Use This Unbeatable Photography Workflow to Consistently Nail Every Project!
Being a pro photographer isn’t just about snapping great photos—it’s about having a foolproof workflow that keeps everything on track from start to finish. In this article, I’ll walk you through the exact workflow I use for every shoot, step by step. Plus, I’m sharing behind-the-scenes shots from my latest project to give you an inside look at how I make it all happen!
Phase One: Planning The Shoot
Before even touching the camera, be sure to dedicate time to planning! Since this was a returning client, we jumped on a Zoom call to dive into their brand's needs and goals. This conversation helped us get clear on their vision and make sure we were on the same page before the shoot even started. Planning upfront saves so much time and almost guarantees the shoot runs smoothly!
In our Zoom call, the client asked that we focus equally on the product packaging, applicator, and ingredients.
To keep everything organized I created a detailed shot list. This shot list mapped out the specific angles for each shot—whether it was close-ups of the applicator, ingredient highlights, or dynamic packaging shots. It really kept us on track, and having the shot list made it way easier to communicate with the client and deliver exactly what they were looking for!
Phase Two: The Shoot
Now that everything was planned out, it was time to hit the studio. The first thing I do in any shoot is pull up a digital copy of my Shot List before setting anything up. Reviewing this prior to shooting, allows me to focus on being creative without worrying about forgetting any critical shots. Before the shoot begins, I pull together all the necessary props, backgrounds, lights, and, of course, the products.
Let’s be honest, no matter how great your vision is, without an organized system in place, the shoot can easily go off track. This is why I always establish creative freedom with our clients. I explain that while on set, I may sometimes tweak the content ideas to better showcase their products.
My Shoot Day Thoughts
Set Design & Lighting: For this project, I worked with a mix of neutral backdrops and textured materials to highlight the natural ingredients in the product. The lighting setup was a balance of soft and sharp contrasts to bring out the luxury of the packaging while also keeping it warm and inviting.
Real-Time Adjustments: While the shot list is my guide, I strongly believe in the magic of spontaneity. Sometimes, an idea hits me mid-shoot, and I love to experiment with it! The key here is flexibility—having a shot list means I can afford to be creative without losing focus.
Phase Three: Post-Production
The shoot may be over, but the real work begins in post-production. My goal here is to maintain the client’s vision while enhancing the best elements of the photos.
Culling and Sorting
The first step is to upload all of the images into Adobe Lightroom to be sorted. To find the best shots, I look for clarity, focus, and overall aesthetic. I also make sure to compare these against the shot list to ensure nothing was missed! This can be tedious, but it’s a critical part of the process.
Editing and Retouching
After narrowing down the images, it’s time to edit. For product photography, clean and precise editing is key! I use both Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to fine-tune colors, sharpen details, and remove any imperfections in the background or on the product.
In this project, I paid extra attention to enhancing the shiny texture of the packaging and making sure the colors of the ingredients were true-to-life.
7 Essential Tips for a Smooth and Successful Shoot Day
1. Take Test Shots
Don’t assume everything is working perfectly—take test shots to adjust your settings and ensure the scene is exactly how you envision it.
2. Monitor the Details by Tethering Your Camera to Capture One
Tethering your camera to Capture One allows you to see the shots in real time on a bigger screen, making it easier to spot issues like focus, lighting, or composition. A small oversight can become a big problem in post-production so watch every detail!
3. Stick to the Shot List
Keep your shot list close at all times. It’s your roadmap to stay organized, ensuring you capture every detail the client expects.
4. Have Multiple Microfiber Cloths on Hand
Smudges and dust can ruin an otherwise perfect shot, especially with products. Having multiple microfiber cloths nearby lets you quickly clean surfaces, lenses, and props throughout the shoot without slowing down.
5. Wear Gloves to Avoid Fingerprints
When handling products, especially reflective or delicate items, wear gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints and smudges. This helps keep everything looking clean and polished, saving you editing time later.
6. Don’t Rush—Quality Over Speed
Rushing through a shoot often leads to mistakes, lower-quality images, and missed details. If you feel yourself hurrying, it’s better to pause, take a break, or even reschedule for another day. Slowing down ensures each shot gets the attention it deserves, leading to a much better final product.
7. Keep the Energy Positive
The mood on set affects everyone, from your team to the client. Stay upbeat, and keep things moving with clear direction and good vibes.
“A great photography workflow is about planning, executing, and reviewing with precision.”
By incorporating a Shot List Template into your process, you’ll not only streamline your workflow but also deliver consistently high-quality work for every client!
Grab our Shot List Template today and start organizing your next shoot like a pro! 👇🏼
FAQs
1. Why is a shot list important for my photography workflow?
A shot list keeps you organized and ensures you capture all the key shots the client needs. It helps prevent missed details, keeps the shoot on track, and allows you to stay focused on being creative.
2. How do I create a shot list for a photography project?
Start by discussing the client’s goals and brand needs. Break down each shot into categories (product, lifestyle, detail shots, etc.) and include specific notes on angles, lighting, and props. Our Shot List Template can make this process easier.
5. How do I ensure I meet the client’s expectations?
Frequent communication is key. Check in with your client during the shoot to review shots and make adjustments if needed. Following the shot list closely will also ensure you meet all their requirements.
6. How do I stay creative while following a shot list?
A shot list is a guide, not a restriction. Use it as a foundation, but feel free to experiment with angles, lighting, and compositions to bring fresh creativity to the project.
8. What’s the best way to organize my images after the shoot?
Organize your images by categories such as shot type, product, or scene. This makes editing and client review faster and more efficient. Immediately back up your files to prevent data loss.
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