A photograph is freezing a moment forever in time through the magic of a camera lens.
However, without proper planning, that capture may turn out to be disappointing,
especially in a themed photoshoot. Here are five tips for having a successful themed
photoshoot:
1. Brainstorm, make a wish list and plan your shoot
Envisioning and planning can make or ruin any photoshoot, more so, a themed
photoshoot. If you are the customer, you need to brainstorm ideas with the
photographer and explicitly discuss what you’re looking to capture. This adds clarity,
helps in detailing, and enables the photographer to plan the flow of the shoot.
Time, location, and props are some of the practical aspects that need to be agreed
upon. Discussing costumes and gathering accessories like signage, placards,
decorations, and backdrops that would be required for the photo shoot is essential.
2. Fix a budget
Always advise the client to have a budget in place, and to stick to it. Buying props,
getting raw materials to make props, commuting to the location, decor, and equipment
charges must be accommodated for in the budget, with sufficient buffer for any possible
overruns. Sit with the client while laying out the budget and be upfront while discussing
the cost to avoid any misunderstanding with them.
3. Location hunting
This is an essential part of planning for a themed photo shoot. Not only should the
location complement the desired theme, but together with the client, gather crucial facts
about the area to ensure its feasibility. Ask the client to visit the location beforehand to
be on the safer side. Lighting, weather, distance, and traveling time are important
factors that should be planned out meticulously. This will also help you in deciding on
the kind of camera equipment and supplements that needs to be carried along on the
day of the shoot.
4. Be flexible and work with elements
On the day of the shoot, advise the clients to have an open mind and enjoy the shoot.
This will help create candid moments, and you can work better with the available
elements. Pictures should be narrative and grab attention even without using captions.
Poses and props must fuse with the background, lights, reflections, and shadows. The
angles or the perspective from which the photo is clicked can radically alter the tone of
the picture.
Keep talking with your client and stay open to their suggestions and improvisations. Set
reasonable expectations and take a call on the feasibility of impulsive ideas. Always
remember that for the client, themed shoots are expensive affairs. So help them enjoy
the shoot and relish the experience.
5. Have fun and enjoy the shoot
When you are happy it shows!! Wear the best costume that suits the theme, location
and something you’re comfortable in. Play around with the props, have a fun time with
your friends/partner/baby. Pose according to the photographer’s instructions, yes, but
you could suggest a few activities as well. Maybe have a great day planned, something
that you could do that is in alignment with your theme. Unplanned shots turn out to be
the best shots.