Styled Shoots: A Creative Opportunity for Modern Celebrants

Have you considered participating in a styled shoot but weren’t quite sure where to start? As an independent celebrant, these collaborative photo sessions offer brilliant opportunities to showcase your ceremony style visually and get some stunning, professional photos to use on your website and social media, all whilst building valuable industry connections. Let’s explore how to make the most of these creative ventures.

Understanding Styled Shoots

Celebrant Mentor Miranda Ash says “Never underestimate the value of collaborating with other suppliers and getting some great photographs for your own marketing at the same time! These kinds of shoots are hard work but so much fun and I’ve made some great friends and contacts along the way,” . Styled Shoots aren’t just about getting gorgeous shots to promote your business, there are the hidden benefits of networking and making meaningful connections too!

TFP vs Paid Shoots

There are two main types of styled shoots:

• TFP (Time for Pics): A free collaboration where everyone exchanges their time and skills for photos they can use in their portfolios – it might include venues, florists, wedding dress shops, Make up artsist and other suppliers
• Brand Shoots: Paid sessions specifically planned around your brand and business needs – you’ll need to arrange the venue, organise models, decor and plan every element of the shoot.

Planning Your Ceremony Elements

Creating Natural Ceremony Moments

To make your styled shoot feel authentic, prepare a short ceremony script. This gives a real feel to the set-up and helps create those magic ceremony moments. Include:

• A brief welcome
• Vows and ring exchange
• Visual elements like handfasting for added interest
• The celebratory kiss announcement

Shot List for Ceremony Elements

Consider these key moments to capture:

• Ceremony shots with the couple as the focus while you work in the background
• Reversed angles highlighting your role as the celebrant
• Action shots of ritual elements like handfasting or candle lighting
• Detailed photographs of ceremony accessories and symbolic items

Styling and Presentation

What to Wear

Penny Boycott offers this valuable guidance: “You want to stand out but not clash. Be in keeping with the vibe, but not so much that you become part of the backdrop. Think about what brand identity you have (it should already be within the shoot’s styling, appealing to your ideal clients otherwise, why are you there?) and try and showcase your brand ID.“

Practical Styling Tips

• Choose outfits that complement the mood board
• Consider practical elements like weather conditions
• Pack appropriate outerwear for outdoor shoots
• If your brand colours don’t match the shoot’s theme, stick to neutral clothing with personalised accessories.

Seasonal Considerations

“Be practical, and think about the timing of your shoot,” advises Penny Boycott. “If a shoot is aimed at Summer couples to make bookings, you want to be sure the shoot will still be what you need to use across the rest of the year. Think like a retail shop—they’re already working on their Christmas marketing plans in July.”

Miranda Ash’s Halloween-themed styled shoot is perfect for Miranda’s alternative brand persona and since many of her clients love gothic styling – it works all year round for promotion. She even had a graphic designer turn the brides’ vows into styled booklets for the shoot – subtly reminding her clients that there are no cookie-cutter ceremonies in Miranda’s world!

Finding Styled Shoot Opportunities

Search local facebook groups or wedding supplier groups for opportunities, or Join these dedicated Facebook groups:

• Styled Shoots UK
• LGBTQ+ Styled Shoots UK
• Styled Shoots and Elopements
• Additional Styled Shoot Group

Creating Your Own Opportunities

Take inspiration from AMC Graduate Gill Moses: “The styled shoot doesn’t seem nearly as available here in Ireland, so I’ve created one myself… If you can’t find it, create it!” Gill networked with local businesswomen to organise a collaborative shoot, including photographers looking to expand their portfolios. “I booked a lovely venue with good light, nice decor, and a nice outdoor area, too,”.

Her collaborative spirit brought together a wonderful blend of creative professionals:

• A landscape photographer eager to explore portraiture
• A relationship mediator bringing depth to the romantic narrative
• A herbal tea creator adding unique refreshment elements
• Several holistic therapists
• A sister duo specialising in natural flower floristry

Consider who you might collaborate with to showcase your brand and attract your ideal clients.

Maximising Your Photo Content

Strategic Social Media Sharing

Rather than posting all images at once, consider this structured approach:

1. Share a teaser post
2. Post behind-the-scenes content
3. Reveal the professional images
4. Create a highlight reel
5. Tag all suppliers involved

Long-term Content Strategy

• Use images across your website and directory listings
• Create marketing materials and flyers
• Schedule periodic throwback posts
• Update your social media profiles regularly

Alternative Options

For funeral celebrants, organisations like Coffin Club offer specialised brand photoshoots with props and locations included.

Final Thoughts

Remember, you’re investing your time and expertise in these shoots. Don’t forget to go armed with a list of shots you’d like to achieve and discuss these with the photographer beforehand. Whether you join an existing shoot or organise your own, these creative collaborations can significantly enhance your celebrancy business while building lasting professional relationships.