Location
Your location can make or break your entire project. For the RH campaign, we searched far and wide before narrowing it down to our top two choices, places that truly aligned with the story we wanted to tell. We scouted each spot multiple times, walked the grounds, studied the light, and mapped out exactly where each moment would unfold.
And once you find that location, the real work begins:
Who do you contact to book it? Is there a fee? Are there restrictions: number of people, where you can and can’t shoot, or areas that need extra approval? Do you need a permit?
These are the questions that save you time, protect your project, and build trust with the space you’re using. Never assume it’s okay to shoot, a lesson we learned the hard way, and one we want to pass on so you don’t have to.
Dial in your location, and you’re already halfway there. For this project, the space truly spoke for itself and brought the entire vision to life.
Communication
Clear communication is everything! With models, designers, photographers, and the full team. Confirm call times, expectations, deliverables, and boundaries early to avoid confusion on set.
Time Management
Arrive early, prepare for delays, and build extra time for styling, makeup, outfit changes, and location transitions. A smooth shoot always comes from pacing, not pressure.
And let’s be real… this is way easier when you’re only working with one or two models. Once you’ve got a whole group, things can get hectic. Someone gets lost, someone’s running late, someone cancels last minute, or shows up with no makeup. And if you’re outdoors? The weather can switch up on you in seconds.
That’s why having a backup plan isn’t optional—it’s a must. It’ll save you every time.
Contracts
Have your contracts finalized and signed before the shoot. Clear agreements protect everyone’s time, creative work, and expectations. When the paperwork is complete, the production can flow with confidence and clarity.
Model Direction
Every model has a different comfort level. Provide gentle guidance, encouragement, and clear poses to bring out their best. A supported model always performs better.
Deliverables Management
Know exactly what is being delivered, in what format, and when. Make sure all content aligns with the brand.
Weather & Lighting
Check the forecast, prepare a backup plan, and understand how natural lighting changes throughout the day. Flexibility makes or breaks an outdoor shoot
Things won’t always go as planned. Stay adaptable, think creatively, and adjust your vision on the spot when needed.
Professionalism on Set
Keep the energy positive, stay respectful, and avoid unnecessary comments about appearance, height, or body size. A kind set creates the best work.
Team Roles
Assign defined roles: styling, BTS, directing models, handling garments, checking shot lists. When everyone knows their lane, the shoot runs like a production, not chaos.
Organization/Respecting Designers’ Pieces
Handle garments with care, understand the intention behind each look, and style according to the designer’s vision.
Keep every look organized: labeled hangers, pre-planned outfits, and a clear sequence for styling. It saves time, reduces stress, and ensures the designer’s vision is honored from the first outfit to the last.
Snacks & Hydration
A well-fed team is a focused team. Bring snacks, water, and quick energy boosters for models and crew. Long shoots run smoother when everyone stays hydrated and taken care of.
Respecting Multiple Opportunities
Models and creatives work with many brands, shows, and productions and that’s something we celebrate! We don’t see others as rivals; we see them as part of a wider ecosystem of talent. There is no need to gatekeep when we all benefit from shared creativity. The heart of Qura Creative is collaboration, everyone brings something valuable to the table.