CREATEs Inc. Photoshoot Experience:
Product Photography and Brand Development in New York City
From Plan to Product
With a strong passion for the beauty industry, I was excited to join the creative team at CREATEs Inc. for a professional product photoshoot in New York City. The shoot took place both in a Brooklyn studio and on location around the city, focusing on the Elemea Comb Straightener and Nomad Hair Dryer.
Prior to the shoot, I received a comprehensive introduction to the full production process. This included understanding how a product concept is developed, how models, photographers, and stylists are selected, and how a detailed shooting plan is created. I also learned about the importance of budget management, scheduling, and coordinating multiple moving parts to ensure a smooth production. This preparation gave me a clear understanding of both the creative and logistical workflow, allowing me to approach the experience with confidence and awareness.
Reflection
During the shoot, I took on a supporting role, assisting the team with various on-set tasks. I helped prepare and handle tools such as the hair straightener and hair dryer, passed products during shoots, and supported general organization and cleanup to ensure the set ran efficiently. While my role was behind the scenes, it allowed me to stay actively engaged and closely observe the workflow of a professional production.
I also had the opportunity to interact with the models, photographers, and creative staff, and I felt welcomed as part of the team. Their openness made it easy to learn, ask questions, and better understand the dynamics of a collaborative creative environment.
Overall, this experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the level of planning, teamwork, and attention to detail required to produce a successful beauty campaign. It strengthened my interest in working in an environment where creativity and strategy come together, and I look forward to taking on more responsibilities in future opportunities.
The Creative Mindset
Being on set gave me valuable insight into how a beauty campaign is carefully constructed. I observed how each element of lighting, styling, model direction, and product placement was intentionally adjusted to highlight the performance and aesthetic of the products. Small details, such as how the hair was styled or how the tools were positioned in each shot, made a significant difference in communicating the brand’s image.
I also saw how the team collaborated in real time, making quick creative decisions while staying aligned with the overall vision of the campaign. This experience helped me understand the balance between artistic creativity and commercial goals, and how strong communication is essential in a fast-paced production environment.