If you’re anything like me, you cringe at the thought of a photo shoot.
Solid Gen Xer here and really like to take the photos, not be in them.
BUT, we are all professionals here and we know we need professional photos to build our small businesses. And yes, authors are a small business. You are authorpreneurs!
So, once you find your favorite photographer, it’s time to sit down with him or her and plan your shoot.
1- Plan out 15-20 shot locations.
You should get 5-7 different angles and poses for each shot.
2- Plan each outfit for those locations.
Look on Instagram for ideas. Make a list. My first shoot had ten wardrobe changes. That’s way too many. Three or four is enough, especially if you layer so you don’t take up too much time. Think about colors and the backdrop for those colors.
3- Will you have props?
I had a bicycle (that had to have a little basket), an umbrella, books, coffee mugs. Make sure you know exactly what you’ll need for each shot.
3- Make sure you know the purpose for those shots
Some of mine are strictly for social media. A few others are for book jackets or the website. Still others are for the podcast.
4- Who will do your hair and makeup?
Don’t do this yourself. I had a friend recommend someone after I said I would just do it, and it was the best move I could have made.
5- What about music?
Does music help you relax? Then bring it along.
6- Do you need a friend?
Photo shoots are already a bit stressful. If you have a friend that can make it more fun, bring them along.
The bottom line with planning your photo shoot is to work with your photographer and do the work ahead of time. You don’t want to waste your time or your photog’s time. Sit down and plan out the shot list. The more organized you are, the better the day will go.