A professional photoshoot can alter how people view your brand — and great results start long before the camera is turned on. Taking time to prep your product helps ensure that every photograph is clean, consistent, and ready for the marketing process. Whether it’s a packshot, apparel shoot, or close up of jewelry, it’s always the small details that make a big impact. At D’Clode Studio, we often advise clients to follow an easy pre-shoot checklist.

First, it’s important to wipe down each item to ensure that there is no dust, fingerprints, or wrinkles. With apparel, steaming or ironing is a must and with jewelry, cleaning and closely inspecting under good lighting adds to your peace of mind in the editing process when retouching later if needed.

One of the last things that I recommend to clients is secure products in packaging and label each package, as we’ll keep track of the order once we are in the studio and this helps to ensure process efficiency when managing product workflow – especially during large e-commerce shoots.

Lighting shows everything, including the small imperfections. This is why we recommend to brands to send us products in the best condition. We also talk about their preferences for the brand, including colors, tones, and mood, and use of product (website catalog or ad campaign). These things inform us to help manage the shoot as it relates to their marketing goals and brand identity.

Preparation saves time, cuts down on editing costs, and assures visual consistency across the product line. When your products arrive ready to shoot, then your images simply will go from camera to campaign faster while providing the high-end look the audience expects.

Good preparation equals good photography.