Why should you book a stylist for your next photoshoot?

The more time I spend in this business, the longer it takes me to “get the shot”!

I used to be able to shoot a house in 40 minutes – now, if given the chance, I like to spend all day.

This is because it’s rare that I simply take a photograph without first considering all of the elements in the shot.

It takes a certain level of care to make a room sing with that aspirational, carefree, and lived-in look that we all love.

Even working on my own as a photographer, I find myself styling shots – putting into practice everything I have learnt from observing some of the best stylists in the business.

What is photoshoot styling?

In my work as an interior photographer, I most often work with a stylist when capturing homes for interior designers, magazines or product-based businesses.

When I work with a stylist, we most often compose each frame together. We take the time to consider all the elements within the frame and ensure it looks the way we want it to and that it highlights the client’s work or product in the best way possible.

What looks good in real life can look completely different to what looks good in camera; which is why consideration is taken with each shot.

Styling a photograph is not always adding things to a scene. It can simply be taking things away to help what is left behind shine – the best stylist knows what to add and when to begin taking things away!

Reasons to hire a stylist

Hiring a stylist for a photoshoot is the ultimate delegation. You can focus on being a client, I can focus on being the photorgapher and the stylist will be busy being a stylist - happy days!

I suggest hiring a stylist when you need help with any of the following:

creative direction
a fresh eye
prop sourcing
creating a high end look
flower arranging
styled product photography
reducing stress on photoshoot day
seeking editorial placements.

booking a stylist

If you are considering booking a stylist, this is what you should be doing:

Look for a stylist whose personal style aligns with your business and brand. When asked or I think it will help, I recommend a stylist that I feel suits the job the best.
Request their availability at the same time as your photographer to coordinate the shoot day on a date that suits everyone.
Booking a stylist and photographer who have worked together before and recommend each other for a harmonious team. I say this because not all photographers tether their camera to an iPad or laptop like I do, and this can often be a non-negotiable for stylists when working on shoots. Tethering is a vital tool to help a photographer and stylist to work together without having to squint over the back of a camera screen or tiny viewfinder.

What to ask

what does their services include?
will they bring props?
can they source flowers?
who is in charge of the moodboard?
how do they like to work to achieve the best outcome?

when I can do the styling

I love working with a dedicated stylist, but I should truly acknowledge all the times that I do not… and end up being the one arranging flowers, rummaging through cupboards for alternative props, and tidying up bookshelves. And I love this!

While I currently do not have the capacity to do large-scale property styling for shoots, I do offer dedicated styling services for lifestyle and accommodation shoots.

Predominantly, I work with what is available on site, while also working with my client prior to the shoot to plan a small prop list and can bring a collection of additional props that still feel authentic to the brand or property.

Stylist recommendations

I tend to recommend stylists that I feel align best with my clients. However, here are the stylists I have worked with before in South East Queensland that I am always recommending:

styling without a stylist

Here are some tips on how to style when you don’t have a stylist booked for your shoot, or maybe you are just taking some photos yourself:

frame up your shot prior to styling, so you don’t work too hard on things that won’t be in the photograph
tidy up and remove any non-essential and everyday items that aren’t beautiful, e.g. hide cables, put away tissue boxes and remotes
twist handles on cups, jugs and kettles so you can see them in camera
open or even close curtains, windows and doors for your desired look
loosen things up a little – toss the throw, muddle the cushions slightly
bring in a “sign of life” – a spray of flowers, a cup of tea, a dog, some shoes
move furniture to capture their best angles
no towels on beds.

Case study

The photographs I have used in this article are from shoots for my interior design client, Oliver Mark Interiors.

Hayley from Wholehearted Studio was hired as the photoshoot stylist.

Lloyd, the principal interior designer, still undertook much of the styling and creative direction planning for each shoot.

During the shoot Hayley’s role was to ensure everything looked perfect in-camera. She has experience in editorial and high end styling so her keen eye was invaluable for ensuring all the thoughtful touches Lloyd used in the shoot truly shined.