THE PHOTO SHOOT
Getting ready for a photo shoot can seem a bit daunting, especially
if it is your first time so here are a few tips on how to prepare for
you shoot, what equipment to bring and how to work with your models.
Preparation
Success is about 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration and preparing
for your photo shoot is no exception. Plan in advance. Write all of your
ideas down and do not forget to consider the location and angles you
want to get and work them out in your mind before packing for location.
Test and check all of your equipment and make sure everything is
working. Don’t forget to charge the batteries, clean your lenses, and
make sure you have enough photo storage available.
What to Pack up
In addition to packing your primary camera, pack a back up camera.
Consider your location and pack accordingly. Make sure you pack all of
your accessories including your extra lenses and filters. There is
nothing worse than being in the middle of a shoot and realizing you have
forgotten one special little do dad that would have made the perfect
shot.
The last step you need to take before heading out the door is to check
the weather! I know simple right? Well, if you know that it may be a bit
foggy or dewy outside, you would need to make sure your equipment stays
dry and functioning and the few extra minutes checking the weather can
save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, especially if you arrive
to the shoot and then have to reschedule with your model; costly and a
waste of time for the both of you.
How to Work with Your Models
Communication, Communication, Communication!
A professional model is going to save you a lot of time in the long
run, but she won’t be able to be much help if you are not communicating
to her before and during the shoot. Let her (or him) know what you want
and what is expected of them. If you need them to bring their own
wardrobe, props, makeup, accessories, then let them know these things
ahead of time.
During the shoot it is even more important to communicate. You can not
just sit behind the camera and expect a model to be able to read your
mind. Let your model know the shoot layout; where the camera is, the
lights are and where the pose marks are. During the actual shooting,
express your needs as thoroughly as possible and allow for feedback. If
the dialog and communication are smooth, then both of you are going to
feel it throughout the shoot and your model will be able to remain calm
and pliant throughout your time together; giving you greater odds of
getting that great shot even more.
Planning for your photo shoot can be overwhelming, but only if you are
not prepared ahead of time, have the right equipment ready to go and do
not know how to work with your subject model. These short tips should
eliminate some of the stress you may be feeling. Follow your plan and
success will come! |
