- Love Sparkle Pretty Blog -: {Photo Shoot-FBF} My First Collaboration + How to Get Photographers to Photograph Your Product

A couple years ago when I made the decision to leave nursing school to pursue my passion of creativity and design, I had to learn new skills and what it would take to run a small business. Amongst experimenting with sewing and making different accessories, I started creating new pieces from single flower clips to floral crowns for styled photo shoots. I handcrafted these pieces specifically for shoots without the intent of actually selling them because at the time, I didn't think anyone would actually buy crowns (thankfully I was wrong).

After I had made my first crown for a shoot with a local photographer, I was approached via email by Jennifer, a part-time model in Canada. She was working with Sarah Sovereign on an upcoming shoot and wanted me to create a floral crown for their vision. This was my first collaboration outside of CA and outside of the states. I wasn't sure how these things worked but it was the start of my networking skills and I dove right in.

I remember feeling like a little sponge a few years ago (I still am) trying to learn everything I can and since I craved beautiful photos of my pieces (a cell phone just doesn't cut it all the time), I found ways to collaborate with talented photographers.

I've been asked by a few business owners how to go about getting photographers to take photos of product. I know it can be a bit nerve wrecking at first but if they aren't asking you, you ask them! Find photographers whom you really admire their work, fit your brand aesthetic and would genuinely photograph your product (I wouldn't ask a wedding photographer to photograph handmade pillows if that's what you do). Ask them if they have any styled shoots or would be interested in shooting your pieces. The worse they can say is no and you move on but if they say yes, send them your product, include a return label if requested (most photogs will graciously mail it back to you) and once they have sent you the photos, remember to share them and give them credit! It's a 2 way street. They get their name spread and you get yours. Plus, if you made a great connection, you can work together again in the future.

Here is one of the first shoots I collaborated on and since it reminds me of Fall, it seemed like a good time to share. Thank you again Sarah Sovereign for your pretty photos and thank you Jenn for reaching out to me!!