In film production, a photoshoot plays an important supporting role alongside video shooting. It is not just about taking pictures but about creating a visual library that supports the film’s promotion, continuity, and overall production process.
Purpose of Photoshoots in Film Production
Promotional Material
High-quality stills are used for posters, social media, press kits, and marketing campaigns.
Behind-the-scenes (BTS) photos create buzz before the release.
Continuity Reference
Photos of costumes, sets, props, and actors help maintain consistency across different days of shooting.
Character & Look Development
Photoshoots are done before filming to finalize the look of each character (makeup, hairstyle, wardrobe).
Documentation
Serves as a visual record of the filmmaking process.
Types of Photoshoots in Film Production
Pre-Production Photoshoot
Look Test / Costume Trials: Photos taken to finalize makeup, hairstyle, costumes, and lighting tests.
Helps directors and designers decide on the character’s appearance.
On-Set Photoshoot
Behind-the-Scenes (BTS): Capturing crew at work, equipment setup, and candid moments.
Continuity Shots: Used for props, costumes, and makeup references.
Stills During Filming: Photos of actual scenes being filmed (sometimes taken by a still photographer).
Promotional Photoshoot
Posters & Media: Actors pose in character or stylized settings for film posters, teasers, and press coverage.
Thematic Shoots: Sometimes creative concepts are shot just for marketing campaigns.
People Involved
Still Photographer: A professional hired specifically for on-set stills.
Publicity Team: Uses these images for marketing.
Costume & Makeup Department: Uses continuity photos for reference.
Equipment Used
Professional DSLR / Mirrorless Cameras with high-resolution sensors.
Lighting Kits for controlled photoshoots.
Tripods & Gimbals for stability.
Editing Software: Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture One for post-processing.