How to Prepare for a Fashion Brand Photoshoot

Lights, camera, action! Fashion photoshoots might look glamorous from the outside, but behind the scenes, it's a TON of grunt work to prepare and ensure things run smoothly. Don't forget, this is a moment where the pressure is on–photoshoots can make or break the launch of your brand's latest collection. So, how do you ensure you're not just winging it—but absolutely nailing it?

As a fashion designer, I've seen it all—from seamless photoshoots to full-blown chaos during my time at Adore Me. Fast-forward to this August, when I hosted my very first shoot for iteration, my sustainable intimates brand. Thanks to some serious prep and planning, our team of 14 incredible women said it was the smoothest photoshoot they'd ever!

And because I'm all about sharing the love (no gatekeeping here!), I'm breaking down exactly what worked. Whether you're a fashion brand owner or a photographer, here's how to get everything prepped like a pro before the big day.

Budget: Don't Skip the Essentials 

Let's dive into everyone's favorite topic—money. Your budget is the foundation of your entire photoshoot, guiding every decision from models to snacks (yes, snacks are essential!). Knowing where your dollars will be spent is crucial whether you're working with $5,000 or $15,000.

A smaller budget means you'll need to get a bit scrappy. With $5,000, you might call in favors from friends or work with up-and-coming talent. It could mean hiring just one model instead of four or five and focusing on a lean, efficient team. On the flip side, if you've got $15,000 to play with, you'll have the flexibility to hire multiple models, a dedicated hair and makeup team, and even a photography assistant to help your day run smoother and capture more content.

The trick is to prioritize what's most important. If nailing the perfect shot is your top priority, you'll want to spend more of your dough on a fantastic photographer. Make a list of your non-negotiables—those areas where you simply can't afford to cut corners. Be realistic, but don't skimp on the key elements to bring your vision to life. Quality talent and a skilled photographer are worth every penny.

Photographer: The Visual Storyteller

Your photographer isn't just someone who takes pretty pictures—they're your creative partner and right-hand person on the shoot. So, choose wisely. Make sure you hire someone with experience shooting fashion and products. A person who takes stunning landscape shots might not be the right fit for capturing the detail and movement of your garments.

It's also essential to find someone whose style aligns with your vision. Are you after dreamy, editorial-style shots? Or something clean and minimal? Here's a pro tip: create a Pinterest board filled with the type of shots you envision for your shoot. Then, compare that to the portfolios of the photographers you're considering. The goal is to find someone who truly gets your brand and aesthetic.

Make sure you meet with them before the shoot to discuss your vision, shot list, and any specific details. You don't want to explain the framing you need while the clock—and your budget—ticks away on the big day. You also want to make sure your photographer is good at giving direction. They're the leader of the shoot, so having someone who knows how to lead is essential for making the most of your day!

Remember that if you need product shots (like flatlays or ghost mannequin images) and lifestyle banners with models, you might need two different photographers or even separate shoots. Not all photographers can handle both styles, and not all studio spaces can accommodate both setups. Plan accordingly!

Above all, the most crucial part to remember here is: don't skimp on your photographer. They're one of the most essential investments in your shoot, and the right one will bring your collection to life in ways you hadn't even imagined.

Model Casting: Represent Your Brand

Ready for your own America's Next Top Model moment? Before booking models, consider your brand's core values and the customers you're speaking to. Your models should embody what your brand stands for. For instance, if your line is focused on plus-size Gen X women, casting a size 00, 20-year-old won't exactly hit the mark. At iteration, we ensured our models represented a mix of sizes, body types, and backgrounds—because inclusivity isn't just a buzzword for us; it's woven into our brand's DNA.

Next up, how are you going to find your models? There are a few ways to go about it:

Model Agencies: are great for streamlining the process. They handle the legwork, from setting up go-sees to providing portfolios and measurements. They're more expensive, but the convenience and professionalism are worth it if you can swing the fee.

Casting Calls: If you're in a major city, hosting an in-person casting call can be a fantastic way to see how models move, respond to direction, and fit the energy of your brand. Virtual castings work too, though seeing someone's personality and presence live is always a plus.

No matter how you find your models, the key is ensuring they represent your customers. The goal isn't just pretty faces—it's finding people who can bring your collection to life and resonate with your audience.

Instagram & Photographer Recommendations: If you're more DIY, social media is your best friend. Searching Instagram hashtags or asking your photographer for recommendations can connect you to fresh, authentic faces. Bonus: you'll likely find models who genuinely align with your brand.

Friends as Models: You can always cast friends or acquaintances, but keep in mind that they might need more guidance, which could slow down your shoot. While this option is budget-friendly, it requires more patience, planning, and an understanding that great coaching is of the essence.

