The beautiful outcome of every shoot is preceded by a number of factors, which is important for the successful execution of that shoot. To achieve success as it concerns proper execution of images involves a lot of processes some of which are proper planning, creating of moodboard, sourcing of materials, execution etc.
What do you want your images to communicate? Is there a specific concept or vision you have in mind? The use of emotive words to communicate the style and mood you hope to achieve and list any specific shots you need is the ideation process before execution. All of these would help photographers organize their shot list, equipment, props and talent before the day of the shoot. This process is needed for mental readiness and the proper execution of a shoot.
The importance of a moodboard cannot be overemphasised in your ideation process, the imagery you bring into your moodboard is what helps to shape the look and feel of your shoot. These would help define things like tone, cropping, lighting and colour. There are lots of websites where you can find great visual inspiration for free, like Designspiration, Instagram or Pinterest.
Your Ideation to execution process as a photographer is key in a successful image delivery and should not be skipped in preparation for a shoot.
