Thoughtful preparation helps your products look their best and keeps a photography session running smoothly. Before packing, check each item for marks, damage, missing parts, or packaging issues. Then gather any styling details, instructions, and backup pieces the photographer may need. This checklist covers the practical steps to take before your session, whether you are sending products to a studio or bringing them in yourself.
Inspect and Clean Every Item
Choose the exact products you want photographed, including the correct color, size, and version. Check each one under good light for dust, fingerprints, scratches, dents, loose threads, or uneven labels. Test lids, zippers, closures, and moving parts. If a product has a defect that cannot be fixed, flag it before the session so the photographer can plan the shot accordingly.
Clean items using methods that suit their materials. Use a soft, lint-free cloth for smooth surfaces, a gentle brush for textured areas, and appropriate care instructions for fabric, glass, or metal. Avoid strong cleaners that can leave residue or change a finish. Let products dry completely, then handle them with clean hands or gloves if fingerprints are likely.
Prepare Packaging and Details
Decide whether the product should be photographed with its packaging. If so, inspect boxes, labels, seals, and inserts for creases, smudges, or damage. Bring spare packaging when available, especially for items that are easy to mark during setup. Keep the package assembled as it should appear in the final image, and note whether any protective film should be removed.
Write down product names, variants, materials, and any details that must appear accurately. Include a reference image or link for items with multiple versions, and point out features that should not be hidden by styling. If the shoot includes accessories or components, list what belongs with each product and label pieces clearly. This helps prevent mix-ups during a busy session.
Plan a Simple Styling Kit
Share the intended use of the images and the look you want before the session. Bring a small selection of relevant props, such as ingredients, tools, or complementary objects, rather than a large assortment. Choose items that support the product without competing for attention. If you have brand guidelines, color references, or examples of images you like, provide them as visual direction.
Pack practical supplies that may help with last-minute adjustments: a lint roller, microfiber cloth, removable tape, scissors, and any product-specific tools. Keep supplies separate from the products to avoid accidental marks or residue. For fragile or perishable items, tell the photographer about handling needs in advance and confirm what should be prepared on the day.
Pack for Safe, Easy Setup
Wrap fragile products individually and use sturdy boxes with enough cushioning to prevent movement. Keep small parts in labeled bags, and avoid placing heavy items on delicate packaging. For liquids, secure caps, place each container in a leak-resistant bag, and pack upright when possible. Mark boxes clearly with handling instructions, but do not rely on labels as a substitute for proper protection.
Group products by shot or category, then include a simple packing list with quantities and any setup notes. Photograph the packed contents before closing the boxes, and keep tracking or delivery details accessible if items are being shipped. Allow time for products to settle after transport, especially fabric, plants, or items affected by temperature. Confirm arrival and any special handling instructions before the session.
A careful inspection, clear styling direction, and secure packing make it easier to capture polished product images without avoidable delays. Use the checklist to prepare each item and share important details with your photographer ahead of time. If you are planning a session in Christchurch, Tide & Form can help you organize the preparation and visual direction.