Thinking of Booking a Product Shoot? Read This First

If you’ve ever thought “we just need a few product photos”, you’re definitely not alone. But after the first call, most of my clients realise there’s a little more to think about – and that’s a good thing.

That first chat isn’t just a chance to say hello (although I really like to put a face to a name straight away). It’s where we start shaping the kind of imagery that doesn’t just show your products, but sells them.

Here’s what usually comes up when someone enquires about a product shoot with me.

What makes your product different?

Most people come in saying they just want clean, simple lifestyle photos. But the brands that stand out are the ones that know exactly who they’re speaking to.

So I’ll ask

• What makes your product different?
• Who are your customers?
• What kind of feeling do you want the visuals to give off?

The answers help us to style the shoot in a way that feels intentional, not generic.

Where should we shoot it?

Sometimes a studio is perfect (and I’m pretty sure you’ve already seen that I mention my own studio quite a bit). But if you’re selling something like bedding, kitchenware, supplements or home goods, a real home setting might make more sense. Especially if you’re looking for lifestyle type photography rather than plain backgrounds.

On the call, we’ll talk through options like

Studio vs a real location house
Airbnb vs professional shoot spaces
What kind of rooms or settings we’ll need—bedroom, kitchen, outdoors

I can help source beautiful locations (I’ve got a list of favourites) or suggest ways to make an Airbnb work if you’re keeping things more flexible.

The right setting can completely change the outcome of your product shoot, so it’s worth spending time here.

Do you need people in the photos?

You don’t have to use models – but if your product is designed to be used, it often helps to include people in the imagery.

That might mean

• A couple of “real” people who reflect your audience
• Business owners or creators happy to help in exchange for images
• Or professional models, if the budget allows

We’ll talk about what makes the most sense for your brand and your goals.

What about props, styling and video?

You don’t need to figure it all out on your own. I’ll help you plan

• What props we’ll need on shoot day
• Whether we need to include things like smoothie makers, gym gear, skincare, or silk pillowcases
• How we can create short-form videos while we shoot—perfect for social media and websites

If you go ahead with booking a product shoot, we’ll have a full planning call to map everything out so you feel clear and prepared before the camera even comes out.

What I want you to know

You don’t need a big team or a massive budget to get scroll-stopping product photography. But you do need a plan – and that starts with a conversation.

If you’ve got a new product launching or you’re ready to move away from stock photos and you’re thinking of booking a product shoot, I’d love to hear what you’re working on. You bring the product. I’ll bring the ideas, the camera, and a whole lot of strategy.