So, you wanna put together a styled shoot to build your portfolio. This can be a really intimidating task, but I am here to put your mind at ease!

What is a Styled Shoot?

A styled shoot is a fun, creative photo session where every detail is carefully planned and curated to bring a specific theme, concept, or vision to life. These shoots can be anything from fashion and editorial to weddings, lifestyle, or even product photography, and they bring together a team of talented professionals—photographers, stylists, designers, makeup artists, florists, and other creatives.

The idea is to create a visually stunning scene that tells a compelling story, highlights unique ideas, and showcases new trends or concepts. Everything, from the setting and props to the outfits and color schemes, is meticulously chosen to match the theme and set the right mood.

Styled shoots are often used as a way to push creative boundaries, experiment with new styles, and create high-quality, eye-catching content for portfolios, magazines, blogs, or social media. They give the team a chance to collaborate without the pressure of a real-life event, which means there’s more freedom to get imaginative and explore bold concepts.

Whether it’s a whimsical fashion shoot or a chic wedding-inspired set-up, styled shoots allow everyone involved to showcase their skills and produce something truly unique, inspiring, and beautiful. Not only this, but it’s a fabulous chance to network with other vendors in your area.

Here I’ll showcase one of my favourite wedding styled shoots that I was a part of in March 2024. I worked with two other photographers, as well as a florist, hair and makeup stylist, stationary maker, venue, nail tech, photo booth, and a bunch of other amazing vendors on this shoot. You’ll be able to check out all the vendors’ Instagram handles at the bottom of the post!

Where to Start When Planning a Styled Photoshoot

First things first, you need to decide what you want your photos to look like. To start putting together a styled photoshoot, begin by defining the concept or theme you want to achieve. This could be based on a specific mood, colour palette, or fashion style, and will help guide your decisions throughout the planning process. Consider the emotions you want to evoke in your viewers, whether it’s warmth, nostalgia, or excitement.

Research different styles that resonate with you, and gather inspiring images that showcase similar aesthetics. Additionally, think about the location and how it complements your chosen theme; a rustic barn, a sleek urban setting, or even a natural landscape can all bring a different feel to your photographs.

Finally, assemble a team of creatives, such as stylists, makeup artists, and models, who understand your vision and can help bring it to life, ensuring cohesiveness in every element of the shoot. I personally like to put together a mood board and example photos from other photographers so that I can share that with the other vendors I’ll be working with.

Decide what you want your photos to look like – define the concept or theme
Build a mood board and gather examples and research styles that resonate with you
Consider the emotions you want to evoke
Think about the location and how it compliments your vision
Assemble your team of vendors

Time to Assemble Your Team!

It’s networking time, baby. And the best place to start networking? Social media. Start by joining industry-specific groups on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest, where photographers, florists, planners, and other vendors frequently share their work. These platforms not only allow you to showcase your creativity but also provide an opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion.

I often find fellow vendors through local Facebook groups. For example, I’ll head to a group such as “Okanagan Wedding Vendors and Brides”, which is an excellent resource for discovering talented individuals in the industry. I engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing my appreciation for their work, fostering relationships that may lead to future collaborations. Engaging authentically is key, as it demonstrates genuine interest and builds rapport.

Next, I make my own post about the vision I have for my styled shoot, clearly outlining the concept and what I am looking for in a team. Interested vendors will comment with their enthusiasm and ideas, creating a buzz around the project. This is the perfect time to deepen the conversation; I then reach out to them through private messages to set a date for the photoshoot, ensuring everyone is aligned and excited about the collaboration ahead.

Start networking on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest.
Join industry-specific groups where photographers, florists, planners, and other vendors share their work.
Post about the vision for your styled shoot, outlining the concept and what you’re looking for in a team.
Reach out via private messages to finalize details and set a date for the photoshoot.

