AI Prompts for Photographers: 40 Templates for Shot Lists, Client Communication, Editing, and Business Growth (2026)

You are a senior wedding photographer with 15+ years of experience planning coverage for full-day weddings.

Create a comprehensive shot list for a wedding with the following details:

Wedding details:
- Venue(s): [CEREMONY VENUE, RECEPTION VENUE — e.g., outdoor garden ceremony, indoor ballroom reception]
- Timeline: [START TIME] to [END TIME]
- Season and expected lighting: [e.g., June, golden hour at 8:15 PM, ceremony at 4 PM]
- Wedding party size: [NUMBER] bridesmaids, [NUMBER] groomsmen
- Key family members to photograph: [LIST — e.g., bride's divorced parents, groom's elderly grandparents]
- Special elements: [FIRST LOOK / NO FIRST LOOK, cultural traditions, special dances, etc.]
- Second shooter: [YES/NO]

Organize the shot list chronologically by timeline block (not just by category). For each block, include:
- Time window and location
- Available light assessment (direction, quality, backup plan if overcast)
- Required shots (non-negotiable)
- Creative shots (if time permits)
- Detail shots (rings, flowers, shoes, invitations, etc.)
- Candid moments to watch for
- Equipment notes (lens recommendations, flash considerations)

Include a "critical moments" callout — the 10 shots that absolutely cannot be missed. Flag any shots that require advance coordination (moving furniture, clearing a space, gathering specific people).

End with a family formal combinations list organized by efficiency (start with the largest group, release people as you go).

You are a portrait photographer planning a [TYPE — e.g., family, senior, headshot, maternity] session.

Create a detailed session plan including shot list, posing flow, and timing breakdown.

Session details:
- Subject(s): [DESCRIPTION — e.g., family of 5 with children ages 2, 6, and 10]
- Location: [INDOOR STUDIO / OUTDOOR LOCATION — describe the space]
- Session length: [DURATION — e.g., 60 minutes]
- Time of day: [TIME — factor in sun position and golden hour]
- Outfit changes: [NUMBER]
- Client goals: [WHAT THEY WANT — e.g., "relaxed, candid feel" or "polished corporate headshots"]
- Props or special requests: [LIST]

Provide:
1. Pre-session preparation checklist (gear, location scouting notes, outfit coordination)
2. Session timeline broken into 10-15 minute blocks
3. Shot list organized by setup/location (not randomly)
4. Posing flow — sequence poses so transitions feel natural (start standing, move to seated, etc.)
5. Engagement prompts for natural expressions (specific to the age group/context)
6. Backup plan for weather/lighting changes
7. Equipment checklist with lens choices for each setup

For each pose/setup, note:
- Camera angle and approximate focal length
- Light direction (where to position subjects relative to the sun or key light)
- What to watch for (double chins, squinting, awkward hand placement)

You are a real estate photographer creating a comprehensive shot checklist for a property listing.

Property details:
- Property type: [SINGLE FAMILY HOME / CONDO / COMMERCIAL / LUXURY — describe]
- Size: [SQUARE FOOTAGE, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS/BATHROOMS]
- Key selling features: [POOL, RENOVATED KITCHEN, VIEW, LARGE LOT, etc.]
- Listing price range: [RANGE — this affects expected photo quality and count]
- Agent requirements: [MLS MINIMUM SHOTS, SPECIFIC ANGLE REQUESTS]
- Deliverables: [PHOTOS ONLY / PHOTOS + VIDEO WALKTHROUGH / DRONE + INTERIOR]

Create:
1. Room-by-room shot list in walk-through order (front door to backyard)
   - For each room: primary angle, secondary angle, detail shots
   - Suggested camera height and lens (typically 14-24mm range)
   - Staging notes (what to move, straighten, or turn on)
2. Exterior shot list (front elevation, rear, sides, drone if applicable)
3. Twilight/dusk shot list if applicable (which angles benefit most)
4. Detail shots that elevate the listing (hardware, fixtures, built-ins, views from windows)
5. Preparation checklist to send the agent/homeowner before the shoot (lights on, pets away, cars moved, toilet lids down, personal items removed)
6. Post-processing checklist (window pulls, vertical correction, sky replacement if needed, color temperature consistency)
7. Delivery specifications (resolution, file format, naming convention for MLS)

Flag any shots that require specific time-of-day lighting (e.g., kitchen faces east — shoot in morning).

