The Complete Guide to E-Commerce Fashion Photoshoots: Building the Shot List
Are you ready to take your e-commerce photoshoot to the next level in 2025? Created by Amanda Rango of ARD Fashion Consulting—a designer and product developer with over two decades of experience helping fashion founders launch and scale their businesses—this guide is your go-to resource. Whether you’re gearing up to launch your first collection or seeking ways to streamline your photoshoot process, this comprehensive guide is packed with tools, tips, and strategies to help you elevate your brand and execute a flawless shoot.
As we step into 2025, I’m thrilled to bring you The Complete Guide to E-Commerce Fashion Photoshoots: Building the Shot List. This guide is designed to help you master every aspect of your photoshoot, from avoiding common pitfalls to prioritizing tasks and creating a seamless timeline.
You’ll discover how to build an effective shot list, gain insights into the key elements of planning and preparation, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at how ARD Fashion Consulting executes successful photoshoots. Your e-commerce makes all the difference in elevating your brand by making your visuals stand out!
When to Start Planning Your E-Commerce Photoshoot
Planning an e-commerce photoshoot can feel overwhelming, but starting early is the key to ensuring your products shine online. Let’s explore the common pitfalls to avoid and the steps you must take to prepare for a successful shoot.
The Top 3 Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Starting Too Late
Planning your photoshoot too late can create unnecessary stress and compromise the quality of your images. A great photoshoot requires time and effort, from selecting the right studio and photographer to creating a curated shot list.
I recommend starting weeks, if not months, in advance to allow ample time for researching inspiration and preparing a shot deck. Proactive planning will give you the creative space needed to get it right.
2. Failing to Time Sample Arrivals Perfectly
One critical factor in your timeline is the arrival of your PP (pre-production) or TOP (top of production) samples. These samples must arrive in time for the shoot and should accurately reflect your final designs.
Additionally, you’ll need time to prepare the products by removing packaging, steaming or ironing, and ensuring they are photo-ready. This step also provides an opportunity to identify and address any errors or inconsistencies before the big day.
3. Overlooking Imagery Turnaround Deadlines
It is essential to discuss and agree on turnaround time with your photographer. Depending on their workload and the season, receiving the final, edited images may take anywhere from one week to a month (or longer). Make sure this timeline aligns with your e-commerce launch schedule, leaving enough time for uploading, organizing, and building out your product pages.
Planning your e-commerce photoshoot involves more than just showing up with your products. With careful preparation and a thoughtful timeline, you’ll set your brand up for success. Let’s dive into how to kickstart this process and make your photoshoot a seamless experience!
Where to start? Focus in order of priority.
When preparing for a photoshoot, it's essential to tackle each step methodically to ensure a seamless execution. Prioritizing your efforts will help streamline the process and set you up for success. Let’s break it down into key focus areas.
Confirm Samples
As mentioned earlier, prioritize coordinating with your manufacturer or sourcing partner to ensure all product samples arrive on time and in the correct quantities. Order enough samples in the sizes that match your anticipated model requirements, and include extras to accommodate back-to-back shots or unexpected issues. Clear communication about sample ETAs is crucial—don’t book your studio or photographer until you’ve confirmed their arrival.
2. Studio
The next step is finding a studio that aligns with your brand’s aesthetic and meets your technical needs. Look for spaces with versatile props, backgrounds, and lighting options to accommodate your creative vision.
Research local studios or on-location sets and compile a list of potential options. Be sure to compare rates and consider how well the space fits your overall concept before making a decision.
3. Photographer
Choosing the right photographer is crucial—not just for their talent but also for their ability to execute your vision. While there are many skilled photographers, each specializes in different styles and niches. Research photographers whose portfolios resonate with your brand aesthetic and reach out to discuss their experience and approach. A strong working relationship is just as important as technical expertise.
At ARD Fashion Consulting, we’ve collaborated with exceptional photographers like Meghan McGuire who worked her magic with our kids brands, Hallegrace and The Decided Collection, and Jake Olsen who captured stunning visuals for Maneline.
4. Models
The models you select should reflect your brand identity and resonate with your target audience. Matching the right face to your product not only conveys the intended message but also strengthens your brand image. Booking models early allows you to incorporate them into your shot list and plan product placements. Don’t forget to gather their sizing information to ensure the clothing fits perfectly!.
5. Props
Props are an often overlooked yet critical aspect of planning. Create a detailed “prop list” as part of your shot list to ensure nothing is forgotten. Provide yourself with ample time to purchase and source your desired props.
This also allows you to coordinate with your crew—stylist, photographer, or client—on who will bring each item. Having the right props ready can elevate your photoshoot and help tell a cohesive brand story.
6. Fashion Stylist
A stylist plays an integral role in keeping the day of the shoot organized and on-brand. They assist the Creative Director by prepping garments, ensuring each look fits the models perfectly, and providing input on accessories or other styling details.
They also maintain the timeline, support garment presentation, and help execute the creative vision for every shot. A great stylist ensures that no detail is overlooked. I’ve never done a photoshoot without my trusty right hand stylists, and honestly, I don’t think I ever could!
7. Hair and Makeup Stylist
You’ll always want to plan for an on-set hair and makeup stylist if you’re working with models that need to be managed in between shots. With kids, most brands tend to prefer clean and natural looks, but for any other age range you’ll want to have at least one hair and makeup stylist on set to get your models ready BEFORE the shoot begins. This can be done while you’re working with the photographer to go over the shot list and set up any of the sets for the day.
By focusing on these priorities, you’ll have a strong foundation for a successful photoshoot. Each of these elements contributes to the polished and professional imagery your brand deserves. Here’s a snapshot of what a timeline looks like: the 8 weeks leading up to go time!
