How to Shoot a Full Fashion Campaign in One Studio Day

How can you shoot a complete fashion campaign in a single studio day?

Completing a fashion campaign in just one studio day is realistic when you have a clear production plan, a skilled team and the right technical setup. The key is to stay organised and make sure everyone knows what they need to do. We see these shoots succeed because of preparation, trust and a space that works around your needs.

Strategic Pre-Production Planning

Know What You’re Shooting

Start by deciding what the campaign needs to communicate. Whether it is promoting a capsule collection or preparing for an editorial feature, having a defined visual theme makes decisions easier. Include reference images that show the intended lighting style, model poses, composition and overall mood. Clear direction helps the crew work smoothly together.

Make a Clear Shot List

A shot list is not just about keeping order, it protects the schedule. Plan for outfit changes, lighting setups, lens choices, close up shots for key product items and wider compositions for layouts. Note any garments that will need retouching or specific care on set. Ensure all model release forms and content usage rights are secured in advance, especially when images are for commercial advertising.

Build the Right Team

Working with people who know studio production is vital. Your photographer, director of photography, stylist, hair and makeup artists, assistants and digital operator all play an important role. When the crew understands the order of the day and the deliverables, your shoot runs more smoothly. Provide a clear call sheet and keep everyone informed from start to finish.

Studio Workflow and On-Set Execution

What layout helps a studio shoot run efficiently?

Design your space for movement and speed. Assign zones for each part of the production such as makeup, styling, client viewing, shooting and lunch. These zones help people stay focused and reduce delays. At Mammoth Film Studios, we support this with wide open studio space and on-site facilities so that production flows naturally.

Prepare Lighting and Equipment in Advance

Use high frequency LED panels, HMI lighting units and strobe systems depending on the campaign brief. Pre-light any sets you plan to rotate through the day. Place light stands and modifiers in preset positions and label all cables. For shoots involving multiple looks, plan for gel changes, colour temperature consistency and a reliable tethering workflow using Capture One or Lightroom.

Stay On Top of Styling

Keep each outfit on an individual hanger and group them by model or shoot sequence. Every piece should be steamed, checked and paired with accessories in advance. Assign a stylist assistant to manage outfit transitions so the photographer can continue shooting while models change.

Plan Your Set Layouts

Use a modular set design that lets you shift visual elements without resetting the lighting grid. Backdrops, vinyl flooring, props and elements like transparent panels or soft furnishings can transform the look with minimal time. Plan a rotation order and keep alternative sets prepped nearby to minimise waiting time.

Help Models Find Their Rhythm

Experienced models respond well to clear guidance and a supportive environment. Show mood boards and explain the energy you want in each shot. Natural expression often comes between directed poses so let them move and improvise a little. Capture moments that feel real and authentic. Make sure hair and makeup checks happen just before each take.

Keep Communication Open

Use tethered capture with a dedicated monitor for the photographer and client or art director. This allows real time approvals and makes it easier to adjust framing or lighting. Assign a person from the production team to note any client requests and track what has been signed off. This keeps the final file list clear and reduces questions later.

Stick to a Timeline

Time blocks for each look should include changeover, lighting tweaks and actual camera time. Build in breaks so the team stays focused. Keep to scheduled meal times and have catering organised nearby to avoid delays. At Mammoth Film Studios, our internal kitchen and crew area allow this without leaving the building.

Post-Shoot Processing and Delivery

Start Editing While the Shoot Wraps

As the shoot ends, your digital technician or editor should start tagging the strongest frames and creating backup copies. Set up your folder structure early and sort assets into usage types such as campaign visuals, press material and digital formats. Having an organised file system means a faster delivery for your post production team. Adobe Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve are often used here for editing and grading, depending on client requirements.

Prepare for Delivery

Final edits should include cropping for different aspect ratios, retouching for skin or garment details, and colour grading based on the campaign’s tone. Export in high resolution TIFF for print and JPEG in web optimised versions for ecommerce or social media. If your brand needs fast turnarounds, deliver pre approved selects to your post house directly from the studio.

Why does preparation make such a difference on the day?

A studio shoot depends on more than technical ability. The confidence to move through each scene comes from knowing the plan, understanding the team and using a space that is ready for professional results. At Mammoth Film Studios London, we have designed our space to support exactly this. With adaptable sets, lighting rigs and client facilities, fashion brands and creatives trust us to help them produce strong results quickly.

FAQs

What is the recommended team size for a full-day campaign shoot?

Six to ten people is typical. Include photographer, stylist, makeup and hair artists, assistant, producer and runner.

Can we do both photo and video content on the same day?

Yes. Our studios support hybrid production with separate lighting setups and capture stations if needed.

Do we need to bring our own lighting equipment?

You can use our full lighting kits which include LED, strobe and grip equipment. You are also welcome to bring specific gear if your fashion campaign requires it.

Can we book Mammoth Film Studios on the weekend?

Yes, weekend sessions are available. Speak to our team to reserve your preferred slot.

Do you provide support with set dressing and styling?

Yes, we can introduce you to experienced stylists, art directors and set designers who have worked in our space before. We also have props and modular backdrop options available in house.

To book your next campaign or ask about studio availability, visit Mammoth Film Studios London and speak with our team.