The Ultimate Photoshoot Packing Checklist: 5 Must-Have Items You Can't Leave Without
For any photoshoot, preparedness is key to obtaining images you can indefinitely treasure. In all aspects of life, I stand by the phrase: "Hope for the best, prepare for the worst."
95% of the time, photoshoots flow seamlessly. However, sometimes coffee likes to jump out of its cup and onto your brand new white pants. Or, the button on your jacket wants a taste of freedom. Knowing accidents happen, I advise clients to bring extra outfit options and props to their shoot. What are these items to prepare, you may ask? Let's dive in!
The Client Checklist
Here are some essential items to bring to your photoshoot:
Water bottles: No matter the weather, you will need one per person, minimum! We don't need a dehydration devistation during your session.
Snacks: Though an hour of shooting may not seem super strenous, trust me when I say that by the end, your stomach will be demanding its reward for making in through. Bring a snack you enjoy: chips, bars, fruit rolls - I love a good bag of freeze-dried strawberries or yogurt-covered raisins.
One extra outfit (minimum): Remember my mentioning of a spontenous coffee spill? You may not be commonly clumsy, but somehow the fates like to turn on photoshoot day. Having an extra outfit (i.e. spare shirt, skirt, or pair of pants that fit with your other outfits) on hand may be the difference between a canceled shoot and a successfully concluded one. For advice on compiling outfits, read "Nail Your Photoshoot Looks: Style Yourself with Confidence."
Touch-Up items: Smears, smudges, and stains, oh my! Touch up items are a must: bring your makeup, a brush or comb, and believe it or not, your toothbrush (you'll thank yourself later). I always love carrying my Rescue Kit, prepared with makeup shields, lint rollers, deodorant-removing wipes, double-stick tape - you know, the essentials for troubleshooting at any fashion session.
Comfy shoes: If you're wearing heels or dress shoes, an alternative shoe to wear when walking between locations is a MUST (flip flops, slides, or slip-on tennis shoes become your best friend on set).
Don't worry, no need to write this all down BECAUSE it's all right here: Download and print the Client Checklist PDF to help in your photoshoot planning!
Looking to Spice Up your Photos? Add Props!
Champagne: Who doesn't love a good celebratory pop during any occasion? If you're booking with me, inquire about a complimentary champagne bottle!
Biodegradable Confetti: Like Champagne, confetti adds a dynamic pop to photos.
Flowers: A bouquet or a single stem adds a pop of color and character.
Blanket: For those shooting outdoors, cozy up with this cute prop or use it as a picnic blanket!
Ensure Your Fur Babies are Covered
Leashes and harnesses: We will determine the leash protocols before attending a location. However, it's always good to have their leash, collar, and harness.
Treats and Toys: Bring a treat or toy reward to help get your pet's attention during photos.
Water bowl: Just like humans need water, so do pets.
Portable Kennel: Sometimes, pets need a moment to themselves. Bringing their space with them can help with any anxiety they may experience.
Pet Shoes: If on rocky terrain or hot surfaces, shoes for pets may be an excellent option to bring (if they feel comfortable wearing them).
Bathroom Bag: Animals have accidents! Whether shooting indoors or outdoors, we might need to clean up number one or two.
Suggestion: Indoors is my preference for animal shoots for controlled environment and temperature.
Bonus: What's In A Photographer's Bag?
Speaker: Let's bump some tunes together!
Umbrella: On the off chance it rains in dry and sunny Arizona, an umbrella comes in handy AND can make a great prop.
Hand and Face Wipes: You never know what you're going to touch, so disinfectant wipes are a great option when on the go.
Extra Equipment: Batteries, Lenses, and Camera Body - I am ready for anything!
Reflector and Flash: For an extra burst of light in your photos.
Happy Photoshooting!
I hope your shoot goes all in accordance to plan. Though if not... you're prepared!
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