How to Get the Most Out of Your Product Photography Shoot

Agata Pec
Jul 4
2 min read

Hey there! So, you’ve decided to invest in a product photography photo shoot—awesome move! Whether you’re launching something new, refreshing your brand, or just need to level up your visuals, a well-prepared shoot can make a huge difference.

Over the years, I’ve found that the most successful shoots always start with a bit of thoughtful prep. Don’t worry—it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to set yourself (and your photographer!) up for success:

an editorial photograph of black and orange nike trainers — A well planned editorial for Runner's World magazine

1. Know What You Want

Sounds obvious, right? But you'd be surprised how often this part gets skipped. Before we shoot, take a bit of time to think through what you actually need. Are you after clean, e-comm shots? Bold, lifestyle images? Something quirky and creative? Having a clear vision helps us work faster, smarter, and gives you photos that actually do what you need them to do.

2. Create a Simple Brief

You don’t need to write a novel, but a quick, easy-to-follow brief goes a long way. Include your goals, a few visual references (Pinterest is great for this), and notes on what kind of vibe you're after. It doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to be clear.

3. Shot Lists Are Gold

A shot list is basically our map for the day. It keeps us on track and makes sure we don’t miss anything. Even a rough bullet-point list of what you want photographed on your product photography photo shoot (angles, close-ups, group shots, etc.) is super helpful.

4. Props Matter

The right props can totally elevate your shoot. Think about textures, backgrounds, and anything that helps tell your product’s story. It could be as simple as a linen cloth or as specific as a vintage spoon. If you’re not sure what to bring, I’m always happy to brainstorm together.

creative still life photography of skincare products splashing in water — advertorial for Body Shop

5. Bring Fresh Products

This one’s important: always bring new, unused products. Cameras are unforgiving—scratches, smudges, or slightly worn packaging will show up. Bring backups if you can, just in case something gets damaged or doesn’t photograph well.

At the end of the day, the more we prepare up front, the more fun (and productive!) the shoot day will be. I’m here to make your product look its absolute best—and with a little prep, we can make magic happen.

Got a shoot in mind? Let’s talk!