Planning Your Studio Photoshoot
Everything You Need To Know
Whether you’re planning a photoshoot for the first time or returning with a bigger brief, this page covers everything worth thinking about before you arrive: concept, shot list, what to bring, who to brief, and what to expect on the day. The more prepared you are, the further your hours go.
At a Glance
A quick reference before your shoot day. Each point is covered in more detail below.
Concept, Mood Board & Shot List
The most successful photoshoots are the ones where everyone arrives knowing what they want. Planning a photoshoot properly — concept locked, references gathered, shot list written — means less time figuring it out in the studio and more time actually shooting.
Define Your Concept
Decide the purpose of your shoot first — website imagery, social content, a lookbook, portfolio work, or a product catalogue. The answer shapes everything: backdrop choice, lighting style, crew size, and how long you’ll need.
Build a Mood Board
A Pinterest board, Google Slides deck, or simple PDF with references is one of the most useful things you can bring. It gets everyone aligned quickly and helps Robbie understand the lighting direction before the first shot is taken. Bring it on your phone or laptop.
Write a Shot List
List every shot you need, in order of priority. For product or eCommerce work, include aspect ratios and final use. A written shot list means nothing gets forgotten if the session gets tight.
Team, Roles & Call Sheet
Even a small shoot benefits from clear roles. Keep the crew lean — more people means more noise and slower decisions.
Prepare a Call Sheet
Send a simple call sheet to everyone at least the day before — names, contacts, studio address, call times, wardrobe notes, and any confidentiality or social media restrictions. A shared Google Doc works fine.
Model Release Forms
If models are involved, have release forms ready to sign on arrival. Print them — don’t rely on signing digitally on the day.
Outfits, Products & Props
Fashion & Portrait Shoots
Bring more outfits than you think you’ll need. A lint roller, safety pins, and double-sided tape are worth packing. A garment steamer is already in the studio. Think about which backdrops complement your outfits — if you’re unsure, message in advance.
Product & eCommerce Shoots
Products should arrive clean, polished, and ready to shoot. Bring alternatives or colourways where you have them. Polishing cloths and putty for propping items save time on the day.
Props
Arch Photo Studio has a range of props available — furniture, plants, surfaces, and styling items. See the full props list → before your shoot to see what’s here. If you’re bringing your own, make sure everything fits in your car.
Backdrops & Equipment
Everything is included in your hire — no need to source additional kit. The full list is on the Studio Equipment page →
Paper Backdrops
Over 20 Colorama paper backdrops in stock — black and white always available, plus a wide range of colours from neutrals through to strong tones. Backdrop usage is included un
Travel & Parking
The studio is under a railway arch in Camberwell SE5. Full directions, parking details, and access notes are on the Studio Info page → Allow extra ti
What To Expect
Setup Time
Allow 30–60 minutes for setup — papers, lights, and any set-building always takes longer than expected. Hair and makeup can run in parallel to make efficient use of your time.
During The Shoot
Robbie stays on site throughout. On Standard tier, call from reception when you need changes. On Premium he’s essentially part of the team — an extra pair of eyes throughout. The atmosphere is kept relaxed — the best work happens when pe
Any Questions Before You Book?
If something’s not covered here, get in touch before you book — it’s much easier to sort details in advance. Most questions are answered in the Studio FAQs →