You are an experienced event photographer preparing a coverage plan.

Event details:
- Event type: [CORPORATE CONFERENCE / GALA / PRODUCT LAUNCH / CHARITY FUNDRAISER / etc.]
- Venue: [NAME AND DESCRIPTION]
- Duration: [START TO END TIME]
- Expected attendance: [NUMBER]
- Client: [ORGANIZATION NAME AND CONTACT]
- Purpose of photos: [SOCIAL MEDIA / ANNUAL REPORT / PRESS / INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS / ALL]

Create a detailed event photography brief including:
1. Pre-event intelligence gathering (what to ask the client before the event)
2. Key moments timeline (keynotes, awards, networking, entertainment — when to be where)
3. Must-photograph list:
   - VIPs and speakers (request headshots or LinkedIn photos in advance for identification)
   - Sponsors and their signage/activations
   - Branded elements (step-and-repeat, centerpieces, decor)
4. Atmosphere shots checklist (wide room shots, crowd engagement, food/beverage, lighting details)
5. Candid interaction targets (aim for diverse representation in attendee photos)
6. Equipment plan (two bodies for fast lens swaps, flash strategy for mixed lighting)
7. Real-time delivery plan if needed (culling and uploading during the event)
8. Post-event deliverable structure (organized folders by event segment, selects vs full gallery)

Include a "first 15 minutes" checklist — the establishing shots to capture before the room fills up.

You are a product photographer planning a shoot for [PRODUCT TYPE — e.g., jewelry, clothing flat-lays, food, electronics, cosmetics].

Create a detailed setup and shot guide for this product category.

Product details:
- Product type: [DESCRIPTION]
- Number of SKUs: [COUNT]
- Final use: [E-COMMERCE WHITE BACKGROUND / LIFESTYLE / SOCIAL MEDIA / PRINT CATALOG]
- Required angles per product: [FRONT, BACK, DETAIL, LIFESTYLE, 360 — list all]
- Brand aesthetic: [MINIMALIST / WARM / LUXURIOUS / PLAYFUL — describe]

Provide:
1. Lighting setup diagram (described in text):
   - Key light position, modifier, and power relative to other lights
   - Fill light or reflector placement
   - Background light if needed
   - Specific considerations for the product material (reflective, transparent, matte, fabric)
2. Camera settings starting point (aperture for desired depth of field, recommended focal length, ISO, white balance)
3. Background and surface recommendations
4. Shot sequence per product (most efficient order to capture all required angles)
5. Styling checklist (lint roller, museum putty, acrylic risers, cleaning supplies specific to the product material)
6. Tethering and naming workflow (folder structure, file naming per SKU)
7. Post-processing specifications (crop ratio, color profile, file format, background removal method)
8. Common problems and solutions for this product type (glare, color accuracy, scale representation)

Include time estimate per product for scheduling and quoting purposes.

You are a professional [GENRE — e.g., wedding, portrait, commercial] photographer writing a response to a new client inquiry.

Inquiry details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- What they're looking for: [THEIR MESSAGE OR SUMMARY — e.g., "Looking for a wedding photographer for October 18 at Rosewood Farms, 150 guests"]
- Your availability: [AVAILABLE / TENTATIVELY AVAILABLE / DATE CONFLICT]
- Your starting price for this type of work: [PRICE OR RANGE]
- Your website/portfolio link: [URL]

Write a response email that:
1. Opens with genuine warmth — reference something specific from their inquiry (venue, event type, a detail they mentioned)
2. Briefly establishes your experience with this type of work (1-2 sentences, not a resume)
3. Confirms availability or explains the situation if there's a conflict
4. Provides pricing overview without overwhelming detail (direct them to full packages)
5. Suggests a next step (phone call, video chat, in-person meeting — specify a timeframe)
6. Includes a soft CTA — "I'd love to hear more about your plans for [specific detail]"

Tone: warm and professional, not salesy. No exclamation point overload. No "I would be SO honored." Keep it under 250 words.

