Fashion Shoot Timeline: Your Step‑by‑Step Guide

Planning a fashion shoot can feel like juggling a circus. You’ve got models, makeup artists, outfits, locations, and a tight deadline. The secret isn’t magic—it’s a clear timeline that tells everyone what to do and when. Below you’ll find a practical roadmap you can copy, tweak, and run with for any type of shoot.

Pre‑Shoot Planning & Wardrobe Checklist

Start two weeks before the shoot. First, lock down the concept: mood board, color palette, and the story you want to tell. Share that with the photographer, stylist, and the model so everyone’s on the same page.

Next, create a master checklist. List every outfit, shoes, accessories, and backup pieces. Add a column for sizes, laundry status, and who’s responsible for packing. Throw in a quick “must‑bring” list for the model—hair ties, extra socks, and a compact mirror. Having this list in a shared Google Sheet lets the whole team tick off items in real time.

Don’t forget the paperwork. Model releases, location permits, and any brand approvals need to be signed at least three days before the shoot. A missed signature can shut down the day, so treat those as “must‑do” items, not optional.

Day‑Of Timeline & Post‑Production

On the shoot day, aim for a tight schedule but keep a 15‑minute buffer for each major block. Here’s a solid template:

• 08:00 – Team arrival, gear check, and quick brief.
• 08:30 – Model hair & makeup (allow 45 minutes).
• 09:15 – Wardrobe fitting and final adjustments.
• 09:30 – First set of shots (lighting, composition).
• 11:00 – Break, outfit change, and review of images.
• 11:30 – Second set (different poses, angles).
• 13:00 – Lunch break (keep it short, hydrate).
• 13:30 – Final set (creative shots, close‑ups).
• 15:00 – Wrap, gear pack, and thank‑you notes.

After the shoot, upload raw files to a cloud folder within an hour. Share a short note with the team highlighting the best shots and any missing angles. This speeds up the editing process and lets the stylist know which outfits need touch‑ups before the final look.

Finally, set a post‑production deadline—usually 48 hours for basic retouching and 5‑7 days for a full polish. Deliver the final images to the client with a brief recap of the timeline, what worked, and any lessons for the next project. A clear, concise wrap‑up shows professionalism and makes it easier to land repeat business.

With this timeline in place, you’ll spend less time scrambling and more time creating stunning fashion images. Grab a pen, set up your checklist, and watch your shoots run smoother than ever.