A shot list can be one of the most useful tools in business photography. What is a shot list? It’s a visual compilation of photos used to plan the types of images you would like to capture during a photo shoot. Regardless of whether you or your photographer compile this list, you as the business owner should be aware of the overall images that will be captured.
Step 1: Think high level.
Before you even reach out to a photographer, you should have some idea of what images you will need. Is it for a complete brand overhaul or simply updates to a website or brochure? Whatever the case may be, take some time to create some overall visual goals for the shoot.
Step 2: Find some examples of images you like.
Whether you use Pinterest or another method for collecting images, create a digital board or folder and start saving images. Try to focus on the overall vibe of your brand, along with angles and lighting that you like.
Step 3: Edit. Edit. Edit.
Once you’ve made a collection of images, go through and throw out the ones that seem out of place. For example, do you tend to like brighter images? Throw out darker ones to keep things consistent.
Step 4: Get organized.
After you’ve cleaned up your collection, group them into themes. For example, I worked on a shot list for a client that is a baker. My themes turned out to be the following:
- Action shots of the baker making the baked goods
- Styled shots of the ingredients
- Lifestyle shots of the baked goods
- Detailed shots of the products
Step 5: Talk it out.
Once you have your edited, organized list of images, talk through the collection and themes with your team, client or photographer. Walk them through why these images made the cut and how you think they will help you achieve your goals. Below is an example of how our shot list came together.
I hope you find these quick tips helpful! Have some questions or want some help with an upcoming shoot? We’d be happy to help. Contact us and we’ll be in touch.