How to Secure a Venue for your Styled Shoot

Securing a venue for a styled photoshoot involves several key steps to ensure everything runs smoothly. Start by determining the type of location that aligns with your vision, whether it’s a studio, an outdoor space, or a unique indoor venue. Research potential venues online, looking at photos, reviews, and availability. Once you have a shortlist, reach out to the venues to inquire about their rental fees, booking process, and any restrictions, such as noise or lighting limitations.

It’s essential to discuss insurance requirements, especially if you’re using props or have a large crew. If the venue requires a contract, carefully review the terms and conditions, and make sure you clarify any cancellation policies. Lastly, coordinate with the venue regarding access times, parking arrangements, and other logistics to ensure a seamless experience on the day of the shoot.

Even better than renting a venue – reach out to new venues who are trying to build their clientele and need photographs for their own social media and website. Often, these up-and-coming establishments are eager to showcase their space, and they recognize the immense value that high-quality photographs can bring to their marketing efforts. More often than not, these venues will let you use their facility free of charge in exchange for their use of your photographs for their marketing.

This mutually beneficial arrangement not only provides you with a stunning backdrop for your projects but also allows the venue to gain exposure through your network and social media reach. By establishing a collaborative relationship with these venues, you can help them grow while simultaneously enriching your portfolio, creating a win-win situation that can lead to future opportunities and referrals in the industry.

Determine the type of venue: Choose a location that matches your vision (studio, outdoor, indoor).
Research venues: Check photos, reviews, and availability online.
Contact venues: Inquire about rental fees, booking process, and restrictions (e.g., noise, lighting).
Alternative option: Contact new venues wanting to build their clientele and offer photos for their marketing.
Mutual benefit: Venues may let you use their space for free in exchange for photos for their website and social media.
Win-win collaboration: Helps build your portfolio while giving the venue exposure and potentially leading to future opportunities.

A bride and groom pose for an editorial style black and white photo for a styled shoot in Kelowna, BC

Where to find Models for your Styled Shoot

Finding real couples with wedding attire for a styled shoot can be an exciting adventure! Start by reaching out to recently married couples on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook. Many couples love to share their wedding moments and might jump at the chance to model in their wedding attire again for a fun shoot. You can also post in local wedding groups or community forums, offering a styled shoot experience in exchange for stunning photos they can cherish forever.

Don’t forget to connect with wedding planners, venues, or bridal shops—they often know couples who would be thrilled to showcase their beautiful wedding looks again! Be clear about the concept, and make sure to highlight the exciting opportunity for them to relive their big day with fresh, creative images. Offering a chance for exposure or professional photos can sweeten the deal and create a positive, memorable experience for everyone involved!

Make a Plan for the Day of the Photoshoot

Planning a timeline for a styled photoshoot is all about keeping the energy high and the creativity flowing! Start by setting an exciting call time for the team—photographers, stylists, models, and assistants—making sure there’s plenty of wiggle room for everyone to arrive, grab a coffee, and get ready to roll.

Kick things off with a prep session where the magic begins: setting up the location, styling the space, and getting those props just right. Then, dive into hair and makeup, turning everyone into their most glamorous selves, and maybe squeeze in a few wardrobe changes if the theme calls for it! Break the shoot into fun, dynamic segments, giving each look or scene its own moment in the spotlight, with some quick touch-ups in between.

Don’t forget to build in time for snack breaks and a chance for the team to recharge. Finally, wrap it up with some celebration time—review the shots, clean up, and bask in the glow of a successful shoot! A well-timed day keeps the vibes light and the creativity flowing.

You are Ready for your Shoot!

Once all the pieces are in place, it’s time for your styled photoshoot! By now, your vendors are aligned and ready, your models know exactly what to wear, your venue perfectly reflects your vision, and you’re all set to bring your concept to life!

To Summarize:

Put together a mood board and other inspo that reflect your theme and vision
Assemble a team of kick-ass vendors to collaborate with by networking on social media or reaching out to them directly
Secure a venue for your photoshoot by reaching out to specific facilities you’d like to work in or by networking on social media
Find your models by reaching out to real people you’ve worked with in the past or recently married couples who may be happy to get more photos of them in their wedding attire
Build a timeline and plan the day out