Time for a shoot??

[OSC]

So I'm new to the photography thing and did my first shoot a few weeks back - gearing up for my 2nd shoot and I was baffled (and a little unprepared) for the amount of time it takes to setup my gear, get the model dressed, props in place, etc. She changed outfits 4 times so that seemed to allow me some time to come up with a theme based on outfit, etc. but I was there for at least 4 hours.

I know that each shoot is unique and this is a case-by-case thing, but, for all of you pros out there, what is the "standard" time it takes for you to complete a shoot; from the time you get there, setup, do the shoot, pack your gear and go? Just curious. :)

[markblanchard13]

No, I fart around endlessly and talk too much, so I don't impose a time limit. I try to "read" when the model starts to lose interest in the shoot, or when they yell "Get the hell out of my house, you lunatic".

Mark

[DarksideTi]

Time to get them dressed? That’s nothing compared to the time to get them undressed. lol....ok that was uncalled for. :D

Your question has many answers. I complete some sessions in 1hr, and some take 4 or 5 hrs, some take all day. How complex the lighting is, how complex the wardrobe is, the makeup is, all of these things will adjust your time (also how difficult the model is). I recommend a lot of planning though, plan out your lighting, background (or location), props etc well ahead of time, make sure all of your gear is working and packed before you leave for a shoot or make sure its all ready to go if it's in studio. Sketch out lighting diagrams, prop placement diagrams, bring posing guides, these things will also save time and help the shoot flow better. But the real key is practice, the more you shoot, the better you'll get at using, placing and adjusting your gear and props on the fly.

Yes, I know that didn't "really" answer your question, but hopefully it helps. I will say though, that I can unpack and set up a basic shoot in 30min (from car to click), and break it down in about the same time.

[Cathpah]

Absolutely no "standard" amount of time....at least for me. It vastly depends on the wardrobe (how much attention it'll need, how long it'll take to put on, etc.), makeup (whether MUA is there, big makeup/subtle makeup, makeup changes for each look, etc), the model (whether she can bust out a few good poses instantly or whether you feel the need to take 50 frames to guarantee a good shot, how quickly she can move/get ready, etc.) and the set/idea that you're trying to accomplish. Outside/Inside? 1 light/7 lights? Reflectors? which modifiers? grids? Stands/booms? etc. etc. etc.

Assistants will help speed this up, but some shoots can take a long time. My best shots are probably split evenly between very quick shoots and very lengthy shoots. Sometimes more time is just needed.

[OSC]

Thanks for the replies everyone! Our shoot was about 4 hours and we went all over the place on this property for about 375 photos.

My first shoot was for a woman who wanted some shots for a casting company. She's hoping to be an extra is movies (already has been in a few and hoping for more). We did some outside shots and I learned A TON for the next shoot. Just not sure what casting companies look for.

Anyone have any idea what other extra hopefuls do for their photo shoots?

Thanks again for all of your replies!!!