Photography doesn’t just happen - there is a process….
The Art of Planning a Photography Session: From Concept to Execution
Photography is more than just picking up a camera and pressing the shutter. A successful photo session requires careful planning, creativity, and coordination, ensuring that the final images align with the envisioned concept. Whether working on a personal project, a client shoot, or a collaborative effort with other creatives, the process involves multiple stages: conceptualization, moodboarding, planning, and execution.
When booking a session with me, all clients are asked to gill in a questionairre. This enables me to ensure that their expectations are reasonably met and that I fully understand what is they want from their session.
1. Concept and Idea Development
Every great photo session starts with an idea. This could stem from a personal vision, a client’s brief, or inspiration drawn from art, fashion, nature, or everyday life. When developing the concept, I ask consider:
What story do I want to tell?
What emotions should the images convey?
Who is the target audience?
What style or aesthetic suits this concept?
Having a clear concept helps create a focused and cohesive shoot, setting the stage for the next steps.
2. Creating a Moodboard
A moodboard is a crucial tool for visualizing the concept. This can be a digital or physical collage of reference images, color palettes, lighting setups, and poses. Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, or even printed magazine clippings can help gather inspiration. Sharing the moodboard with the team—models, stylists, makeup artists, and assistants—ensures everyone is on the same page and understands the creative direction.
3. Planning the Logistics
Once the concept and mood are set, the logistical planning begins. This involves:
Choosing a Location or Studio: The setting plays a significant role in the final look of the images. Outdoor shoots require considerations like weather conditions, time of day, and permits, while studio shoots allow greater control over lighting and setup.
Lighting Considerations: Natural light vs. artificial light? Golden hour vs. studio strobes? Lighting choices shape the mood and texture of the images, so testing different setups beforehand can save time on the shoot day.
Wardrobe and Styling: Whether working with a stylist or sourcing outfits independently, clothing should complement the concept. Attention to colors, textures, and accessories helps enhance the visual impact.
Props and Set Design: If the concept requires specific props or a styled environment, these need to be sourced, built, or arranged in advance.
Scheduling and Team Coordination: Ensuring all collaborators—models, makeup artists, hairstylists, and assistants—are available on the shoot day is key to a smooth workflow. A well-structured timeline prevents unnecessary delays.
4. Execution: The Photo Shoot
With thorough planning in place, the shoot itself becomes a seamless process. Here are some key aspects to focus on:
Directing the Team: Communication is vital. Guide models/clients with poses and expressions, collaborate with stylists for last-minute adjustments, and work closely with lighting assistants.
Adapting to Challenges: Even with meticulous planning, unexpected issues can arise—weather changes, technical difficulties, or last-minute adjustments. Staying flexible and problem-solving on the spot is part of the job.
Capturing the Essence: Stay connected with the original vision while allowing space for spontaneity. Sometimes, the best shots come from unexpected moments.
Conclusion: The Importance of Preparation
Photography doesn’t just happen—it’s a thoughtful and layered process. By taking the time to develop a strong concept, create a moodboard, plan logistics, and execute with intention, I ensure that the session is productive, creative, and fulfilling for everyone involved. Investing in pre-shoot preparation not only saves time but also results in striking and well-composed images that bring the vision to life.
If you are thinking of booking a session with me, then all of that may sound daunting, but most of that is done behind the scenes and by me and is done to ensure that you get the best out of your session. Sometimes for the actual session it may just be me, the client and an assistant, but the process is still the same. However, large or small the session, the planning process is an essential pre shoot requiremment. This is not an add on to the price you pay but is included. Photography doesn’t just happen - there is a process…..
Laura x
March 2025