Why You Should Never Skip the Shooting Prep Stage

When preparing for a photo shoot or recording a video, having a detailed, step-by-step plan is essential. A well-organized list of setups, props, and key shots will save you time, effort, and a whole lot of stress on the day of the shoot.

Create a List of Necessary Props

Ensure that all the required props are listed and ready in advance. For perishable items like fresh flowers or delicate food items, make sure they’re available and in optimal condition for the day of the shoot. Being unprepared can lead to delays or, worse, rescheduling.

Storyboard Key Scenes (and Extras)

When shooting a video, plan all the key shots with a storyboard. While things can change in editing, having a solid foundation ensures that the main scenes are captured. Be sure to also plan for extra shots, if time permits—it’s always better to have more footage than too little when you're in the editing room.

Double-Check Camera Settings

Before you begin, verify all your photo or video settings. Ensure your video frame rate and resolution are correct, white balance is set, and the shutter settings match your lighting setup (to avoid surprises, like your flash not triggering). Check and recheck all equipment so there are no technical issues later.

Test Your Lighting Setup

Lighting can make or break a shoot, so ensure everything is positioned and functioning correctly. Test your lights, both for photography and videography, and adjust for any reflective surfaces or tricky shadows. If you’re using natural light, monitor how it changes during the day and plan accordingly.

Prepare for Post-Production

Think ahead about the editing process. If specific effects or adjustments are needed in post-production, make sure the footage or photos are shot accordingly. For instance, if you plan to add overlays, ensure you leave enough negative space in your compositions. By prepping for post-production during the shoot, you’ll save time later and get better results.

The prep stage of a shoot is crucial for ensuring everything runs smoothly. From planning your props and key scenes to double-checking settings and preparing for post-production, taking these steps in advance will save you headaches and help you deliver high-quality results.