You are a professional photographer sending a booking confirmation to a client who just signed their contract and submitted their retainer.

Booking details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Session/event type: [TYPE]
- Date: [DATE]
- Time: [TIME]
- Location: [LOCATION]
- Package booked: [PACKAGE NAME AND WHAT IT INCLUDES]
- Retainer amount received: [AMOUNT]
- Remaining balance: [AMOUNT] due by [DATE]
- Gallery delivery timeline: [TIMEFRAME — e.g., 3-4 weeks after the session]

Write a booking confirmation email that:
1. Confirms the booking with genuine enthusiasm (not over-the-top)
2. Recaps the key details (date, time, location, package)
3. States the remaining balance and when it is due
4. Outlines the next steps and timeline:
   - When they'll receive a pre-session questionnaire or planning guide
   - When to schedule a planning call (if applicable)
   - What to expect on the day of the shoot
   - Gallery delivery timeline
5. Includes 2-3 preparation tips relevant to their session type
6. Provides your contact information and preferred communication method
7. Ends with something to look forward to ("I'm already scouting golden hour spots at your venue")

Tone: confident, organized, reassuring. Under 300 words.

You are a [GENRE] photographer creating a pre-session questionnaire to send to clients [TIMEFRAME — e.g., 2 weeks] before their [SESSION TYPE].

Create a questionnaire that gathers:

1. Logistics:
   - Confirm date, time, and location
   - Parking and access details
   - Backup plan preferences if weather is a factor

2. People:
   - Who will be photographed (names and relationships)
   - Any specific groupings needed (family combinations, team groupings)
   - Anyone who is uncomfortable being photographed
   - [FOR WEDDINGS: family dynamics to be aware of — divorced parents, step-families, etc.]

3. Creative preferences:
   - Reference images they love (ask them to share 3-5 from Pinterest or Instagram)
   - Mood/style preference (light and airy, moody and dramatic, bright and colorful, classic and timeless)
   - Any specific shots they've seen and want to recreate
   - Shots they do NOT want (some people hate posed photos, some hate candids)

4. Practical details:
   - Outfit descriptions and color palette (for coordination advice)
   - Props or special items to incorporate
   - Mobility limitations or accessibility needs
   - Timing constraints (nap schedules, sunset requirements, event start times)

5. Deliverable preferences:
   - Print intentions (wall art, album, holiday cards)
   - Social media sharing preferences and tagging handles

Format as a clean, numbered questionnaire that could be pasted into a Google Form, Dubsado, or HoneyBook workflow. Keep it focused — no more than 20 questions.

You are a photographer delivering a finished gallery to a client.

Delivery details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Session/event type: [TYPE — e.g., wedding, family portraits, corporate headshots]
- Number of images delivered: [COUNT]
- Gallery platform: [PIXIESET / CLOUDSPOT / SHOOTPROOF / PIC-TIME / other]
- Gallery link: [URL]
- Gallery expiration: [DATE, if applicable]
- Download permissions: [YES/NO — and any limitations]
- Print store: [ENABLED / NOT ENABLED]
- Album design: [INCLUDED IN PACKAGE / AVAILABLE AS ADD-ON / NOT APPLICABLE]

Write a gallery delivery email that:
1. Opens with something personal about the session — reference a specific moment, not generic praise
2. Shares the gallery link prominently
3. Explains how to navigate the gallery, select favorites, and download (brief instructions specific to the platform)
4. Notes the download permissions and gallery expiration timeline
5. Mentions print and album options if applicable (soft sell, not pushy)
6. Includes social media sharing guidelines:
   - Tagging and credit preferences
   - Whether they should download or screenshot (download = better quality)
7. Asks for a review — provide a direct link to Google Business, The Knot, or your preferred platform
8. Thanks them genuinely and opens the door for future work

Tone: excited to share the work, confident in the product, warm but not gushing. Under 300 words.

You are a photographer writing a follow-up email to a past client [TIMEFRAME — e.g., 2 weeks after gallery delivery] to request a review and encourage referrals.

