Emma Shipley Stylist Interview
How long have you been styling and how did you start?
I can actually remember styling my bedroom shelves, in my childhood home, from around the age of 8. I would re-arrange the books, and the glittery trinkets, on the shelves there for far too long. Luckily, many years later, and with more styling experience under my belt, I have got faster, and more decisive!
I really got into the role of a stylist whilst working (as the studio manager) for Thornback and Peel. Part of my job there was to plan and style their photoshoots. This was in 2007-2016 approx. After having my son in 2017, I decided to put all of my focus into freelance styling and have not looked back since - I can genuinely say that I love my job.
Why is Styling Important for Brands?
Hiring a stylist for a shoot is something that I’m sure many brands feel is an extravagance. However, the feedback I get from clients who have ‘bitten the bullet’ and hired me is that it has changed their photoshoot experience entirely. I take the stress out of the planning and preparation so that the client can focus solely on getting their product/s ready for the shoot. Honestly, I cannot stress enough that planning is the most important part of the styling process. If you get the planning and prep right, then you get SO much more from your photoshoot.
There are of course more obvious visual ways that a stylist adds value...for example, I have an extensive and ever-growing prop collection, knowledge of prop sources, a workshop in which I make/paint props, and several kind contacts who help me out with bespoke prop requests. Having the right props on set can really make a difference to the photographs.
I should perhaps also add that a few clients, who had previously thought that using a stylist was an extravagance, have been so pleased with the results that they have gone on to make several repeat bookings. That must mean there’s value in hiring a stylist, right?
Do you Have any Tips on Creating a Cohesive and Engaging Brand Look?
First and foremost, I would say…consider your colour palette. Whether you opt for a 'bright & bold' scheme, or a 'natural & calm' palette, colours have the power to bring a product range together cohesively like nothing else can.
Alongside this, and perhaps ironically coming from a prop stylist (!), don’t use too many props! Props need to add to the 'story' of the product rather than drawing attention away from the product. You want to have a selection of on-brand props that work together with the product, and with each other. Less really is more in my opinion.
What can Clients Expect When Working With you?
They can expect a warm, friendly and non-intimidating service from start to finish. I often work with clients who have never had a professional photoshoot before, and I understand that the process can seem very daunting. I am here to make the whole experience much less challenging and much more empowering.
I start by familiarising myself with the brand so that I fully understand the product, the target audience, and the brand aesthetic. Armed with that knowledge I am ready to prepare and plan for the photoshoot.
Having received a brief from the client, I start to bring the vision to life by creating a shot list, a shopping list, and a props list. I also compile mood boards of inspirational images to guide us with the planning stages and the shoot day.
I have a wide range of props (both new and vintage) which I select from and am also very happy to source additional props if something specific is required. Making and painting props is also part of my role.
LIKE THIS ARTICLE? PIN IT FOR LATER
