Behind the Scenes: The Work Behind a Photo Shoot – From Start to Finish

As a photographer, I often get asked about the process behind a photo shoot. While the final images may look effortless, the reality is that it takes a lot of behind-the-scenes work to create those perfect shots. From the initial planning to the final edits, every step of a photo shoot requires attention to detail, creativity, and hours of hard work.

If you've ever wondered what goes into a photoshoot, or if you’re thinking about booking your own, let me take you behind the lens and show you exactly what it takes to make it all happen.

1. Pre-Shoot Planning & Preparation

The process actually starts well before the camera even clicks.

Client Consultation

Whether you’re doing a personal shoot, a portrait session, or working with a business on branding, the first step is always a consultation. This could be a quick chat or an in-depth meeting, depending on the type of shoot. For me, this is a time to get to know the client, understand their vision, and discuss the details:

• What is the purpose of the shoot?
• What’s the desired style, mood, and tone?
• What kind of location or backdrop is preferred?
• What’s the timeline for delivery?

This helps me gauge exactly what’s needed to bring the client’s vision to life, and it allows me to plan accordingly.

Location Scouting & Set Design

Next, I begin to think about the setting. If we’re shooting indoors, I’ll plan the setup, choose the right backdrop, props, and lighting to match the desired look. If we’re shooting on-location, I scout the area in advance to find the best spots, check the lighting conditions, and make sure the location fits the client’s style.

For studio shoots, lighting design becomes a crucial element. I’ll think through which modifiers, gels, and light setups will work best to create the mood the client desires. If the shoot involves hair and makeup, I’ll coordinate with the stylist to ensure everything flows seamlessly.

Wardrobe and Styling

For fashion or beauty photography, styling is a key element. We’ll discuss wardrobe choices—what to wear, color palettes, how different outfits will photograph. A stylist may be brought on to assist in choosing the perfect clothing and accessories, while also ensuring everything fits properly. This may require multiple fittings or discussions on the type of look that will complement the model’s features and the overall theme.

2. The Day of the Shoot: Getting Everything in Place

Once all the planning is done, it’s time for the real work to begin—shoot day!

Setting Up the Studio or Location

On shoot day, I arrive early to set up the studio or location. If it's a studio shoot, this involves assembling the lighting setup, positioning backdrops, checking the camera gear, and ensuring everything is ready to go. If we're shooting outdoors or on-location, it means setting up portable lighting, reflectors, and any props that will help make the shot look its best.

It’s also a good time to check the space for any clutter, distracting elements, or anything that could throw off the look of the shot. All of this can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the complexity of the shoot.

Hair, Makeup & Wardrobe

For fashion and beauty shoots, hair and makeup are often done by professionals who work with the client or model. This part of the process usually takes about an hour, but it can take longer if we’re going for a more elaborate look. Having a professional on set allows me to focus on getting the best shot, while the stylist works their magic.

While the client is getting ready, I finalize any remaining details, adjust lighting, and double-check the camera settings to make sure everything’s perfect for the shoot.

The Photo Shoot Itself

Once everyone is ready, it’s time for the photoshoot to begin! This part of the process can take anywhere from one hour to several hours, depending on the complexity of the shoot, the number of looks or poses, and how much direction is needed from the photographer.

While photographing, I’m constantly adjusting the lighting, camera settings, and directing the subject to ensure that every shot is flawless. I might take hundreds of photos throughout the session to make sure we get the shot. With portrait or beauty photography, it’s all about capturing the subject's personality, angles, and expressions, and that can take time. I make sure to give feedback and guidance on poses and expressions, keeping everything natural and relaxed.

3. Post-Shoot: The Editing Process

Once the shoot is over, the work doesn’t stop. In fact, post-production can sometimes take even more time than the shoot itself.

Selecting the Best Shots

After the shoot, I go through every image and select the best shots. Depending on the session, I may have hundreds (or even thousands) of photos to review. This process can take several hours to go through, pick the top shots, and narrow them down for editing.

Editing the Photos

Editing is one of the most time-consuming parts of the process. For every image, I adjust the exposure, white balance, and contrast, and make any necessary color corrections. I’ll then remove distractions from the background, smooth skin, enhance details, and ensure that the final image matches the client's vision.

For beauty photography, retouching often involves more detailed work like skin smoothing, hair adjustments, and correcting lighting or shadows. This is where my creative eye really comes into play, as I aim to enhance the natural beauty of the subject while staying true to the original shot.

Finalizing the Images

Once the edits are complete, I export the images in the appropriate resolution and size for printing or sharing. For many clients, I’ll create a digital gallery or deliver the photos directly to them through an online platform. This step also includes preparing any files for print or specific social media formats if needed.

4. Delivering the Final Product

Once the images are ready, it’s time to deliver them to the client. This can be done via a digital gallery for easy viewing and downloading, or I might provide a USB or physical prints depending on what was agreed upon. I make sure to follow up with the client to confirm that they’re happy with the final result and to address any additional requests they may have.

Final Thoughts: Why It’s Worth It

While there’s a lot of work that goes into a photo shoot, the satisfaction of seeing a client’s vision come to life makes it all worthwhile. From pre-shoot planning to post-production, every step of the process is an opportunity to showcase creativity, attention to detail, and technical skill. For me, the goal is always to produce images that my clients will cherish for years to come—images that are worth the time and effort spent making them perfect.

If you’re considering a photo shoot or working with a photographer, now you know just how much goes into creating that stunning image you’ll treasure forever!

Jamie Goode
Beauty Photographer