Client details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Session/event type: [TYPE]
- A memorable moment from their session: [SPECIFIC DETAIL — e.g., "when your daughter ran through the wildflowers" or "the look on everyone's face during your first dance"]
- Review platform link: [GOOGLE BUSINESS / THE KNOT / YELP / WEDDING WIRE URL]

Write a follow-up email that:
1. Checks in on how they're enjoying their images (opens a conversation, not just a request)
2. References the specific memorable moment to show this isn't a mass email
3. Explains why reviews matter to your business (honest, not guilt-trippy — "Reviews help other families like yours find a photographer they can trust")
4. Provides the direct review link (one click, no hunting for your listing)
5. Offers a referral incentive if you have one (print credit, session discount — or skip if you don't)
6. Mentions any upcoming availability or seasonal sessions they might want to book

Keep it under 200 words. The shorter this email, the more likely they are to actually click the review link.

You are a professional photographer preparing a custom quote for a client.

Client request details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Type of work: [EVENT / COMMERCIAL / PORTRAIT / PRODUCT — describe the specific project]
- Scope: [HOURS OF COVERAGE, NUMBER OF LOCATIONS, NUMBER OF FINAL IMAGES, etc.]
- Special requirements: [SECOND SHOOTER, SAME-DAY EDITS, EXPEDITED DELIVERY, TRAVEL, LICENSING, etc.]
- Your base rate for this type of work: [RATE]
- Additional line items: [ITEMIZE — travel fees, assistant, equipment rental, rush processing, etc.]

Create a professional quote document that includes:
1. Project summary (2-3 sentences restating what the client needs — proves you listened)
2. Scope of work (detailed — hours, locations, deliverables, timeline)
3. Itemized pricing with clear line items
4. What is included (retouching level, delivery format, usage rights)
5. What is NOT included (explicitly state to prevent assumptions)
6. Payment terms (retainer, milestones, final payment due date)
7. Cancellation and rescheduling policy (brief reference to full contract)
8. Quote expiration date (creates urgency without pressure — typically 7-14 days)
9. Next steps to accept (sign, pay retainer, schedule planning call)

Format professionally — this should look like it came from an established business, not a text message.

You are a [GENRE] photographer writing package descriptions for your website or pricing guide.

Package structure:
- Package 1 (Entry): [HOURS, DELIVERABLES, PRICE]
- Package 2 (Mid-tier): [HOURS, DELIVERABLES, PRICE]
- Package 3 (Premium): [HOURS, DELIVERABLES, PRICE]
- Add-ons available: [LIST — engagement session, album, prints, extra hours, etc.]

Write descriptions for each package that:
1. Give each package a name that reflects its value, not just "Basic/Standard/Premium"
2. Lead with the experience, not just the deliverable count ("Full day coverage from getting-ready to last dance" vs "8 hours of photography")
3. Clearly state what's included in each tier
4. Highlight what upgrades between tiers (make the mid-tier differences obvious)
5. Frame the premium tier around the experience, not just more hours/photos
6. Include a "Best for:" line for each (e.g., "Best for: intimate weddings under 50 guests" or "Best for: full-day celebrations with multiple locations")
7. List add-ons with brief descriptions and pricing
8. End with a note encouraging clients to reach out if none of the packages fit perfectly

Tone: confident, clear, no apologizing for prices. Focus on value delivered, not cost justified.

You are a photographer drafting the scope of work section for a client contract.

Project details:
- Client: [NAME / COMPANY]
- Project type: [WEDDING / COMMERCIAL / PORTRAIT / EVENT]
- Date(s): [DATE(S)]
- Location(s): [LOCATION(S)]
- Coverage hours: [START TIME] to [END TIME]
- Deliverables: [NUMBER OF EDITED IMAGES, FORMAT, RESOLUTION]
- Delivery timeline: [WEEKS AFTER SESSION]
- Usage rights: [PERSONAL USE ONLY / LIMITED COMMERCIAL / FULL COMMERCIAL — specify duration and platforms]

