Everything You Need To Know About Styling A Photoshoot

  • The Blue Rooms Manchester

Knowing how to style a photo shoot should be a skill that all photographers should try to master.

Knowing how to style a photo shoot should be a skill that all photographers should try to master. Styling involves a person’s ability to arrange a scene that’s aesthetically pleasing. It can be anything from wardrobe to nails all the way to props and background settings. Not every photo shoot or photographer has the abilities (or budget) to hire an outside stylist, so knowing the basics involved is essential. Here are our top five tips for styling a photoshoot:

Create A Styling Toolbox

Every stylist has a toolbox that’s unique to their craft. Include supplies such as scissors, tape, pens, pins, misting spray bottle, cosmetics, accessories and more.

Have A Location & Theme In Mind

Before even styling a photoshoot, it’s very important to know the theme of the shoot first. What message or feeling are you looking to portray? What story do you want to tell? Is there a specific color palette involved? Every element within the photograph should be cohesive with the theme.

Knowing the location of the photoshoot is key in order to be equipped with the right tools. Choosing a backdrop that contrasts with the subject will make them stand out more. On the other hand, if the backdrop is to overpowering the viewer can lose focus on the subject itself.

Set The Mood & Adjust The Lighting

The mood of the photoshoot is directly impacted by the lighting. For added drama, introduce light coming in from just one side to cast a strong shadow. If the mood is much softer, try using natural light if possible. Warm lighting generally brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the photograph.

Styling The People & Products

Props are optional, but they are very useful. Generally, less is more when it comes to how many props to use. Having other elements in a product photo adds interest without taking away from the subject.

Styling a client who needs help getting ready for their shoot comes down to their outfit, hair, and makeup (if necessary). Classic contemporary colors and patterns are the ideal choices for traditional photoshoot themes while the outfit choice for a more specific theme such as an active-wear shoot will need to reflect that setting.