5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Photoshoot

Photoshoots are fun and exciting, but they are also a ton of work. Here’s my pro tip - the more planning you can do pre-shoot, the more useful your final images will be. Because, let’s face it! We don’t have time to waste on a full day of shooting just to end up with pretty pictures that have little to no actual marketing purpose. 

So before your next shoot, ask yourself these 5 essential questions to make sure that you’re shooting with your end results in mind:

Where will I be using these photos? 

Keep in mind that if you’re using these photos on social media that Instagram and Pinterest images work best in vertical format, while blog posts and other website images often need to be horizontal. Recognize where you’ll be using your images the most, and make sure to shoot with that strategy in mind - because whenever you need to crop your images, you lose some of its quality.

Do I have any big events coming up?

It’s incredibly frustrating when you draft the perfect copy for a campaign, and then struggle to find the right image to go with it. Hint: If you create your copy for your upcoming events ahead of time, then you can shoot with that copy in mind and get amazing photos that work seamlessly with your campaign.

How will I incorporate my brand’s style and colors into the shoot?

Your brand’s style and colors should be considered in all aspects of your photoshoot. Clothing selection, location, and props should all be complimentary to your brand’s existing style. Your audience should be able to stop and say, “Oh! That’s (insert company name)!!” even without reading any associated copy. 

What are the costs/restrictions to shoot at my ideal location?

If your shoot is being used to promote your business, make sure that you’re following the location’s guidelines for commercial photography. If not, you might end up getting kicked out mid shoot, or worse, fined for not having the proper permits.

How do I want people to feel when they see my images?

Do a quick google search for “emotional wheel.” Done? OK, now clearly define which of these emotions you’d like your target market to feel while viewing your images and keep that in mind while you’re shooting.

If you need more help brainstorming your brand’s next photoshoot, click here to book a 30 minute brainstorming session with me!