Sneha Jasrasaria Quick answer
To prepare for a studio shoot, set a clear goal, make a shot list, bring clean products and props, plan outfits and backups, confirm the set and lighting style with the studio, and book enough time. A good plan lets you shoot a month of content in a few hours.
Key takeaways
- A shot list saves the most time on shoot day
- Clean and prep products before you arrive
- Plan outfits, props and backgrounds in advance
- Shoot both vertical and horizontal versions
Studio time is valuable. A little planning before the day turns a few hours into a month or more of content.
1. Set the goal
What is the shoot for? Website product photos, Instagram reels, a lookbook, LinkedIn headshots or a podcast? The goal decides the set, lighting and shots.
2. Make a shot list
Write every shot you need:
| Shot | Format | Background | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero product on white | Photo | White cyclorama | Front and 45 degree |
| Product in use | Reel | Lifestyle set | Hands only |
| Founder intro | Video | Interview set | Two mics |
Share it with the studio and crew before the day.
3. Prep your products
- Clean every product: no dust, fingerprints or torn labels.
- Bring extras of hero products.
- Iron fabrics and steam clothes.
- Bring packaging if you want unboxing shots.
4. Plan props and styling
- Props that match your brand colours.
- Plates, cloths, flowers or textures for food and lifestyle shots.
- Outfits for models or yourself, plus backups.
- Makeup and grooming kit.
5. Decide the look
Share reference images: bright and airy, dark and moody, colourful, minimal. This helps the team set lights quickly.
6. Shoot for every format
Shoot vertical (9:16) for reels and stories, square or 4:5 for feed posts, and horizontal for website banners and YouTube.
7. Plan the day
- Arrive early to set up.
- Shoot hero shots first while energy is high.
- Group shots by set to save lighting changes.
- Keep a phone camera rolling for behind the scenes clips.
Types of studio shoots
- Product: e-commerce, catalogues, social posts.
- Fashion: lookbooks, model shoots, new collections.
- Personal branding: headshots and content for founders and professionals.
- Podcast and interviews: multi-camera setups with good audio.
Book Cygnus Studio
Cygnus Studio in Guwahati has sets for product, fashion, personal branding and podcast shoots, with lights and equipment ready. See Cygnus Studio for spaces and booking.