Styled Shoots:
A Guide for New Photographers
I’m so excited to share with you a little peek into the world of styled shoots. I actually first experienced styled shoots as a wedding floral designer and as a planner, but venturing into them as a photographer was a bigger difference than I anticipated!
When I first started, I was totally nervous about jumping into the world of styled shoots as a photographer. There’s so much to think about—what to bring, what to do, and how to make sure you're not just faking it ‘til you make it (but let’s be real, we all do that a little bit!). But trust me, styled shoots are an incredible opportunity to learn and connect with other amazing creatives. So, let me share with you what I’ve learned along the way about styled shoots—what they are, what you should bring, and how to grow from them.
First off, What is a Styled Shoot?
A styled shoot is essentially a planned photoshoot with a theme or concept in mind. It involves working with other talented vendors like florists, makeup artists, hair stylists, planners, and models to create stunning visuals that highlight everyone's work. Think of it as a photoshoot where all the elements—hair, makeup, outfits, flowers, lighting, and of course, the photography—are beautifully curated to tell a story.
Styled shoots often focus on weddings, engagements, or elopements, but they can also dive into creative, unique themes.
Why Should You Do Styled Shoots?
- Build Your Portfolio: Styled shoots give you the chance to create gorgeous, high-quality images without the pressure of a paying client. This is your chance to capture some dream-worthy shots to add to your website, social media, or even a bridal magazine submission.
- Practice and Experiment: If you’re still learning the ropes with lighting, posing, or even just figuring out what lenses work best for certain shots, styled shoots are a wonderful opportunity to experiment. You get to try new things without the stress of “will the client like this?”
- Network and Make Connections: Styled shoots are a great place to meet other industry professionals, like florists, planners, and even other photographers. Building these relationships early on can lead to future collaborations, recommendations, and referrals!
- Gain Confidence: The more you shoot, the more you’ll grow. Styled shoots allow you to practice directing your models, managing the shoot flow, and really finding your voice as a photographer. Each shoot is a step toward gaining the confidence to lead real client shoots.
What to Bring to a Styled Shoot
Okay, let’s talk logistics! Here’s what I always make sure to pack before a styled shoot:
- Camera Bodies: if you can, bring two camera bodies. You never know when something could go wrong with one, and it's always good to have a backup. If you're just beginning, it's okay to just bring what you have!
- Lenses: Pack a variety of lenses depending on the look you’re going for. A 50mm is perfect for portraits, a 24-70mm is great for wide shots (my top rec), and an 85mm lens can give you that dreamy, soft-focus look.
- Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Seriously, bring more than you think you’ll need. There’s nothing worse than running out of storage or power halfway through a shoot!
- Lens Cleaning Kit: Dust, water splashes, and fingerprints happen. Having a quick cleaning kit on hand will keep your gear in tip-top shape. I just keep a few lens wipes in my bag and a microfiber cloth just in case!
- Business Cards: This one’s important! You never know when you’ll meet potential clients or collaborators during a styled shoot. These are networking events, having your business cards on hand to pass out is a simple but powerful way to network and make connections that could turn into future bookings.
- Tripod or Light Stands (optional): If you plan to use flashes or external lights, bring a tripod or light stand to get that perfect shot. This is a totally optional one - remember other photographers will be there too so respect space. I personally don't bring these but it's an option!
- Hot Shoe Phone Holder Attachment: I love this thing! If you plan to use your phone for behind-the-scenes content or need to reference shot lists or ideas while shooting, a hot shoe phone holder attachment is super handy. It lets you attach your phone to your camera’s hot shoe, so you don’t have to juggle devices or take your hands off your camera when you need a quick reference.
- Lighting Gear (Optional): If it’s a styled shoot during the golden hour or indoors where light might be tricky, having a reflector or flash could really elevate the lighting. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just something to add that extra magic to your images.
- At least 5 poses memorized, or notated: every shoot is different, but 99.9% of the time you will need to direct the model for the shots that you want. Having poses and prompts ready to go in in mind will help this go in your favor! Remember, you are creating for your profile with your look!
- Positive Energy: This might not fit in your camera bag, but trust me, it’s just as important. Bring excitement, curiosity, and an open mind. The energy you bring to the shoot sets the tone for the whole day, and the vendors and models will feel that positivity too! There is a high chance that there will be other local beginner photographers there that you can get to know and maybe even develop a friendship with!
How to Grow from Styled Shoots
Styled shoots are not just for building your portfolio—they’re also an incredible opportunity to grow as a photographer! Here’s how you can make the most out of every shoot:
Embrace the Happy Accidents!
Styled shoots are your chance to play around and experiment. Don’t stress if a shot doesn’t turn out as planned—heck, sometimes the “oops” moments end up being the best ones! Every shoot is a learning experience. So, go ahead and make those little mistakes. They’re just stepping stones to getting better. (And let’s be real, we all love a happy accident in photography, right?)
Collaboration > Competition ✨
Styled shoots are all about teamwork! Don’t be shy about bouncing ideas off other photographers, vendors, or models. Share your thoughts, ask for feedback, and be open to new suggestions. The more you communicate, the smoother the whole shoot will go. Plus, you’ll build those invaluable relationships for future projects. Teamwork makes the dream work!
Get Your Organizational Game On
Prep like a pro! Familiarize yourself with the shoot’s details—where it’s at, when it’s happening, and who’s involved. Showing up early to scout the location gives you a chance to find the best light, scope out the scene, and feel like a total shoot ninja. Being organized ensures you’re calm, cool, and collected when it’s go-time!
Find Your Editing Groove
This is your playground for editing too! Whether you’re into light and airy or dark and moody vibes, styled shoots give you the chance to try out different editing styles and refine your aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to push your editing boundaries and experiment with new looks. This is how you start to develop your signature style!
Make New Connections (and Clients!)
Once the shoot wraps up, don’t just pack up and disappear. Make sure to connect with everyone on social media—vendors, models, other photographers. Tag them in your shots and share your work. Building these connections is key to growing your network. Plus, who knows? These friendships could turn into collaborations or referrals down the road!
Have Fun and Stay Curious
Styled shoots are a chance to push your creative boundaries and have FUN! Explore new ideas, try different angles, and let your imagination run wild. The more you stay curious and open-minded, the more your photography will evolve. And hey, if you’re having fun while doing it, that energy will totally show in your photos!
Final Thoughts
Styled shoots are a fantastic way to practice, learn, and grow as a photographer. They offer such a fun, creative space to push your boundaries and connect with other talented professionals in the industry. And as you continue to participate, you’ll build a portfolio full of gorgeous images that represent your unique style.
So, whether you’re shooting your first styled shoot or you’re already a pro at collaborating, remember to stay positive, take lots of pictures, and most importantly—have fun! Photography is all about creativity, and there’s no better way to unleash yours than with styled shoots.
I can’t wait to see what you create and how you grow as a photographer!