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JEWELLERY SHOOT DISCUSSION, PLANNING AND PREPARATION

Writer's picture: Andrea RussellAndrea Russell

Updated: Apr 24, 2024

In this article I discuss the planning and steps behind every jewellery shoot.  


Rose gold jewellery styled on rock slabs in a group
Rose gold jewellery styled with props

My first phone conversation with clients is always about their business and the pieces they want to photograph.  We talk about the type of jewellery they have; it may be large colourful costume jewellery, simple silver pieces or high-end diamond jewellery.   

 

Next we discuss the type of photography they are wanting.  This could be simple on-white products shots, group photos, model, styled or macro close ups.  We also talk about what the images will be used for and the cropping required.  I usually ask clients to email me examples of images they love the look of.  This gives me ideas on what they like and what they hope their images to look like.  We talk not only about the image aesthetics but also their feel and the impact they want to achieve through photography.  


Rose gold bracelet photographed on a clean white background
On-white product shot for web store

Next decision is the number of products and how many images of each product are required.  For web store images, rings often need 2 or 3 angles, others usually only one.  Some clients also want model images to show how their pieces will look when worn.  Others also need styled shots for social media posts or website banners. 

 

Models, styling, hair and make-up as well as props is all part of a big discussion if these type of images are required. 


Blond model in white wearing rose gold jewellery
Model wearing featured rose gold jewellery. My client wanted white, light, bright, natural, down to earth feel to these model images.


hands close up holding a rose gold bracelet
Model hands close up image

For large web-store-only photoshoots, we discuss the stock types and I let them know how to group pieces for the shoot.  For example, we may decide to shoot all stock that needs to be hanging.  In such instance they choose necklaces and drop earrings to get ready and pack in batch for the shoot.  If selecting stock that will be shot front-on, then they would pick stud earrings and rings.  These and other options are all explained and discussed with my clients in detail before the shoot.

 

Once the stock is grouped, polished, cleaned (tickets removed) then it is sent to my studio.  I work on 20-30 pieces per day although photoshoot time varies depending on the stock type.  Rings often need 2-3 angles and they are usually the most time-consuming pieces to work on. 

white gold diamond ring with a blue sapphire
Ring from above-on-angle shot

white gold diamond ring with a blue sapphire
Ring front-on angle shot


Various white gold pink and blue sapphire jewellery styled on white rock slabs
Group styled image example

After the first lot is photographed, my client collects it and brings the next lot at the same time.  If my client needs help with delivery of their product to my studio, I have a very reliable courier I recommend.  

 

File processing and then the all-important in-detail photoshop work starts after the photography work is complete.

 

I like to keep my clients informed as I work.  I know getting stock back in store is very important so I try my hardest not to hold on to it for very long.  This is why I get clients to send me stock in particular batches.  These batches match my lighting setups so the shoot is quicker.  To get through as much product as quickly as possible I also often work on the weekends.

 

During the time I work on jewellery photoshoots, I do not book any other jobs.  This is for security reasons.  I do not want anyone else in my studio while I have stock on hand.  Overnight or when not shooting, stock is always in my safe.

white gold pink diamond tennis bracelet on a clean white background
On-white web store tennis bracelet example
White gold blue sapphire heart shaped stud earrings
Front-on and side angle stud earrings example

Planning and being organised before the jewellery shoot is incredibly important.  Having a brief and a shot list is very handy.  It ensures everyone knows what is required and that no images are missed. 

 

If you are hoping to go through a discussion process for your own business, please get in touch via THIS link or call me on 0403 549 595.     

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