Checklist

[Wes]

Gordon made me think of something with his Photo 101 thread. How many of you use some sort of checklist when preparing for a photo session, and if you do use one what's on it? For example, someone has hired you to do a location shot of family portriats. What kind of stuff do you consider before leaving? Stuff like, "Set the appropriate WB in the camera, remember X, Y, and Z poses, extra camera batt, reflectors, extra flash batt, etc."

[Wes]

So, no one uses any kind of reminders when going on a shoot?

I guess I'm getting old since I feel the need for one.

[JohnT]

I should probably use one but haven't yet disciplined myself. I do always remember, however, to make sure the batteries are fully charged. I have only two, and they are in the grip.

[photosbysergio]

The night before any photo shoot I always charge my camera batteries and flash batteries. I make sure my memory cards are ready to go. As for preparing for a photo shoot, I have a general idea of what I want to capture but every situation is somewhat different so I have to make last minute decisions when I get to the location. Such as camera settings. It gets easier to remember to stop and adjust the settings before and during the shoot. The less work I have to do at home in PS (still learning) the better.

To be safe, I have 2 camera bags. In one (a backpack), I carry everything that I usually need for a photo shoot (camera, batteries, flash, and favorite lenses). In the other smaller bag, I carry my backup camera, backup flashes, other lenses and spare batteries with chargers. The second bag usually stays in the trunk of the car but it's close enough for me to get to if i need it if it's an outdoor shoot. If it's an indoor shoot, it all goes inside with me.

I think no matter how much we prepare, we still forget something every now and then. At least I do.