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How to Direct a Photo Shoot

Photo shoots can be busy, hectic events that if not well-planned and supervised can become a waste of everyone's time. Photo shoots often involve a number of different people performing different tasks. If the day calls for a number of poses to be photographed, keeping everyone on time and informed is the key to a successful shoot. Models, make-up artists and other professionals are often paid hourly, so using their time efficiently will help keep costs reasonable.

Instructions

- 1
  Meet with your client and discuss their objectives for the photo shoot. Have a clear understanding of the number of different photos they are expecting from the shoot before you plan the day.
- 2
  Prepare a shot list for the day. Begin with the most involved and the one that requires the most people involved to create the photo. By scheduling this photo at the beginning of the day, you reduce the chance that those involved in the shoot will be delayed with other work before coming to your shoot.
- 3
  List the people and their specific function for each different picture that has to be shot during the day. If the photo shoot is a fashion shoot, share this list with wardrobe and make-up departments and ensure the correct clothes and make-up are ready at the correct time.
- 4
  Speak with the photographer and determine the amount of time each different shot will require for set up and the actual photography, build a five to 10-minute buffer into the schedule to allow for minor delays.
- 5
  Prepare and post the daily schedule with each department on the day of the shoot and retain a copy for yourself. Visit each department 15 minutes prior to the change of any scene to be photographed to ensure all departments are on schedule and ready for the next switch.

Photography