Fashion Photography Requirements Form

Please remove this client intake form insights section before publishing.

Below is a detailed breakdown of each section of the Fashion Photography Client Intake Form, explaining its purpose, why it’s important, and how it helps streamline the workflow for both the photographer and the client.

1. Project Overview

Purpose:

• Establishes the type of shoot (e.g., editorial, e-commerce, lookbook) to align expectations.
• Helps determine resources needed (models, HMU, stylists, location).

Key Insights:

• Lookbook vs. E-Commerce:
  Lookbook shoots focus on storytelling and brand aesthetic.
  E-Commerce requires clean, consistent lighting and angles for product listings.
• Campaign/Editorial Shoots may need higher production value (models, stylists, unique locations).
• Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Coverage is growing in demand for social media content.

Why It Matters:

Miscommunication here can lead to wrong crew hires, unsuitable locations, or mismatched editing styles.

2. Creative Direction & Styling

Purpose:

• Captures the visual identity the client wants (mood, colors, inspiration).
• Determines if external stylists or HMU artists are needed.

Key Insights:

• Mood Boards (Pinterest/Instagram links) are crucial—they prevent subjective interpretations.
• Color Palette Preferences affect lighting, backdrop, and post-production choices.
• Model Preferences (gender, age, ethnicity) must align with the brand’s target audience.

Why It Matters:

A client saying "I want a high-fashion vibe" could mean minimalist studio shots (like Calvin Klein) or dramatic avant-garde (like Vogue Italia). References eliminate guesswork.

3. Logistics & Timeline

Purpose:

• Defines shoot logistics (location, dates, crew).
• Sets delivery expectations (turnaround time, retouching level).

Key Insights:

• Studio vs. Outdoor:
  Studio = Controlled lighting, no weather risks.
  Outdoor = Natural light, permits may be needed.
• RAW Files are often requested but should be an upsell (extra fee).
• Retouching Levels:
  Basic (color correction) for e-commerce.
  Advanced (skin smoothing) for beauty campaigns.
  Editorial (heavy compositing) for high-end fashion.

Why It Matters:

Clients may expect fast edits with heavy retouching—this section prevents disputes over delivery time and quality.

4. Budget & Pricing

Purpose:

• Filters clients into budget tiers to avoid scope creep.
• Identifies add-on services (HMU, styling, video).

Key Insights:

• Budget Ranges:
  $500.00–$1,500.00 → Small e-commerce/lookbook (1 model, minimal crew).
  $3,500.00+ → Full production (multiple models, stylists, HMU).
  Video Content is a growing upsell (BTS reels, campaign videos).

Why It Matters:

Clients with a $500.00 budget won’t get a $5,000.00 Vogue-style shoot—this sets realistic expectations early.

5. Client Expectations & Final Notes

Purpose:

• Uncovers hidden expectations (e.g., "This shoot must go viral").
• Addresses potential challenges (tight deadlines, difficult lighting conditions).

Key Insights:

• Top 3 Goals:
  Example: "Increase Instagram engagement, showcase new collection, attract buyers."
  Helps tailor the shoot (e.g., focus on shareable content).
• Challenges might include:
  "Models must wear oversized clothing without looking bulky."
  "Shooting in a crowded public space."

Why It Matters:

Clients often forget to mention critical details—this section acts as a safety net.

Final Thoughts: How This Form Improves Workflow

1. Reduces Back-and-Forth Emails – All key details are captured upfront.
2. Prevents Scope Creep – Clear pricing and deliverables avoid "Can you just…?" requests.
3. Aligns Creative Vision – Mood boards and references keep everyone on the same page.
4. Streamlines Production – Knowing crew/location needs early avoids last-minute chaos.

Suggested Improvements (Optional Add-Ons):

• Kill Fee Clause – For cancellations/postponements.
• Usage Rights Section – Who owns the images? Exclusive or non-exclusive?
• Weather Contingency Plan – For outdoor shoots.