Photo Shoot Checklist: What Clients Need to Prepare for the Big Day
Planning a photo shoot can be an exciting yet daunting task, whether you’re promoting a new product, launching a fashion line, or capturing brand visuals for your website. A successful shoot relies on careful planning, attention to detail, and the right team – including experienced professional models.
At Dreams Agency, we understand the complexities of organising photo shoots and the importance of getting everything right on the day. This guide is designed to help clients feel fully prepared, stress-free, and confident when the camera starts rolling.
1. Define the Objective of the Shoot
Before any logistics come into play, take time to clearly define the purpose of your shoot. Are you promoting a product? Creating lifestyle content? Shooting editorial fashion? Your objectives will influence every decision moving forward – from location and lighting to styling and model selection.
Questions to ask:
What message do we want to convey?
Where will the images be used? (e.g., website, social media, print)
What’s the mood or aesthetic we’re aiming for?
Having a creative brief that outlines these answers will keep everyone aligned.
2. Create a Mood Board
A visual reference goes a long way. Compile a mood board that includes:
Lighting and colour schemes
Poses or framing styles
Wardrobe inspiration
Locations or backdrops
This not only helps your photographer but also ensures your models, stylists, and makeup artists understand the intended vibe.
3. Book the Right Photographer and Crew
Work with professionals who understand your industry and the look you’re trying to achieve. For commercial shoots, it’s crucial that the photographer is not just technically skilled but also able to direct models and adapt to different scenarios on the fly.
Your crew might also include:
Makeup artist and hair stylist
Wardrobe stylist
Assistant or runner
Art director or brand rep (depending on the scale)
Tip: Have a pre-shoot meeting or call with your team to walk through the schedule and creative direction.
4. Secure the Location
Choose a setting that supports your shoot’s goals – studio or outdoor, minimalist or vibrant, urban or natural. Be sure to:
Visit the location ahead of time
Check lighting conditions
Arrange for permits if needed
Consider noise levels, weather, and access to facilities (changing areas, power sources, toilets)
Have a backup plan if shooting outdoors.
5. Hire Professional Models from Dreams Agency
One of the most important components of a successful shoot is the talent in front of the camera. At Dreams Agency, we provide professional, experienced models who bring more than just looks – they bring reliability, charisma, and the ability to connect with the camera in a way that enhances your brand.
Why choose Dreams Agency?
Diverse Talent Pool: We represent a broad range of models – male, female, commercial, fitness, fashion, plus-size, and more.
Proven Experience: Our models have worked on campaigns for top-tier brands and understand the rhythm of a fast-paced shoot.
Efficient Booking: Our team works with you to match the perfect model(s) to your brief, quickly and without hassle.
Nationwide Coverage: Whether your shoot is in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or a remote location, we can provide talent wherever you are.
Our models are not only photogenic but also punctual, professional, and easy to direct – saving you time and ensuring a smooth-running day.
If you’re unsure about the kind of model that best suits your project, our booking experts are on hand to offer advice and make tailored recommendations based on your objectives and brand aesthetic.
6. Plan the Wardrobe and Props
What your models wear will set the tone of your visuals. Either supply the clothing yourself or collaborate with a stylist to curate the perfect wardrobe. Ensure all garments:
Fit the models correctly
Are steamed or ironed
Align with the colour scheme and mood board
Don’t forget the finer details like jewellery, shoes, or seasonal accessories.
Props should be relevant but not distracting. If you’re shooting product images, be sure everything is clean, intact, and camera-ready.
7. Prepare a Shot List
A shot list is a breakdown of every image or scene you want to capture. It keeps your team focused and ensures nothing is forgotten. Include:
Angle or framing notes (e.g., wide shot, close-up)
Who/what is in each shot
Specific poses or expressions
Lighting notes (e.g., backlit, natural light, dramatic)
This is especially useful when you’re working with multiple models or outfits.
8. Timing and Schedule
The day of the shoot should run like clockwork. Create a timeline that includes:
Arrival times for models and crew
Setup and test shots
Wardrobe and makeup changes
Breaks and meals
Wrap-up and pack-down time
Be realistic and build in buffer time – shoots can overrun, especially if the weather or technical issues arise.
Tip: Share the schedule in advance with all involved and bring printed copies on the day.
9. Legal Considerations and Paperwork
Make sure all contracts and release forms are signed beforehand. You may need:
Model release forms (confirming use of images)
Location permits or permissions
NDAs if the project is confidential
Dreams Agency can assist with paperwork involving our models, ensuring everything is legally compliant and straightforward.
10. Bring the Essentials
Here’s a quick checklist of easy-to-forget items:
Steamer or iron
Safety pins and clips for wardrobe fixes
Makeup wipes and touch-up products
First aid kit
Snacks and bottled water
Phone chargers and extension leads
Gaffer tape, scissors, and clamps
These small items can make a big difference to the comfort and productivity of your team.
11. Be Present and Flexible
While a well-planned shoot will keep things smooth, flexibility is key. Be open to spontaneous creativity and adjustments based on lighting, model interaction, or new ideas from your photographer.
Being on set allows you to give real-time feedback and ensure the content aligns with your vision.
Final Thoughts
A well-prepared photo shoot is the result of clear planning, the right creative partners, and – most importantly – top-quality talent. At Dreams Agency, we take pride in supplying professional models who elevate your project and deliver results that speak volumes.
If you’re planning a shoot and need reliable, experienced models who understand how to deliver on-camera, don’t leave it to chance – trust the team at Dreams Agency. Whether you’re working with tight deadlines or a complex concept, we’re here to make it happen.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your next shoot and find out how we can help bring your vision to life.