It’s styled shoot and conference season and I just got back from The Hybrid Co conference in San Diego. It was really a wonderful time. I attended two shoots and they were both super different and really great learning experiences! While I’m no newbie to styled shoots I have a few pointers for my fellow photographers out there who are attending one in the future, whether it be your first or 100th! Here are just a few tips for how to rock a styled shoot like a pro!

Tip 1 // Know the shoot. Moodboards and aesthetics are a great way to see what you can expect from a shoot but ask questions upfront too! Are the colors within your brand of work? Will there be a couple or just a bride? Will there be families to photograph? Perhaps you’re strictly a wedding photographer. Ask the organizer ahead of time so you can make sure it’s a great fit.

Tip 2 // Bring your own props and try new things! If you always shoot the same film stock, bring a new one. Bring a prism to shoot through or any pretty details you’ve been waiting to shoot in the perfect setting. This is the time to get creative and try something new!

Tip 3 // Be bossy but kind. This is one of those things that we all need a reminder of. If you are quiet and like to hang in the back, bring a zoom lens but also get in there and get your time with the couple or details or whatever you are photographing. If you are bossy and know what you want, get what you need and step aside to let someone else get their turn, bonus points if you let them borrow a lens or support them too. We all want to enjoy these shoots and it’s possible with the right outlook.

I’d love to hear your tips for enjoying and winning styled shoots, leave them below if you’ve got them!