5 Practical Points to Keep in Mind When Planning a Studio Portrait Photo Shoot

Shooting portrait photographs in a studio seems simple enough.  However, when you actually get down to it, it can be a nightmare if you are not prepared.  Here are some tips that could help you when planning a studio portrait photograph.

Plan Your Shoot Keeping Studio Size in Mind

Shooting in a studio means you have limited space.  Plan your shoot taking into account how many subjects will be there, how much equipment will you be using, and where would you place your equipment and props.  This way you will not end up with a situation where you are shooting a large family portrait in a tiny studio or where you realize the height of the room is too low for the lighting you had in mind.
    

Make Sure You Have All The Right Equipment

In studio photography, you need to be meticulous when choosing the equipment.  Make sure you plan your shoot in detail.  Decide the camera, how many and what kind of lights you will use, the flash you need, will you use reflectors, extra lenses, umbrellas, tripod, and so on.  List out exactly what you need and make sure it is all packed before the shoot.
    

Brief Your Subjects Well in Advance

Interact with your subject before the shoot.  This will give you a chance to get to know them a bit and will also give you an opportunity to brief them about what you have in mind for the shoot, what they need to get, how long they need to be at the studio, etc.  This will ensure that they have brought that extra change of outfit you wanted and that they have kept themselves free for the period of the shoot.
    

Try to Keep Some Extra Space for Your Subjects

Studio portrait photography can be a time consuming affair.  If your subject just has to sit in a corner while you shift your equipment around, they are going to get bored and tired and this will reflect in your photographs.  Try to arrange a small but comfortable space where they can relax between shots.
    

Get The Right Props

Props make a huge difference in studio portrait photographs.  They set the theme for the portrait.  Choose your prop according to the theme you have in mind, the space available, as well as the appropriateness to the subjects you are shooting.  For children, toys make for great props.  For older subjects, simple but elegant chairs would look good.  While shooting, remember to keep the focus on the subject and let the prop just be a value addition to the portrait.