On the day of the session, the photographer handles light, composition and gear. But there are things only you can do before they arrive — and they make more of a difference than it seems.
1. Tidy and clean more than usual
The camera exaggerates clutter. A cable in the wrong place, a box in the background, a crumpled napkin — things you don’t notice day-to-day become the centre of attention in a photo.
The week before the session: clean in more detail than usual, remove anything you don’t want to appear (bins, storage materials, temporary signs) and clear surfaces.
2. Think about what story you want to tell
Before the session, define what you’ll use the photos for: Google Business? Website? Instagram? Restaurant menu? Each use has different proportions and approaches. The more detail you give the photographer, the more useful the images will be.
Make a list of the 5–10 must-have photos for you. That way nothing gets forgotten on the day.
3. Care for the presentation of your product or service
If you have a restaurant, choose the dishes that best represent your cuisine — not the easiest to prepare, but the ones you want the client to order. If you have a property, make sure the beds are perfectly made, the towels folded and the kitchens free of clutter.
The small presentation details are the client’s job, not the photographer’s.
4. Brief your team
If employees will appear in the photos, let them know in advance so they show up dressed appropriately. A surprised face or dirty work clothes can ruin a photo that would otherwise be perfect.
If you’d rather no-one appears, schedule the session outside opening hours.
5. Check the natural light
Natural light is the best ally of a good photo. If your premises has large windows, the session should coincide with the hours when most light comes in — usually in the morning.
Discuss this with the photographer when planning the session. An hour’s difference can completely change the result.
6. Have the brand elements ready
Logo in high quality, corporate colours, packaging, uniforms — if you want the session to reinforce your brand identity, have them ready. You don’t want to improvise on the day.
A well-prepared session is a shorter session with better results. If you have questions about how to organise yours, write to us beforehand — we’ll help you plan it.
