bin. If they’re not ready or I need to use them up until the photo session, I make a list of everything in my notes app so I don’t forget to add them later!

1 Week Before the Session

• Try on all outfits
  • Sometimes things don’t fit us quite right, we liked the look better on the hanger, or the colors are a bit off. Try on your outfits at least 1 week prior so you can make adjustments if needed.
• Confirm all your orders have arrived
• Use microfiber cloths to remove fingerprints and dust (especially for laptop/desktop screens)
• Clean glass surfaces with appropriate solutions
• Test any electronic items that will be featured
• Remove tags from new items
• Touch up any scuffs or damages

48 Hours Before

• Steam, iron, and lint roll all of your outfits (models too!) and any other fabrics
• Organize items by setup in clear, labeled bins
• Do a final check of your photo list against packed items
• Plan your transportation logistics

The Morning Of

Focus only on careful transportation and final checks. This isn’t the time for last-minute additions or major changes. Your preparation in the weeks leading up has set you up for success – now trust the process!

Remember, every minute spent preparing saves time during the photo session. That time savings translates directly to more photos, more variety, and ultimately more scroll-stopping content for your brand.

Additional Advice

The Cleaner the Better

Here’s something that might surprise you: cameras pick up EVERYTHING. That tiny smudge you can barely see on your laptop screen? It’ll look like a full-blown fingerprint festival in your final photos. The tiny pieces of lint on your dark attire? Yeah, those are especially noticeable. About 2-3 days before your session, give everything a thorough cleaning.

For products: Use a microfiber cloth (paper towels can leave lint!) and appropriate cleaning solutions for each material. Using a dusting rag, glass cleaner for windows and mirrors, gentle soap for ceramics, and leather cleaner for, well, leather. You get the idea!

For fabrics: Steam or iron any textiles you’re planning to use. Yes, even that “perfectly fine” tablecloth will show wrinkles in photos. Trust me on this one. Wrinkles are extremely hard to even photoshop, so this is a huge one!!

I hope this helped! If there are additional topics you’d be interested in learning more on, send me a message. Happy planning!