Hair & Makeup: The Elevators of Your Lookbook

Just like your photographer, your hair and makeup team needs to get your vibe. And trust me, having a skilled team is non-negotiable. You want pros who've worked on photoshoots before because they know how to apply makeup that looks flawless under studio lights or flashes—no one wants a washed-out look.

For iteration, we aimed for a natural yet polished aesthetic–no smoky winged eyelids, bright red lips, or eyelash extensions here. Our hair and makeup artists understood how to translate our lookbook into reality, creating looks that felt effortless but elevated. When choosing your team, make sure they know your collection's vibe. If your pieces are laid-back and minimalist, you don't want hair and makeup that feels too over-the-top or glam and vice versa.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the more models you have, the bigger your hair and makeup team needs to be. Suppose you're working with more than three models. In that case, you'll likely need an extra hand to keep things moving efficiently and avoid running behind schedule. This ensures that everyone looks picture-perfect without rushing through the process. It also helps to ensure your team isn't overwhelmed with work and totally stressed out on the shoot day.

Location Scouting: The Setting for Your Story

Now, where's all this magic happening? Finding the perfect location can feel like a puzzle. Still, it's essential to pick a spot that complements your collection and overall aesthetic. The location sets the mood for your entire shoot, so it's worth taking the time to get it right.

First, consider whether you want an indoor or outdoor shoot. If you're thinking of shooting outdoors (hello, dreamy nature shots!), be sure to check if you need any permits—some public parks or landmarks require them. And don't forget about the logistics: you'll need a space where models can comfortably change outfits, and weather is always a wild card, so have a backup plan ready.

For indoor shoots, think about the kind of light you need. Do you want natural light's bright, airy feel, or are you aiming for something more stylized with controlled studio lighting? When we shot for iteration, natural light was a must to capture the softness and details of our intimates. Also, consider the type of shots you'll be taking. If you're trying to do flatlays alongside lifestyle images, you'll need a setup that works for both. Do you need background paper for clean product shots? Not every studio can accommodate multiple setups, so plan accordingly.

Size matters, too. Make sure there's enough space for your entire team—models, photographers, makeup artists, assistants, and, of course, any props or additional equipment you're bringing in. Is there room to comfortably set up hair and makeup, changing areas, and a steaming station?

Accessibility is another important factor. No one wants to drag garment bags and props up a narrow staircase or deal with limited loading zones. Always check how easy it is to get in and out of the location with your equipment.

Finally, keep an eye on the budget. Studio spaces can get pricey, and some charge based on the size of your team. If you're working with a lean budget, look for studios that offer half-day rates or allow for a smaller crew without charging extra. Just make sure the space checks all the boxes for your shoot needs.

Lock Down a Date: Timing is Everything

Coordinating a photoshoot is like putting together a giant puzzle—there are a lot of moving parts, and timing can make or break the whole operation. Depending on how you manage things, you may either lock in a date first and then assemble your team or vice versa. Both approaches have their challenges, so flexibility is key.

You may need to work around your team's availability when working with high-demand professionals (like a sought-after photographer or makeup artist). In that case, securing the team and finding a date that aligns with everyone's schedule could be your best bet. But if you have a specific deadline for launching your collection, you might need to set a date first and then find the right talent to make it work. Sometimes, it's a bit of both–having some soft-set dates in mind and asking if they work as you start planning. Either way, clear communication with your team is essential to avoid any last-minute hiccups. Once you've finalized your lineup, lock down that date as soon as possible. 

Props & Backgrounds: Enhancers, Not Scene-Stealers

Props and backgrounds can elevate your photoshoot, but remember—they're there to enhance the collection, not overshadow it. Think of them as the supporting cast to your star garments. For our iteration shoot, we kept it simple with natural textures, plants, and a few layering pieces that complemented our intimates without stealing the spotlight.

The key here is to make sure everything you bring in aligns with the story you're telling. Whether it's a vintage chair, some delicate florals, or minimalist background paper, your props should feel intentional and cohesive with the collection. Keep it clean and focused, allowing the clothing to shine while the props subtly enrich the overall aesthetic.

Also, here's a practical tip: whatever you lug into the studio, you have to lug back out. Don't go overboard by trying to recreate a full movie set. Keep your shot list in mind and list must-have props based on the images you want to capture. This helps streamline your decisions and prevents overloading the space with unnecessary extras.

Create a Shot List: Your Photoshoot Playbook

This is your ultimate roadmap for the day, and trust me—it's an absolute lifesaver. If there's one thing you absolutely must do before your shoot, it's creating a detailed shot list. It might take some time to put together, but it'll save you hours of scrambling (and major headaches) during the actual shoot.