Week 1 = Gather Inspiration: Research ideas and set your vision.
Week 1 = Confirm Samples: Ensure samples arrive on time.
Week 2 = Start Shot List: Draft a detailed list of shots.
Week 3 = Book Studio: Secure your location.
Week 3 = Hire Photographer: Confirm booking and timelines.
Week 4 = Secure Models: Book models and note sizes.
Week 4 = Book Stylists: Arrange for fashion and makeup experts.
Week 5 = List Props: Write down all needed props.
Week 5 = Refine Shot List: Finalize details and updates.
Week 6 = Gather Props: Collect items on your list.
Week 7 = Plan Crew Snacks: Organize food and drinks for everyone.
Week 8 = Prepare Samples: Steam and process products.
Week 8 = Print Shot List: Have copies ready for the team.
Week 8 = Photoshoot: It’s go time!
Let’s now explore how to build a shot list and finalize the creative direction for your photoshoot.
How to Create a Shot List
Planning and organization are key to a successful photoshoot, and creating a shot list is one of the most important steps. Let’s break down what a shot list is, why it’s essential, and how to find inspiration to bring your e-commerce fashion photoshoot to life.
What is a Shot List?
A shot list is a detailed guide that outlines every photo the photographer needs to capture. It includes essential details such as the product featured in the shot, the model wearing the product, the background or set, and any props. You can even include lighting inspiration for added clarity. Typically, a shot list is arranged in sequential order, ensuring a smooth workflow during the shoot.
Why Do You Need a Shot List?
A shot list ensures that everyone involved in the shoot is aligned with the creative vision. It acts as a roadmap for the photographer, designers, stylists, and models, providing clear direction on how to bring the concept to life. With a well-crafted shot list, you’ll minimize miscommunication and ensure no key shot is forgotten.
What Is Included in a Shot List?
Here’s a breakdown of the key elements you’ll want to include:
Photoshoot Location and Details: Include the date, time, address, and logistical details like parking or entry instructions.
Models: Add headshots, names, and sizing information to ensure proper preparation.
Sets and Backgrounds: Provide inspiration images for each set to help visualize the desired look.
Prop List: Detail all required props and assign responsibility for bringing them to the shoot.
Full Shot List: Organize each shot with assigned models, sets, props, and inspiration images for quick reference on the day of the shoot. (I tend to delineate my shot lists by dividing out the “on body” e-commerce product shots, “flat styling” e-commerce shots, and the “on body lifestyle” photography, mostly utilized for landing pages, social media and advertising.
Where to Find Shot List Inspiration for Your E-commerce Fashion Photoshoot
Finding the right inspiration can elevate your shoot. Here are some go-to sources:
Pinterest: Use boards to curate images that reflect the mood and creative direction you’re aiming for.
Aspirational E-commerce Brands: Explore brands that resonate with your aesthetic for inspiration on model poses, action shots, and styling.
Fashion Magazines: Flip through magazines for ideas on posing, lighting, color palettes, and backdrops.
Social Media: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram offer endless visuals, from creative poses to innovative lighting setups.
Behind-the-Scenes Videos: Watching BTS content can provide insight into the photoshoot process and spark creative ideas.
For example, watch this behind-the-scenes video from our Brand Photoshoot with Maneline Apparel to see how we transformed our shot list into stunning visuals.
Bringing the Vision to Life
To illustrate how a shot list can guide a successful photoshoot, here’s a comparison of a shot list page we created and the final shot it produced. With thoughtful planning, your e-commerce photoshoot can showcase your brand in its best light!
The vision behind the image
The final image!
A successful e-commerce photoshoot is about more than just great visuals—it’s about teamwork, preparation, and adaptability. By taking a thoughtful approach and following these behind-the-scenes insights, your photoshoot will not only showcase your products but also reflect the essence of your brand.
Behind the Scenes of a Fashion Photoshoot
With your shot list in hand, it’s time to see how all the preparation unfolds. Here’s a look behind the scenes of some of ARD Fashion Consulting’s favorite photoshoots in 2024 and how everything comes together.
Pre-Shoot Setup:
Like we mentioned before, there’s a lot more to prepping for a shoot than meets the eye. Watch this exclusive clip to see the days we spent prepping and packing for our photoshoot with The Decided Collection.
Team in Action:
Our client, Hallgrace, was such a fun photoshoot to be a part of! With 9 children models, we had our work cut out for us. Music and snacks were essential to keep the energy high!
The time we put into planning this photoshoot paid off. My stylist and photographer’s assistant kept models changing in the background to accommodate the different outfits needed for each shot. Our photographer was so flexible and kept our models happy and entertained!
Amanda and an assistant organize a set while the photographer and stylist continue to shoot models on a different set to get the day moving smoothly.
Amanda uses her detailed shot list to plan what image is coming next.
Amanda works on set to ensure the presentation of each garment looks as intended.
Shot Comparisons:
See another example from our photoshoot with Maneline of how thoughtful preparation leads to flawless execution.
The inspiration we used for the image.
The final result!
As you can see, there’s far more that goes on behind the scenes of an e-commerce fashion photoshoot than you may realize. In the 5+ photoshoots we directed in 2024, we learned more and more with each one!
Resources for Fashion Apparel Design
This blog post provides a complete guide for e-commerce fashion photoshoots in 2025. Whether you're just starting or looking to elevate your brand image, these tips will help feel confident and prepared as you step into your next photoshoot.
If you’d like assistance designing, producing, and marketing your fashion apparel collection, ARD Fashion Consulting is a full-service design and production firm that helps clients launch their brands from concept to creation. We work in all of the areas of men’s, women’s and children’s apparel with decades of industry experience at the corporate level.
Check out our website at ard-consulting.com to schedule a discovery call or read more informative blog posts like this one!