Getting a styled shoot published can be a bit tricky. The whole process can be a bit overwhelming and there’s a lot to consider when choosing which publication to submit to. Today we have Alexa of Alexa Kay Events sharing with us her tips on how to go about getting a styled shoot published. Are you wondering how you can get ready for a styled shoot? Check out our Styled Shoot Workbook here.
Getting a Styled Shoot Published
To wedding industry professionals, styled shoots and styled shoot publications are very important. Not only do they give us a chance to express our creativity and showcase inspiration, but they are also awesome networking opportunities. From the benefits, to the design process and getting published, you can find all the details of what I do in this post!
Benefits of a Styled Shoot
First, let’s start with why styled shoots are beneficial and why I like them. Styled shoots allow vendors within the wedding community work together without the pressure of a real wedding. During wedding days, often times we’re all so busy and although we talk to one another, we don’t get to make those connections on a deeper level. With styled shoots there is more time to think as well. For example, photographers can play around with different shots and flat lays, wedding planners can play around with table aesthetics, cake designers can try a new design, and so on.
Another amazing thing about these shoots is that they are awesome marketing opportunities. When each wedding vendor shares the styled shoot via their Instagram, Pinterest, blog, etc., each vendor gets tagged. This is great exposure for your business. You’re able to reach more potential clients and they are able to see what you can do! In addition to this, you can end up with vendor referrals. This is KEY to the wedding industry. Once you work well with another vendor referrals is something you can live off of.
Process of a Styled Shoot
1. Moodboard
Styled shoots start with inspiration. Whether you already have an idea or are piecing together elements you like to create a design, a moodboard is going to be your best friend! This will showcase the colors, textures, decor, dress, photo inspiration, and anything that sparks the magic of your creativity!
2. Vendor Team
Once you have the design together, you can then start finding your vendor team that you think will be able to carry out the vision. Photographers and florists are usually the first ones I try to find.
3. Models
Next, you need models! This can be tricky sometimes. I usually find my models through Instagram. I will look through multiple profiles and then direct message those that I think would be great to work with. Yes, this part can be little awkward at times since you may be randomly reaching out to people, but it works! Bonus: it’s just another chance to network with more people.
4. Share All the Information
Once you had the team together and the models committed, share all the information in regards to the styled shoot. This includes the timeline, location, moodboard, and vision.
5. The Week Before
A week or so before the shoot, I will send out an all inclusive email with vendor tags, address, timeline and details of what everyone is expected to bring. This way there is no confusion and gives everyone enough time to ask questions before the day of.
6. The Day Of
On the day of the shot, all you’ve got to do it show up and remember to have fun! These days can be long and may even take longer than you think to get everything you want out of it (i.e. photos, design aspects, etc.) But, that’s okay! You spent all this time prepping for it so might as well get everything you want out of it. Plus, as a I mentioned before it’s so nice to be able to work with and connect with other vendors from the industry. Once you finally finish the entire shoot, next thing is to make sure to submit to a publication.
Process to Getting Published
1. Tell the Story
One important thing to remember is that publications want DETAILS. They love to see the scene evolve and see where you the inspiration came from. Usually I will create a storyline throughout the day and then use that to create a story in words that is relatable. This helps the editor be drawn to your shoot!
2. Find a Good Fit
Once I have the storyline, I then do research on the theme, style and vision to find the right publications to submit to! Not all publications are the same so it’s important to find one that works best for the styled shoot aesthetic.
3. Choose Photos
After all of that is done, I narrow down the photos to the top 50-100 (depending on what the publication asks for) to submit. Be sure that you’re choosing photos to showcase all aspects of the shoot.
How to Submit to Publication
Most times, I submit directly to the publication that I would like our work to be featured on. This means going to a website finding the submit page and filling it out. This takes time because usually they ask for each vendor’s email, website and Instagram handle. Other times I use Matchology or Two Bright Lights to streamline, but it all depends on the publication!
After Getting Published
Once I’m published, I make sure to put the badge from the publication on my website and link the shoot to it. I also blog about it and publicize it on social.
Styled shoot publications are such a great accomplishment and something to be proud of! Having your work feature, not only shows off your creativity, but also is great brand exposure. I hope these tips have inspired you or have helped you through the process. You’re now one step closer to being a master at styled shoot publications!
Trying to plan a styled shoot of your own, but feeling stuck? Check out our Styled Shoot Workbook here.
Alexa Kay Events is a Dallas + Fort Worth based full service wedding planning company founded by Alexa Kay. As an insanely organized and driven individual, she loves all things weddings! Alexa thrives on helping couples bring their dream wedding to life and make the process as fun as it possibly can be!
