The Pre-Shoot Playbook: Look Confident, Feel Confident

We believe your shoot day should feel like a celebration, not a scramble. Whether it’s your first time on camera or your fiftieth, walking into a photo or video shoot prepared makes all the difference, not just in how you feel in the moment, but in how your visuals reflect your brand.

Here’s our guide to showing up calm, confident, and ready to shine. Without second-guessing yourself on what to wear, bring, or expect.

Define Your Vision First

Before we talk outfits, lighting, or camera angles, start with the why. Getting clear on your purpose helps the whole creative team rally around one shared goal.

Ask yourself:

• What’s the purpose of this shoot?

• Where will this content live? Website, Instagram, YouTube, pitch deck?

• What vibe do you want to communicate? Polished, warm, bold, or experimental?

• Who are you hoping to connect with?

Your shoot is your chance to show your brand without explaining it. When we’re aligned on vision upfront, everything else falls into place.

Plan the Details (Pre-Production Is Everything)

The most effortless-looking shoots are the most organized. Small steps in pre-production go a long way.

Here’s what we suggest:

• Shot list: Even a rough outline helps us stay efficient. Need headshots, product B-roll, or behind-the-scenes lifestyle shots? Let’s schedule it.

• Mood board: Bring Pinterest inspiration or a few reference images. It gets everyone speaking the same visual language immediately.

• Day-of schedule: A timeline ensures we stay on track, with time for outfit changes, snacks, or even a quick dog walk if your furry coworker joins.

Preparation reduces surprises and frees up space for creativity on the day of the shoot.

Prepping for On-Camera Success

Being in front of the camera can feel awkward—but it doesn’t have to. A little mental and physical prep goes a long way.

• Rest & hydration: Get a full night’s sleep and drink plenty of water. Skip alcohol the night before to avoid inflammation.

• Outfit choices: Pick 2–3 options that reflect your brand and feel like you. Solids and minimal patterns work best. Bonus points if they’re steamed and ready.

• Hair & skin prep: Haircuts, color touch-ups, or skincare treatments ensure you look like your best self, not a version that feels unfamiliar.

• Optional stylists: If you want a makeup artist or stylist, we have trusted vendors to recommend.

Most of our clients tell us their shoots were way more fun than they expected. So don’t stress, just show up!

Collaborate With Your Creative Team

You’re not in this alone. A shoot is a co-creation, and communication is key.

• Share ideas: Inspiration, props, or reference links help us tailor everything to you.

• Ask questions: Unsure what content you need? Should there be a voiceover? We’ve got answers.

• Trust the process: Once vision and logistics are aligned, let go a little. We’ll guide you through every frame.

When collaboration flows, the day feels fun, productive, and creative. Plus, you get visuals that truly represent your brand.

Your Pre-Shoot Checklist

A quick checklist to keep things stress-free:

• Confirm outfits and accessories ahead of time

• Bring props, products, or tools you want featured

• Share mood boards or reference links

• Hydrate, sleep well, and plan something relaxing the night before

• Double-check address, call time, and parking

Let’s Make Some Magic

Your brand deserves visuals as intentional as everything else you’ve built. Thoughtful preparation lets you show up with clarity, confidence, and maybe a little swagger. We’ll handle the lighting, gear, and creative direction—you focus on being you.

Got a shoot coming up? Let’s chat and bring your vision to life.