How to Create a Brand Photography Shot List

A brand photography shot list is a written document that specifies every image type you need from a session — organised by location, outfit, and context. Without one, a session ends with beautiful images and a gap where your homepage hero was supposed to go.

Why a shot list is essential

Brand photography sessions move quickly. An hour passes faster than expected, particularly during location transitions and outfit changes. Without a shot list, the most important images — the ones for specific pages or campaigns — are left to chance and memory. A shot list is agreed with your photographer in advance, so the session is structured around deliverables rather than improvisation.

Categories to include in your shot list

How to use the shot list on the day

Share the list with your photographer at least a week before the session. On the day, use it as a checklist — not a rigid script, but a safety net that means nothing critical is forgotten. Your photographer will naturally capture more than what's listed; the list ensures the essentials are covered before the more exploratory shooting begins.