Is your content creation photography game in need of an upgrade? You’ve landed on the right blog post.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started on your influencer journey, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about preparing for a photography session to get the right content – from finding the right photographer (psst – I’d love to help!), choosing outfits, location scouting, and more.
As a photographer based in NYC, I’ve photographed quite a few social media influencers who need content for their feed. Keep reading to learn all about how to prepare for content creation photography!
Meet the Fashion Influencer: Kristina Ang
Kristina is a social video coordinator at Hearst Magazines and Harpers Bazaar. For her session, we headed down to SOHO on a Saturday afternoon and it turned out to be the perfect time.
It was a bit windy which actually ended up working out great for us. We got to play around a lot with different lighting techniques (full sun, backlit, fully shaded) as the sun shone off and on throughout the session!
Check out Kristina on IG: @kristinamichelleang
Dress by Anna Quan
How to Prepare for Content Creation Photography
Define your goals ahead of time
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of defining your goals for your photoshoot before it happens! It’s so easy to get excited about the creative brainstorming and planning process (trust me, as a fellow creative, I get it), but without a clear end goal in mind, you may end up with photos that don’t align with your brand, message, or needs.
Take some time to think about your goals. Are your photos to share a new product? To showcase a specific lifestyle? To just have filler content on your feed?
Knowing this ahead of time will help guide the photoshoot and ensure that we capture the right shots that truly showcase your brand message. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
Curate scroll-stopping outfits
Picking photos is one of the more fun parts of prepping for a content photoshoot. It can also be just as important as the location and props you choose. You want your photos to be scroll-stopping and to achieve this, your outfits have to be on point.
Curate clothes that will highlight elements of your brand and make you feel confident during the shoot. You don’t want to be fidgeting with a pair of jeans that don’t fit you right or be preoccupied with how your shirt scratches you every time you move.
Collaborate with your photographer
If you want to get the most out of your photoshoot, you need to collaborate with your photographer. Share your vision and your brand’s message. This way, your photographer can tailor the shoot accordingly to capture your brand or the products you want to showcase in the best light possible.
Collaborating with your photographer will also increase the chances of getting those perfect shots and save you time and money in the long run!
I love to take time to go through the entire design process with my clients. I send you a questionnaire to get an idea of what your vision is and then we have a design consultation going over everything from outfits to locations, poses, and more!
Consider meaningful locations
Meaningful and relevant locations can add more personality to your content, making your photos stand out on a social media feed. Whether it’s a local coffee shop where you love getting your morning coffee or a curated studio backdrop, thoughtful location choices can elevate your content and chance the entire mood of it.
Take the time to think about what locations will truly enhance your photos and make them unique – your audience will appreciate it. This is also one of those things that your photographer can help out with!
Plan your makeup and hairstyle
Whether you’re going for a natural, no-makeup look or a bold, colorful style, taking the time to plan out the glam for your look can help you feel confident and camera-ready. You can even work with a hair and makeup artist if you want to take it completely off your plate.
By planning ahead like this, you can create a more cohesive and visually interesting collection of pics that will showcase your unique style.
Rest well before the photoshoot
This one may go without saying, but you’ll want to rest well before your photoshoot. Not only will this help you look and feel your best, but it will ensure you have the energy to bring your A-game.
Trust me, I’ve seen the difference that a good night’s sleep can make in the final results. Feel free to treat yourself to a relaxing evening the night before, put your phone on DND, and get some rest – your photos will thank you.
Prepare a Pinterest board shot list
This is one of the tasks that your photographer will most likely collaborate with you on, but it can help you a lot! Not only does it help you to identify the specific shots that you want to capture during your photoshoot, but it also gives your photographer a better understanding of your vision and aesthetic.
Plus, it also means that we won’t miss any important shots that you had in mind for your photoshoot.
Pick props and accessories that don’t distract
Think about the purpose of your content and what will enhance it without taking away from it. This can mean selecting props that complement your outfit or enhance it without taking away from it.
Practice poses
This may sound simple (and maybe even a little odd), but trust me, a little bit of pose practicing can go a long way. When you spend a few moments experimenting and exploring different poses before the shoot, you start to feel a bit more confident, which can carry over to the camera, creating a more natural and authentic look.
Bring essentials
It’s always a good idea to pack a bag with some essentials because you never know what you may need. Some key items that you should bring include extra outfits and accessories, props, makeup and hair supplies, and any other specific items that relate to your brand or content.
Stay true to your brand
Remember to always prioritize your brand. Think about what sets you apart, what represents you, and what your audience will want to see from you. Staying true to your brand will not only make for better photos, but will keep your audience engaged and strengthen the connection that they have with you.
Check the weather forecast
Always be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand! This is even more important if you were planning on having some outdoor locations. Luckily, most outdoor photoshoots in the rain can still be saved by either 1 ) embracing the rain or 2 ) bringing clear umbrellas!
Be sure to always have a plan B just in case the weather does change last-minute. (Your photographer is also always prepared for this!)
Communicate your comfort levels
Last but certainly not least, communication is always key. Your photographer wants to make sure that you’re feeling comfortable and confident during your photoshoot. That’s why it’s important to discuss any concerts or preferences you have prior to the shoot.
This can be as simple as wanting to avoid a certain angle or pose – our goal is to make sure that you are feeling your best. This will not only lead to better photos but also a more enjoyable experience overall.
Final Thoughts: Content Creation Pictures
Let’s be honest; creating high-quality content with how fast-paced the world is today is no easy task, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped for a content creation shoot with your photographer. I hope this article has given you a comprehensive guide on content creation photography!
Remember, great photos can make or break an online presence and brand, so it’s important to put in the effort and time to create those scroll-stopping images. Whether you’re a blogger, social media influencer, or biz owner, capturing beautiful and engaging images will not only attract more followers and customers but will also elevate the overall aesthetic of your brand.
If you’re still searching for a content creation photographer to co-create images with you, don’t hesitate to reach out – I would love to help bring your vision to life. Click here to get in touch!
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How to Prepare for Content Creation Photography
