My First Fashion Photoshoot: What I Learned Along the Way

When I started Cuurve, I had no idea how much I'd need to learn about photoshoots! As someone with zero fashion background, I found myself googling everything from "what is a lookbook" to "how to talk to models about underwear." I actually planned my first photoshoot for July 2024 but had to cancel it due to manufacturing issues. Finally, in March 2025, I managed to coordinate everything for the real thing. After completing my first official photoshoot (with plenty of lessons learned), I wanted to share my experience for any other newbies taking the DIY approach.

Finding a Photographer Who Gets Your Vision

My photographer story is a lesson in keeping those business cards! I met Majean at a women's networking event back in 2022 and tucked her card away. Months later, while randomly sorting through a stack of business cards, I came across it and decided to reach out. We clicked immediately during our first call - she understood my vision for Cuurve and the aesthetic I was going for. I knew right away I wanted to work with her, even before seeing her full portfolio. That personal connection and communication style turned out to be so much more important than I expected.

What worked for me:

• Networking events are golden for making these connections
• Trust your instincts about personal chemistry with creative partners
• Being honest about my inexperience rather than pretending to know industry terms
• Showing examples of what I liked instead of trying to explain it technically

Studio Hunting on a Startup Budget

Studio costs shocked me initially - some places in London quoted me £500+ per day! Thankfully, my photographer suggested using Peerspace, which was brilliant for finding options across all budgets and styles.

I ended up renting a photographer's flat that already had all the equipment set up, plus different rooms and settings that worked perfectly for lifestyle shots. This turned out to be much more versatile than a blank studio space would have been, allowing us to create diverse content in one location.

Pro tip I learned: Always check what equipment is included and whether there are any restrictions on shooting hours or specific areas of the venue.

Finding Models Who Embody Your Brand

This was definitely the trickiest part! I initially reached out to several models online but found it difficult to establish connections or get responses. What actually worked was tapping into my network of other female founders, who were incredibly helpful in recommending models they'd worked with previously.

In the end, my model lineup was a mix of:

• Two friends who were willing to help out
• My makeup artist who also modelled (bonus!)
• A model recommended by another female founder

Rather than paying my models, I gave them all the samples of the underwear they modelled, which worked well for everyone. They got premium underwear, and I kept costs manageable while still ensuring they felt valued.

Model Release Forms - The Legal Necessity

Having model release forms signed before the shoot was absolutely essential. My photographer had a template to use and there are many templates online. 

My basic form included:

• Clear permission to use photos on my website, social media, and advertising
• Details about compensation (in my case, the product samples)
• How long I could use the images for
• Whether they could also use the images (we agreed they could, with tags to Cuurve)

Interestingly, none of my models asked for changes to the form - they were all comfortable with the standard terms. But having everything clearly documented gave me peace of mind about using the images for marketing.

The Styling Challenge

I was fortunate to find Tricia, a stylist through my founder network who was willing to help with the shoot. Her guidance was invaluable, especially the accessories she brought along that elevated the entire look.

Having a professional stylist meant:

• The shots looked more cohesive and professional
• She brought items I wouldn't have thought to include
• She knew how to make quick adjustments for the camera
• I could focus on other aspects of directing the shoot

My biggest styling lesson: Having a professional who understands how things translate on camera makes an enormous difference, even for something seemingly simple like underwear.

Day-of Reality: Expect the Unexpected

On shoot day, I learned that coordinating four models with one photographer meant quite a bit of waiting around for everyone. While makeup and hair actually took the expected amount of time (unlike what I'd read online), other aspects threw our schedule off.

What I learned:

• Providing lunch was essential for keeping everyone's energy up
• Uber Eats took 30 minutes longer than expected, so plan accordingly!
• Having multiple models is great for variety but creates downtime
• Always overestimate how long everything will take

Despite some logistical challenges, the positive energy and collaboration made the day successful.

Top Tips for a Successful Shoot

After going through this experience, I've compiled my top tips that made a real difference:

• Portable steamer is essential - My stylist brought one and it was a lifesaver! Underwear needs to look perfectly smooth in photos, and the steamer quickly removed any packaging creases.
• A checklist of your photoshoot - A month before, a week before and on the day itself. It really helped me coordinate everything and everyone and make sure the day run smoothly. If you'd like mine, just add yourself to the Cuurve Collective newsletter and I'll get it sent to your inbox!
• Ask a friend - I had a dear friend come and help with on the day of the shoot despite her fasting and it being Ramadan, bless her. But it was so helpful to have her there and take BTS shots of myself and my creative team to later use in socials and for the memories!
• Accessible shot list - Have your shot list printed out and easily referenced by both you and your photographer. We used a clipboard that could be passed around as needed.
• Moodboard on display - I had my moodboard accessible on an iPad throughout the shoot, which helped everyone stay aligned with the visual direction. It was especially useful when trying different poses.
• Buffer time between setups - Build in 15-20 minutes between major scene changes to avoid feeling rushed.
• Snacks and water - Keep energy levels high with healthy snacks and plenty of water available throughout. It was important to me that everyone kept hydrated - I was not going to risk anyone feeling unwell on the day!
• Music playlist - Create a playlist that matches the energy you want for your brand - it really helps create the right atmosphere.
  
  

What I'll Do Differently Next Time

Now that I've got one shoot under my belt, here's what I'll change:

• Reduce the number of models to 2-3 max to minimize waiting time
• I had scheduled 8 hours for the shoot, but realized it could have been done in 6 with fewer models
• Arrange food delivery with more buffer time
• Take more behind-the-scenes content for social media
• Prepare a more detailed shot list with example poses
  
  

Was It Worth Doing It Myself?

Absolutely. Despite the stress and learning curve, doing it myself meant that every image truly reflected the Cuurve vision. No agency would have cared as much about showing the comfort features or highlighting the sustainable materials in exactly the right way.

Plus, the connections I made with the creative team mean I now have people who understand my brand for future projects. That relationship-building has been invaluable.

If you're just starting out like I was, don't be intimidated by the glossy shoots of big brands. Start small, be authentic, and remember: everyone in fashion had a first photoshoot too!

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Want my complete first photoshoot planning checklist? Available to download through my bio-site here.