E-Commerce Photoshoot Tips
A well-organized e-commerce photoshoot can make all the difference when it comes to showcasing your products in the best light. Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Helen Design for the fourth time, and each shoot has been smoother and more efficient than the last. With careful planning and clear communication, we were able to execute a flawless shoot that delivered stunning results.
Here are some key takeaways from the process, which can help make your next e-commerce shoot a success.
1. Plan Ahead: A Key to Success
The first step in any e-commerce photoshoot is planning. It's essential to determine exactly what type of photos you need before the shoot day. Do you need close-ups of your product, lifestyle shots, or a mix of both? Discuss these details with your photographer in advance so they can plan the shoot accordingly.
For this shoot with Helen Design, we discussed the creative direction, what elements of the products should be highlighted, and what kind of mood we wanted to convey through the images. One important detail was the lighting. Helen requested a “standard” infinite gray background, and my job was to ensure that the lighting was consistent throughout the day to get the exact look they wanted. We made sure to match the lighting and background perfectly for every product shot, keeping everything smooth and cohesive.
2. Organize Outfits and Items Ahead of Time
A smooth photoshoot relies on being well-prepared. One of the biggest time-wasters during a photoshoot is scrambling to find the right clothing or accessories at the last minute.
Helen and I made sure all outfits and products were prepped and ready well before the shoot. This meant not only having the clothing steamed and wrinkle-free but also organizing everything in order of shooting priority. That way, we didn’t waste any time hunting for pieces or trying to figure out what to shoot next.
If you're running an e-commerce business, this step is crucial. Whether you’re working with a model or shooting products on a flat surface, being ready to go will save you hours of shooting time.
Behind the scenes of our e-commerce photoshoot in Icon Studio
3. Understand the Lighting
It’s not just about what the product is but how it’s presented. In e-commerce photography, the lighting can make or break the shot. For Helen's shoot, we decided on a simple, classic look with a gray background, but the lighting had to be perfect to ensure every product detail was captured.
As the photographer, it's my job to make sure the lighting is consistent and suits the vision, and this involves adjusting the light throughout the day to match the aesthetic. Whether it's soft and diffused or bright and direct, getting the right lighting in place means the product will look great and true to life.
4. Know the Poses and Angles You Want
A great e-commerce photoshoot goes beyond just capturing a product—it’s about showcasing the details that matter most. Whether it’s the texture of the fabric, the fit of the clothing, or specific features of the product, it’s important to know what you want to highlight.
Helen and I discussed which elements of her collection should be the focal point of each image. Are we focusing on fabric texture? The fit? The overall look? Knowing this in advance made the shoot more efficient, as I could adjust the lighting and framing to accentuate these key details.
5. Stay Organized with a Shot List
The most important aspect of an e-commerce photoshoot is organization. To ensure no item is missed and every shot is captured, I recommend creating a shot list ahead of time.
For this shoot, Helen and her team came up with their own shooting list, which was fantastic because it allowed us to stay on track and avoid wasting time. We made sure to take photos of the items one by one, checking off each product as it was photographed. This approach keeps things moving efficiently and ensures nothing is left out.
6. Recommend the Right Studio for the Job
Choosing the right location for the photoshoot is just as important as planning the outfits and lighting. Having worked with many studios in Toronto, I know which ones are best suited for certain types of shoots. For Helen’s collection, I recommended a studio that I know would give us exactly the space and lighting we needed to execute the shoot smoothly.
When you’re working with a photographer who knows the best studios to match your needs, the shoot will be much more efficient and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Conclusion
The key to a successful e-commerce photoshoot lies in planning and organization. By discussing the shoot details ahead of time, preparing outfits and products, and creating a clear shot list, you’ll ensure the process goes smoothly and efficiently.
With over 14 years of experience in photography, I specialize in e-commerce photoshoots that help brands elevate their product images and stand out in a competitive online marketplace. Whether you’re a fashion brand or an online retailer, I can help you showcase your products in the best way possible.
Ready for Your Next E-Commerce Shoot?
If you’re looking for a professional e-commerce photographer in Toronto, I’d love to help bring your products to life. Reach out today to discuss how we can make your photoshoot efficient and impactful.
