Photographers loved styled shoots, but why? What’s the point of spending time and resources that are already scarce to shoot something you’re not getting paid for? Well, actually there are LOTS of reasons. I’m here to share my personal favorite reasons to plan a styled shoot.
1. Network
Guess what? There are AMAZING vendors in your town! When I plan a styled shoot as a wedding photographer, I am able to connect with all the best of the best wedding vendors in town. Not only am I making great friendships and connections, but I am creating a resource for my brides. Having worked with so many incredible wedding professionals, I am able to make recommendations of all kinds for my brides that best fit their personalities or wedding theme. This includes florists, hair and make up artists, cake makers, caterers, designers, dress shops, videographers, graphic designers and more.
Styled shoots are not just for wedding photographers. A children’s photographer can network with the local children boutiques. A senior photographer can connect with hair and make up artists, boutiques, fashion bloggers. The possibilities are endless! Networking is KEY for a successful business, professional referrals and a resource for your clients.
2. Practice….
3. & trying new techniques
Styled shoots are for new techniques, learning how to pose, trying new equipment and practicing photography in all sorts of ways. Every time I get a new lens, I plan a styled shoot. New camera body = styled shoot. New location = styled shoot. Practice with friends = styled shoot.
Styled shoots do not have to be a ton of money or a ton of participating vendors. It can just be you, a model and a location that fits your brand. The point is: you are in full control. This is your shoot…not your clients. There’s no pressure of performing the way someone else expects. The only person you have to please is yourself.
4. Attract your ideal client
Since a styled shoot is designed by you for you, it’s your brand. By shooting something styled to your target market, you are attracting your ideal client. Before I was shooting high end weddings, I was planning high end styled shoots.When I want detail oriented weddings, I make sure I am posting detail focused styled shoots. Brides need to know you can shoot what they want!
5. Build portfolio
It’s a great way to build a portfolio! Some people start shooting their friends and family for free to build their portfolio then move to charging them. With styled shoots you are shooting for free, but your clientele doesn’t have to know that. You can build a beautiful portfolio, get the needed practice and still stay professional.
6. Get out of creative rut
Every single time I feel in a creative rut or uninspired by the work I’m doing, I shoot for myself. It allows me to remember why I love photography and what I can do with it. It’s amazing what a 30 minute break from the norm can do for your business.
View all of our most recent styled shoots here!
Kylee started Kylee Ann Photography 9 years ago, and has since grown from a one woman amateur show to a full associate team. We shoot 50-75 weddings a year, and thrive on kindness and service. After a year of teaching Intro to Photography at the local technical college, she discovered that helping other entrepreneurs create thriving businesses is what fires her up! She hosts semi-annual Kylee Ann Sleepovers all over the US, speak at conferences and teach online courses about running a small business and marketing.
February 12, 2016
Kylee Maughan
