A solid, well-thought-out brief is one of the best ways to make sure your photographer or videographer captures exactly what you’re envisioning. Whether you’re doing a branding shoot, showcasing a product, capturing a family portrait, or covering an event, clear communication with your creative team helps turn your ideas into standout visuals. At Edward Wolstenholme Studio, we know that no two projects are alike. That’s why we support and encourage clients to create a brief that really reflects their unique vision, so every shot aligns with their goals.
Here are five easy steps to help you put together a brief that’ll set your shoot up for success.
1. Define the Purpose and Vision of the Shoot
First, get clear on the purpose of your project and the story you want to tell. Why are you doing this shoot? What emotions, messages, or ideas do you want to convey? Maybe it’s to capture a personal achievement or showcase your brand’s personality. Having a strong sense of purpose gives your creative team the foundation they need to bring your vision to life.
For example:
Corporate Branding Shoot: Highlight the personality and values of your brand, with a vibe that’s professional but still warm and approachable.
Family Event: Capture candid, joyful moments that reflect the natural bonds and personalities of each family member.
Tip: Be as specific as possible. If you’re seeking a “candid, relaxed feel” or want to “capture the product range in a bold editorial setting,” share that with us! The more we understand your vision, the better we can make it happen.
2. Specify Your Desired Style and Aesthetic
Photos and videos are as much about mood as they are about content. Think about the overall vibe you want for your images or footage. Do you picture bright and airy shots with a natural feel? Or something bolder with more dramatic lighting?
When it comes to styling, consider details like:
Lighting: Natural light for a softer, more authentic feel, or a studio setting for a polished, editorial look.
Colours: Are there any specific colours or tones that should be prominent in the visuals.
Feeling: Should the video edit be dynamic and impactful? Or would you prefer it uplifting and fun?
Tip: Share photos, music, or scenes from a film or advert you've seen. These references can be especially helpful for communicating abstract ideas or nuanced styles. We love having a visual reference—pictures can say a lot that words sometimes can’t.
3. Identify Key Moments, People, or Elements to Capture
If there are specific elements, people, or moments you want to highlight, make sure to spell them out in the brief. This is especially important for events but can also be relevant for product shoots, branding sessions, and portraits. Make a list of “must-have” shots that you don’t want us to miss.
For example:
Corporate Event: Keynote speakers, networking moments, candid interactions, and details like branded decor or particular product displays.
Product Shoot: Close-ups of the product’s unique features, lifestyle shots showing the product in action, or specific angles that emphasise branding.
Business Portraits: Group shots, individual portraits, or candid interactions.
Actor Headshots: Girl-next-door vibe, bold senior executive, hair up and hair down.
Tip: Prioritise what matters most. By focusing on a few key details, you give us the freedom to capture what’s essential while leaving room for spontaneous, organic moments.
4. Set Clear Expectations for Deliverables
Outline what you expect in terms of deliverables, like the number of shots, preferred file formats, and any post-production needs (e.g., color grading or retouching). This avoids misunderstandings and ensures you receive the final product in the form you need.
Consider details such as:
Quantity: Do you need two high-quality images per person, or a complete gallery from which to choose? Do you need one main video for an exhibition as well as 5 shorter videos for your Instagram stories?
Types of Shots: Do you need your videos and photos in portrait orientation? Or landscape? Or Square?
Turnaround Time: If there’s a deadline, share it so we can plan accordingly.
Tip: Be realistic about deliverable expectations in relation to the project’s scope. At EWS, we’re happy to discuss what’s achievable within your needs and budget.
5. Share Context About the Audience and Where It’ll Be Used
Finally, let your photographer or videographer know who the target audience is and where the visuals will appear. This helps us tailor our approach to make each shot resonate with the right people.
For instance:
Social Media Content: Short, eye-catching clips and on-brand images that pop on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Family Holiday Film for the Memories: One ten minute film that's intimate, timeless and can be treasured forever.
Promotional Material for a Website: High-resolution, professionally lit photos with a consistent aesthetic that aligns with your brand.
Tip: If you’re planning to use visuals across different platforms (e.g., social, print, cinema, tv, and online), mention that in the brief. At EWS, we can adapt our style to create versatile content that works well on multiple platforms.
Why a Clear Brief Matters
A clear, thorough brief is invaluable for getting the results you want. It empowers your creative team to approach the project with a deeper understanding of your vision and expectations, making it easier to make creative decisions that really align with your style and objectives. At EWS, we see every shoot as a collaboration. With the right brief, we can approach your project as a trusted partner, capturing images and videos that not only meet but exceed your expectations.
Creating a brief doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s just about gathering your thoughts, defining your vision, and sharing it in a way that feels authentic to you. With a clear brief and open communication, we can work together to create visuals that truly resonate and tell your story with impact and clarity.
Ready to Get Started?
At Edward Wolstenholme Studio, we’re here to make the process easy, enjoyable, and tailored to your needs. If you’re gearing up for an upcoming shoot, we’re happy to guide you through crafting a brief that aligns with your goals. Get in touch today for a free consultation, and let’s start setting the stage for a successful shoot that brings your vision to life.
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