Photo Shoot: Behind the Scenes Blogger Style

 

Social Media makes taking pictures look so easy. It’s definitely not just showing up, taking a pic, and being done. It’s a complete process. There’s actually a lot of work and planning that goes into putting a shoot together. This past weekend I had a photo shoot downtown, Camden SC. Today I want to share a behind the scenes look at what actually goes into a blogger photo shoot session. 

 Step 1: Planning Your Outfits (1-2 hours)

For a typical shoot I will usually shoot 3-5 outfits. A few days before my photo shoot, I start prep by pulling all my outfits from my wardrobe needed for the shoot, along with my shoes, bags, and accessories. The day before my shoot is my try on session. It's a must to see how the look comes together, while practicing my pose for each fit. 

Time: The time planning your outfits will vary, depending on what type of look you are trying to achieve. 

Tip for planning your outfits:

 Pick out the key pieces in your wardrobe, and build your look off of that.  

That pair of color pumps you just purchased. Maybe you have a new colorful sundresses inspired for spring/summer. A new handbag you wanna show off. What colors or textures would help stand out that item in your look?

The packing of the bags    (30 mins - 1 hour)

I usually take three bags when I go out. One for makeup, one for shoes, and another for clothing. I always iron my clothing the day before. Hang your dresses and slacks immediately after ironing. I prepack the day before to prevent from forgetting anything. If something can not be packed the day before, use sticky notes as reminders so that you wont leave anything behind. That's the worst feeling showing up to a shoot without something you truly need.

                             

Location: (30 mins - 1 hour)

My location is inspired by my try-on looks. During my try on session, I'm typically thinking of locations that will resonate well and make things pop! Typical questions like: If I’m heading into downtown Camden or Columbia, how would I style for the post? Will it be business inspired or casual? How would I bring color into my outfit or the scenery?

Also consider the following:

1.Is the location easy to get to? Try to avoid high traffic areas and places that are too far away.

2. Is there a lot of parking or small local shops near by to change looks. If its a rather private area, you may even be able to change in your car. 

3. What attracts you to the location?

Think of ways that will make you different from the next blogger or influencer. Make sure there is something about your location that will make your pictures standout from the rest. Whether its a back drop, city life, a flower garden, or ocean. Think of elements that will add a pop to your photos.

POSE TIP:

Start practicing your poses in a mirror with the outfits on. By doing so, it allows you to see what pose will work for the outfit, and it will also make shoot day more smoother by having a plan. 

If you're in a new city or state, goggle or ask around about ideas for your travel inspired shoot. You can also use Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration. My photographer and I usually sit down before the shoot to discuss ideas that I'm aiming for. Sometimes poses work and sometimes they do not. There's also times when I let her free style and do her own thing. She tends to have a good eye as well for things. This blogging thing is definitely a learn as you go. It's all about learning and finding out what works best for you. I hope this post with my tips helps and inspires you for your next photo session. Please keep me in the know if any of the above helped you in any way.

Much Love,

Dana Capri