So to prepare for it I had a few things to do. I hope these are helpful to you as you set up your next shoot.
*Models: Mine were lil' ladies. Ages 5 + 2.
*Products: Photograph product that is hard to photograph on your own. It's hard for me to photograph my aprons on my own. The customer needs to be able to see the apron + envision themself wearing it.
*Location: The location I chose was a local park. It had historical houses and white picket fences which is great for texture and depth in a picture. It simply adds interest to a picture.
*Props: A few days before the shoot I thought of adding lollipops as their prop. I made a quick trip to Cracker Barrel + bought them. I was so excited I let out a squeal in my car.
Know what you want from the photoshoot + communicate that to the photographer. Make sure he/she knows your vision for the shoot. Don't rely on him/her to do all the work. Have several ideas of staged shots.
A photographer will keep shooting + get natural shots which sometimes turn out to be the best. Like this one.
*Self pics: I didn't want pics of myself but I knew it would be good to have on hand to send in to editors when I'm making my pitch. I will be honest, I struggled with being in front of the camera {by myself} but Amy did great + I'm pleased with the pictures.
*Research: Stop over at Etsy & look up similar items. See how their shots are staged. What props did they use, what is in their background etc.
*Step back: I love taking pictures. Having the iPhone makes it easier to get behind the scene pics. This allows you to see all that is involved with getting the right shot.
*Photographer: Photographers will charge or not charge. Be willing to pay their costs. Budget for fabulous pictures that will capture your products. Don't talk them into giving you a deal. That's tacky. Some will simply do you a favor + not charge you. Know that you are blessed. If that is the case, give them product or a gift certificate to your shop. It's the least that you can do!