How to do a photoshoot - what is needed

This week in Industry Insider I’ll show you how I did one of my photoshoots from last year.

Here are the steps:

Come up with a big concept/theme

This ties everything together. Usually the styling follows the theme of the collection. Think about the connection of all the pieces.
Select the models

Make sure you get the models with the look and feel that matches your brand. Also make sure it matches the theme as well. If your theme is Winter Wonderland, you might want more light skin models, make up can only do so much.
Select the make up team

Make sure you find a team that has experience doing implementing your vision. Create a schedule and make sure you buffer enough time for prep and have enough make-up artists so that everything is on time. Also know the amount of time you will hire the make up artist, you don’t want to book them for much longer than you need.
Select the styling team

Once again make sure they have experience doing what you want and can get things done. They should be chosen months before. Give them mini tasks and deadlines, you will get a sense if they can deliver.
Select the outfits – diagram each outfit

Ideally you’ll want to have all the outfits planned out so that it can move quickly during the shoot. Make sure you have all the details and match all the outfits and there is a variety. You don’t want to end up with six looks with the same hat and gloves (unless that’s the theme).
Choose and book the location

Will you be shooting in a studio or on location? Studio is always easier as extra tools are there and you can control the elements and lighting. However onsite location can add element of depth to your photos.
Take some practice shots to get the look you want

As the models are getting ready take some shots with a fill in model to get the right angle and lighting. And if possible go to the location beforehand and practice the shots as well, there will be a lot going on during the shoot day. So you will want to have as much of the variables set as possible.
Set up the call time

Schedule your call times for the whole team. Make sure there are buffer times. And if you realize you are running behind, cut some scenes or speed things up. Being in charge you need to make sure you have all the shots and every one has enough energy for it.
Choose the best photographer for your fit

Go through the portfolio of photographers you like. Pick a style and ask him or her to do that style. The shoot day is not a day to try anything new, it’s about getting the job done.