For iteration, I broke our shot list into two main categories: e-commerce shots (the clean, detailed garment shots that show the fit and fabric) and lifestyle shots (those dreamy, in-the-moment images that really bring the brand to life). And don't forget about behind-the-scenes (BTS) content for social media—your audience loves a peek behind the curtain, so plan some shots that capture the process.

Pro Tip: I went all out and made huge poster boards of the shot list, complete with inspo images, the specific model in the shot, which outfit she'd be wearing, and what background we'd be shooting on. To keep things streamlined, I grouped all the shots by outfit, so we could knock out everything for one look before moving on to the next. Making it poster-sized and taping it to the wall made it super easy for everyone to reference—and we could check off each shot as we completed it. Trust me, it kept the day moving like clockwork.

Your shot list doesn't just guide the shoot—it helps you decide which photographer, models, and makeup artists to hire. It needs to reflect the vibe of your brand, so think about where these photos will be used: website banners, product shots, social media, wholesale catalogs, etc. You'll need a mix of shots—close-ups, wide horizontal and vertical shots, and lifestyle moments—all tailored to fit those different platforms.

In short, your shot list is your best friend on photoshoot day. With it, you'll stay organized, focused, and confident that every angle of your brand is captured just the way you envisioned.

Order Samples: The Heart of Your Photoshoot

Let your factory know well in advance which samples you'll need for the shoot. They might create Salesman Samples (SMS) specifically for you, or they could pull from the production line if your timing is close to launch. When you lock in your shoot date and models, give your factory the heads-up—and believe me when I say don't wait until the last minute. Factories often have tight schedules and overbooked sample rooms, so you don't want to scramble for samples at the eleventh hour.

Also, always, always have backups. Things happen—zippers break, seams pop, or a garment just doesn't fit quite right on the model. Having extra pieces on hand ensures you're not losing precious time trying to troubleshoot on the shoot day.

Before the big day, make sure your garments are prepped and photo-ready. That means steaming out any wrinkles, double-checking for any loose threads, and ensuring each piece looks flawless for its close-up. After all, your garments are the star of the show, so they need to be in top form!

Emergency Bag: Your Photoshoot Survival Kit

No matter how well you plan, something unexpected will happen on shoot day—that’s where your emergency bag comes in. Think of it as your photoshoot survival kit, packed with essentials to handle any mini-crisis.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Safety pins: For those last-minute wardrobe malfunctions.

Steamer: Wrinkles are the enemy—keep your garments looking fresh.

Lint roller: Pet hair, dust, or fuzz? Gone in seconds.

Nipple covers & panty liners: A must for intimate shoots, ensuring a smooth look and extra comfort for your models.

Tide pen: Spills happen, and this is your instant stain remover.

Scissors: For stray threads or tags that need a quick snip.

Chargers: Keep your phones, cameras, and any equipment powered throughout the day.

Microphones: If you’re recording BTS content or interviews, don’t forget these!

Tripod: A stable shot is a beautiful shot—bring one for your camera or phone.

First aid kit: From blisters to minor cuts, better safe than sorry.

These essentials will help you handle any hiccup and keep your shoot running smoothly. Prepared = stress-free!

Plan Meals: Keep Your Team Happy (and Fed!)

You might chuckle, but trust me—meal planning is one of the most important aspects of a photoshoot. Hungry people don’t perform at their best, whether it’s your models, photographers, or even you. No one wants a hangry team, and a mid-shoot energy crash is the last thing you need.

Organize designated lunch breaks so everyone can refuel and relax for a bit. Make sure there’s a good mix of snacks available throughout the day—think granola bars, fruit, nuts, and plenty of water. Keep things light and easy to grab, so people can nibble between takes without slowing down the shoot.

And don’t underestimate the power of coffee! Having a little caffeine boost on hand can make a world of difference, especially during those long afternoon stretches.

Keeping your team well-fed is vital in maintaining high spirits and productivity. Trust me, it’s worth every granola bar!

Prepping for a fashion photoshoot might initially feel overwhelming, but with a solid plan and the right team, it can be a blast. The key is to stay organized, remain flexible when the unexpected happens, and—most importantly—enjoy the process. After all, this is the moment where all your hard work as a designer takes center stage and comes to life.

Remember, this is your time to bring all your hard work to life! With careful prep and a stellar team, your vision will come together seamlessly. You’ve got this!

Now that you’ve got the prep down, it’s time to take things to the next level. In Part 2, we’ll focus on assembling your dream team and who you need to make your vision a reality. Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss it! 

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