Three Steps to Get Started on Your Next Styled Shoot

Let’s be honest, dreaming of styled shoots is what’s been keeping me sane throughout these uncertain times and a newly clear schedule.  It is a time to stretch myself creatively, foster genuine connections with vendors, gain content and name recognition through publications. 

Thinking of planning your own? Here are three steps to get you started.

Identify a Need 

Whether you want to get away from what is trendy at the moment, in the process of rebranding or expanding your service area--really understand the goal of the images and use that to point you in the right direction.

They say dress for the job you want, I say the same works for styled shoots.  Use this as an opportunity to attract your ideal client.   When you are just starting out, your content library may be lacking diversity.  Use styled shoots to thoughtfully showcase BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ couples that will, in turn, show potential clients that you are excited to work with them.  Is there a new venue that you can’t wait to work in? Reach out and collaborate with the owners for a shoot that works with both of your brands.  Vendors rolling out new packages? Work with them to create marketing material for their launch.  It’s all about seeing a need in your business, or another’s, and filling it.

Dream Big, Then Pare Down

Enormous floral installs, dresses straight from Bridal Fashion Week and show-stopping views are the dream, right? But practicality takes precedence.  Really think about what elements are going to make the most impact, lean on your contacts and friends in the industry (especially those who are at a similar level in their business) and be willing to chip in on expenses.

My best tips: scour Instagram for companies / vendors / small creatives you love, make a sincere ask explaining the goal of the shoot and their role in it, be frank about your budget, and be “okay” if it doesn't work.  Schedules, marketing budgets and brand goals all come into play--instead of being discouraged, see it as a chance to connect with another business.

Plan for Publication

Where are the images going?  Having a home for the content will help when sourcing vendors, but you need to do your homework. Look at the photographer’s editing style, the overall feel of the shoot and the model(s) / couple being featured to guide your search for media outlets.  Read through submission guidelines thoroughly (and follow their rules), view current / past features for trends and what they have already showcased in order to do something different and remember, there is always a benefit to keeping it local.

I adore styled shoots, lovingly referring to them as “dress up for grown ups”, but in order to make them work hard for you--you have to put in the work.  See our Handcrafted Love Styled Shoot with Rebecca Ames at Market Hall and our French Inspired Styled Shoot with Michelle and Sara at Walnut Hill for more. 

Want to collaborate?

I’m all ears! Drop me a line at megan@hoseahousecollective.com

xo, megan

Photo by Michelle and Sara Photography