FAQ: Prep + Shot List
How to prepare a project for photography—styling, decluttering, and the shot list process that captures design intent, proportion, and detail at a premium level.
Prep + Shot List (Architecture + Interiors)
The strongest architectural sets are intentional. Prep is about removing distractions, aligning styling with the design story, and building a shot list that documents the project while still feeling editorial and premium.
1) Do we need a shot list?
It helps a lot. If you already know your must-haves (hero exterior, key spaces, signature details), we’ll start there. If not, I’ll propose a practical list based on the project and how you plan to use the images (portfolio, marketing, awards, editorial).
2) What should be prioritized for an architecture + interiors set?
Prioritize spaces that define the project: primary exterior angles, entry sequence, kitchen/living, primary suite, and the details that make it unique. Then we build supporting angles for flow, proportion, and material continuity.
3) How far in advance should prep start?
Ideally 3–7 days out so you can address the small things that show up on camera (paint touch-ups, landscaping, bulbs, hardware alignment). The day before should be a final reset: surfaces wiped, glass cleaned, floors vacuumed/mopped, and styling locked.
4) What should be removed from spaces before we shoot?
Anything that reads temporary or personal: cables, chargers, tissue boxes, random paperwork, kids/pet items, excessive countertop appliances, overflowing trash, and clutter on nightstands. Simpler styling photographs stronger and keeps attention on the design.
5) Do you recommend a stylist?
For high-end projects or publication goals, a stylist can be a great investment. That said, many projects don’t need a full styling team— they need thoughtful edits and intentional placement. I’ll guide what to simplify and what to emphasize on shoot day.
6) What’s the best time of day to photograph interiors?
We schedule around natural light and window direction. Soft morning or late afternoon light is often best, but it depends on the project. If exteriors are included, we’ll plan those around sun angle and curb appeal, with twilight as an option for dramatic architecture.
7) How should lighting in the home be set?
In most cases: all practical lights that are part of the design should be functioning and consistent. Matching bulbs (color temperature) helps. We’ll decide per scene whether lights should be on or off based on the mood and color balance.
8) What about windows—do you capture the view?
If the view matters, we plan for it. Balancing interior exposure with exterior view is a big part of premium architectural work. We’ll decide which windows need to read clearly and which can stay soft to maintain the interior feel.
9) Should the design team be on-site?
One decision-maker is ideal—someone who can approve styling and align each frame with the design intent. Too many voices slows the day; one clear point of contact keeps it efficient and consistent.
10) How do you keep the day moving room to room?
We start with the highest-priority spaces while light is best, then work through supporting spaces and details. A simple “reset kit” (microfiber cloths, lint roller, glass cleaner, trash bags) makes quick fixes easy and keeps quality high.
11) What if something isn’t camera-ready on shoot day?
We’ll make smart adjustments and keep moving. If a key space isn’t ready, we pivot to another area and come back. The goal is a finished set that represents the work at a premium level—without forcing shots that don’t.
Explore more: Architecture + Interiors • Services • Work • Contact
Want a shot list that tells the design story?
Send your project priorities and intended usage. I’ll help you build a clean shot list and a simple prep plan so the day runs efficiently and the final set feels cohesive, editorial, and premium.