We recently heard about a fashion brand’s campaign shoot that didn’t go to plan. It was a team they knew well. Same faces, same process, same setup. But the day was scattered.
There was no clear run sheet. The models were waiting around with no idea when they were needed. The photographer didn’t know what to capture. Stylists were guessing on looks. There wasn’t a lead or a strategy, and everything just felt off.
The shoot went overtime. Everyone left feeling unsure if they got what they needed. The client ended up spending thousands more than expected. All of it could have been avoided with clearer planning and communication.
At MaloneCo—Studio, we have experienced every version of a shoot. From quick product sessions to multi-day campaigns. What separates the good from the great is always the same.
Not rigid rules, but clear flow. Calm, confident leadership. Every person on set knowing exactly what they are there to do.
This is the structure we come back to every time. Whether you are running your own shoot or working with a team, this process helps things stay focused and flow smoothly.
The Three-Phase Process for a Calm and Productive Shoot
1. Pre-production (Start 3 to 4 weeks in advance)
Most of the work happens here. The more clarity you bring to this phase, the smoother your shoot will run.
- Team and Talent
- Finalise your model or models
- Lock in hair, makeup and styling
- Send reference images and inspiration for looks and energy
- Choose talent that reflects your brand now
Creative Direction and Strategy
- Define what the shoot is for
- Where will these images be used? Website, social media, campaign, press?
- How many products are being photographed?
- How many images per product do you need?
Styling and Visual Prep
- Build a detailed shot list with angles, framing, variations and styling notes
- Prepare a call sheet and a full run sheet with timings and roles
- Put together a styling list with props, textures and materials
- Make sure products are clean, steamed and sticker free
- Logistics and Timing
- Book your studio, crew and photographer early
- Confirm bump-in time, access, lighting preferences and any gear required
- Discuss editing style, turnaround time and delivery expectations
- Share the full creative direction and schedule with everyone involved
2. Production (Shoot Day)
This is where the preparation pays off. The goal is to keep the day flowing with ease.
- Call sheet and run sheet should be accessible and understood
- Products should be styled and queued up in shot order
- Confirm model looks and styling before the first shot
- Leave time for resets, changes and touch ups
- Keep breaks scheduled and allow time for lunch
- Have one person responsible for running the flow of the day
- Tick off each setup as you go
- A calm shoot day is not a luxury. It is a result of good planning.
3. Post-production
This is where everything comes together.
- Confirm how and where files will be delivered
- Agree on file types, sizes, crops and how they are organised
- Clarify who selects the final images
- Confirm editing turnaround time before the shoot
- Keep your gallery easy to access and share with your team
Final Thought
Shoots do not need to feel frantic or rushed. When you slow down to plan with intention, you create space for better ideas and stronger visuals. You protect your energy and your budget.
We hope this guide gives you something to take away and use in your own process. Whether you are shooting with a creative team or handling it in house, a clear structure can completely shift the experience.
