Prepare for a Successful Marketing shoot

There are many reasons why you may need to have a commercial marketing photoshoot for your business. You may be updating your website, creating content for a marketing campaign, launching a new product, or in need of a new branding photoshoot. However to get the best return for your time, money and effort, preparation is key! A successful photoshoot requires collaboration between all members and the photographer, attention to detail and thoughtful planning. We at Colbis Photo want our clients to have the best experience possible, so to help with that we have put together this checklist and key tips to help you get the results you desire!

Pre-Shoot Checklist: What to do before the shoot

1. Define your Goals and Vision
   - What are you hoping to achieve with this photo shoot? Do you need brand portraits, action shots for a website header, lifestyle images of your team, or a video of your storefront.
   - Defined goals will ensure that you and the photographer are on the same page. While a clear vision will also help you develop a solid shot list, pick locations and find a style to suit you best!

2. Create a Shot List
   - Detailing the types of photos or video clips you need, including specifics on products, locations, or people you want featured.
   - Include logistics like angles, potential background preferences, numbers of shots for each setting. Also knowledge on where the final images will be placed or utilized helps with crop, orientation, and subject positioning.
   - Sharing inspiration images with your photographer will help illustrate the feeling and style that you’re looking for.

3. Select the Right Location
   - If your photoshoot is taking place at your office, store, or a remote location, ensure the space is organized, cleaned, and aligns well with your brand.
   - Take into account lighting, any props, and accessibility of your selected locations. Does the area you’ve selected convey the proper tone, or mood?
   - If on-site, ensure you have a backup location if there are unexpected issues such as bad weather.

4. Prepare Your Team
   - If you will be having some team members as a part of your photoshoot, they need to be aware they are included. Being informed of the specifics of the shoot including the date, clothing requirements, poses or lines to be rehearsed, and how they will be contributing overall to the shoot.
   - If team members are going to be in action shots or group shots, consider providing them with some guidance on what behaviors and expressions you’re needing from them.
   - Most importantly ensure they are comfortable with being a part of the shoot as many people do not enjoy being in photos and video.

5. Planning Wardrobe and Styling
   - Choose outfits or clothing that align with your brand identity. You and your team want to compliment the tone of the shoot while still reflecting professionalism and personality.
   - Consider working with a stylist to assist your company and/or products to look cohesive and polished, especially if the final images/videos will be used for marketing materials.
   - Also consider hiring a professional for hair and makeup for any people who will be included in the shoot. Having your team members look and feel their best can help them perform well on camera.

6. Preparing Your Products
   - For product shoots, ensure that all products are in pristine condition Clean them thoroughly and remove them of any imperfections that may be visible.
   - If your shoot involved a variety of products, utilize organizational lists to ensure nothing is overlooked on the day of the shoot.

7. Coordinating Logistics
   - Confirm all necessary details with your photographer/videographer and team members. Be sure to include the shoot time, location, and any necessary permits or access requirements.
   - Consider parking arrangements, catering (if an all day shoot), or any other logistics that may help with a smooth day. A little preparation can go a long way in reducing stress on the day of the shoot.

Day-of tips: How to ensure things run smoothly

1. Arrive Early
   - An early arrival allows you to oversee the setup process, ensuring everything looks as planned, and to troubleshoot any last-minute issues. It also gives everyone time to become acclimated and get ready.

2. Bring Extras
   - Pack extra clothing, props, or products in case of any changes or mishaps. As they say two is one and one is none, being prepared with a backup will ensure the shoot continues smoothly.

3. Communicate Clearly with Your Photographer/Videographer
   - Be sure there is open communication with your photographer/videographer throughout the shoot. Communicate how shots should be framed, be it for your website, brochure, or social media. Additionally discuss the best angles for your product or team, and any other nuances of the shoot.
   - If something isn’t working or you want to adjust the shot, speak early and speak clearly. Your photographer/videographer wants you to get the best results possible, communicating your wants and needs ensures everyone is happy with the final product.
   - Remember your photographer/videographer is a creative and you’re hiring them for their expertise. Make sure you are listening and taking their advice to heart, because they too want to make great photos/videos.

4. Stay Flexible
   - No matter how much you prepare, stay adaptable. Sometimes the best shots happen spontaneously or require adjustments based on lighting, mood, or other factors.
   - Trust your photographers/videographers expertise and be willing to explore their ideas on different setups or angles that may greatly increase the value of your final results.

5. Make Time for Breaks
   - Commercial shoots can take hours, so it's important to have space in your timeline for breaks. Having snacks and drinks on hand can keep energy levels high which helps everyone involved do their best work.
   - On full day shoots, be sure to have some scheduled time for lunch as well. You don’t have to provide it but you should have time for your photographer/videographer and your team to eat.

6. Focus on Your Brands Story
   - Every image or video clip should say something about your brand. What attributes represent your brand? Trust, professionalism, creativity or maybe innovation? Each shot should align with your brand attributes and the message you want to send to your target audience.
   - Crafting a story with your photos or video that showcases your company’s values, product or team should always be the goal.

Post-Shoot: What happens after the shoot

1. Review and Provide Feedback
   - Once the first drafts are delivered, take time to review them carefully and provide detailed feedback. Make sure the photos or video reflect your original vision and goals.
   - If necessary request any edits. Be sure to include as much information as possible each time to ensure all edits are completed for that round.

2. Organize and Store Your Content
   - It’s imperative that you have a plan to backup and organize your photos and video. Sorting them into categories (e.g., team, lifestyle, products, building, etc) and then most importantly backing them up in multiple locations to avoid data loss.

3. Use Photos and Videos Across Your Marketing Channels
   - Now it’s time to use your content across your marketing channels. Updating your website with new cover images, and team headshots. Creating and scheduling social media posts to build brand excitement. Over even email campaigns and print materials. High quality photos and videos can be used in so many ways to enhance your company image.
   - Optimizing images and video for web use will also be helpful for faster load times.

Final THoughts

A successful marketing shoot doesn’t happen by chance, or by just hiring an amazing photographer/videographer and expecting them to make magic happen. It requires preparation, communication, and most importantly a clear vision on your part. We at Colbis Photo can and will produce fantastic photos and video, but we can only do so much, we need you to guide us to your vision! By following this checklist and keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your commercial video or photoshoot goes smoothly and you walk away with high quality images and videos that truly showcase your business in the best light. Whether you’re capturing company headshots, team portraits, lifestyle imagery, or producing a commercial for TV, great planning is key to great results.

If you’re ready to schedule your next commercial marketing shoot, we’d love to help! Contact us at www.Colbisphoto.com to discuss how we can bring your business’s vision to life with over a decade of experience creating professional and impactful photos and videos in Toledo, Ohio.

Colbe Wells
Colbewells@Colbisphoto.com
419-206-0628