Hey, Let’s Talk Shot Lists
Hi, it’s me again — your product photographer based in China.
A shot list is exactly what it sounds like: a plan of every image you need before the shoot starts. It sounds simple, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for saving time and money.
Today, let’s talk about why a shot list matters, what to put in it, and how to write one that actually helps.
Why a Shot List Matters
Without a plan, shoots get sloppy: important angles get missed, extra shots get taken that nobody uses, and you end up doing reshoots. A good shot list fixes all of that.
It also prevents the common mistakes that hurt sales — like missing a detail shot a customer really needed.
What to Include
- Product variations — every color, size, or model that needs photos.
- Key angles — front, back, sides, top, and any angle buyers care about.
- Backgrounds — white background for Amazon, plus any lifestyle setups you want.
- Detail shots — close-ups of materials, stitching, buttons, or features.
- Scale and lifestyle shots — so buyers understand size and real use.
- Extras — packaging, infographic images, or short videos.
Not sure how many of each you need? My article on how many product photos you really need is a great starting point.
A Simple Template You Can Use
Here’s a clean, practical structure that works for most products:
- Hero set: 1–2 white background shots per product.
- Detail set: 3–5 close-ups of the most important features.
- Lifestyle set: 1–3 shots showing the product in use.
- Extras: scale shot, packaging shot, and 1–2 short videos if budget allows.
Share this with your photographer early — it makes the whole process smoother and faster.
Share It Early
The earlier you share your shot list, the better. It lets the photographer plan props, lighting, and time properly, and it gives you room to adjust before the shoot. This is also why booking early pays off.
Here’s a quick look at how planning and execution come together on a real shoot:
Common Shot List Mistakes
- Being too vague — “some photos” isn’t a plan. Be specific.
- Being too long — 50 variations of the same angle waste budget.
- Forgetting variations — listing one color when you sell four.
- Ignoring requirements — Amazon rules matter, so check my image requirements guide.
Final Thoughts
A shot list isn’t paperwork — it’s your guarantee that the shoot covers everything you need, nothing gets missed, and your budget goes where it matters. Spend ten minutes writing one before your next shoot, and you’ll feel the difference.
If you want help building a shot list for your products, just ask — I’m happy to draft one with you. No pressure, just practical advice.
