A Call-Sheet:
- Organizes a photo shoot
- Introduces the cast
- Contains contact information
- Outlines location details
- Sets for the production schedule
- Issues a call time
Just like mood boards, this tool is essential for photo shoots. My call sheets sometimes include artistic direction for the shoot, and it lists “Model Brings,” especially what types of undergarments to bring, what shoes they should provide (if any), and what their manicures should look like. Details, my friends.
The one time I did not issue a call sheet, the model sent me a message on Facebook unilaterally deciding to cancel the shoot less than 24 hours away. The makeup artist and I did not appreciate that gesture, but I also understand that information and communication is key when organizing a photo shoot. Call sheets also lessen the flake factor significantly.
Here is a sample call sheet I sent last year. One model actually did flake–the first girl, but that’s not the point of this blog post since the no-show provided the crew time to build sets, to plan lighting, and to build rapport. The end results delighted me, and you can see the photos here, here, and here. With an organized shoot, you’re already off to a great start.
Let me know if you found this blog post useful!
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Annie S. Intimates “Bollywood” Shoot

Shoot date: Sunday, April 19th, 2009
Shoot location: 45 Wall Street, New York City
Across from Trump Building, next to Tiffany & Co.
Accessible via 2/3, 4/5, J/M/Z trains
Contact: Amy Dunn (212) 555-5555
Photographer: Amy Dunn
Photo assistant: Jeff Fuller
Fashion Designer: Annie S. Intimates
Make up: Diana Manzanares
Hair Stylist: Cataanda J.
Jewelry Designer: TBD
Models: Angelique, Diana, Antoinette, Tashae
Call Times:
| 10:00 a.m. |
Angelique |
| 12:00 p.m. |
Antoinette, Diana |
| 2:00 p.m. |
Lunch |
| 4:00 p.m. |
Tashae |
Details
We are shooting a fashion series for the Bollywood collection from Annie S. Intimates. The images will be photographed in a small studio setting, and space will be tight. Since the area is rather limited, I ask that you please not bring additional parties to the shoot (i.e. no friends/escorts/entourages).
Please eat breakfast/lunch before your call-time. Annie has graciously offered to cook us some delicious snacks–and I will have some goodies available–but make sure you have foods that YOU like.
Model Brings: nude bra and underwear/thong, gold strappy sandals/heels if you have them. Models, please arrive with clean hair, clean face, and clear or no nail polish. Be bikini ready (‘ya never know), and make sure the legs are shaved as well. For your reference, these are some of the pieces we will showcase:
Annie S. Intimates Bollywood Collection
Let’s have a great shoot!
Tagged call-sheet, organization, production