Draft a scope of work that clearly defines:
1. Services provided (coverage hours, what "coverage" includes — e.g., does it include setup/breakdown time?)
2. Deliverables with specifics:
   - Number of final edited images (range is acceptable — e.g., 400-500)
   - Editing level (color correction and exposure vs. advanced retouching)
   - What is NOT delivered (unedited RAW files, every frame captured, heavy compositing)
3. Delivery method and timeline
4. Revision policy (how many rounds, what constitutes a revision vs. a new edit)
5. Image usage rights and licensing (be specific about platforms, duration, and exclusivity)
6. Photographer's rights (portfolio use, social media, award submissions)
7. Client responsibilities (timeline accuracy, venue access, point-of-contact designation)
8. Force majeure and backup plan (equipment failure, illness — what happens)

Write in clear, direct language. This is a contract section, not marketing copy. Avoid legalese but be precise.

You are a photographer writing an email to a client who has requested expedited delivery of their images.

Details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Standard delivery timeline: [TIMEFRAME — e.g., 3-4 weeks]
- Client's requested timeline: [TIMEFRAME — e.g., 5 days]
- Rush fee: [AMOUNT or PERCENTAGE]
- Reason they gave for the rush (if any): [REASON — e.g., they need images for a magazine deadline]

Write an email that:
1. Acknowledges their timeline need with understanding (not annoyance)
2. Explains your standard timeline and why it exists (quality — each image gets individual attention in editing, not batch-processed)
3. Presents the rush fee clearly and without apology
4. Explains what the rush fee covers (rescheduling other editing work, extended hours, prioritized processing)
5. Offers the rush option as a choice, not an ultimatum
6. If possible, suggest a middle ground (e.g., "I could deliver a curated set of 20 images within 48 hours for the magazine, with the full gallery following on the standard timeline")

Tone: professional, solution-oriented, not defensive about the fee. Under 200 words.

You are a photographer notifying your mailing list or past clients about a pricing update.

Details:
- What's changing: [PRICE INCREASE / SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT / NEW PACKAGE STRUCTURE]
- When it takes effect: [DATE]
- Current pricing: [BRIEF SUMMARY]
- New pricing: [BRIEF SUMMARY]
- Reason: [INCREASED DEMAND / COST OF DOING BUSINESS / NEW OFFERINGS / SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT]
- Grace period or incentive: [BOOK BY X DATE AT CURRENT RATES / RETURNING CLIENT DISCOUNT / NONE]

Write an announcement that:
1. Leads with gratitude (thank clients and supporters, not as a platitude but with specificity — "After photographing 40+ weddings this past year...")
2. States the change clearly and directly — no burying the update in paragraph three
3. Provides a brief, honest reason (you're investing in better equipment, demand exceeds capacity, costs have increased — whatever is true)
4. Highlights any grandfather clause or booking incentive for acting before the change
5. Reinforces the value they receive (what makes your work worth the investment)
6. Includes a clear CTA (book now, schedule a consultation, reply to this email)

Tone: transparent, confident, appreciative. This is a business decision, not an apology. Under 250 words.

You are a photographer writing SEO-optimized copy for a portfolio page on your website.

Page details:
- Portfolio category: [WEDDINGS / PORTRAITS / COMMERCIAL / REAL ESTATE / FOOD / etc.]
- Target location(s): [CITY, STATE, REGION]
- Your specialty or style: [DESCRIBE — e.g., "documentary-style wedding photography with warm, film-inspired tones"]
- Target client: [WHO BOOKS THIS TYPE OF WORK — e.g., "couples planning outdoor weddings in the Hudson Valley"]
- Featured sessions/projects on this page: [BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF 3-5 featured works]

Write a portfolio page description (300-500 words) that:
1. Opens with a hook about the experience of this type of photography (not "Welcome to my portfolio")
2. Describes your approach and style in specific terms (reference lighting, editing style, how you direct — or don't direct — subjects)
3. Naturally incorporates location-based keywords (city, region, venue names if appropriate)
4. Includes 2-3 brief narratives from featured sessions (what made them special, without naming clients unless they've consented)
5. Ends with a call to action (booking inquiry, consultation, viewing the full gallery)
6. Incorporates primary keyword: [TARGET KEYWORD — e.g., "Hudson Valley wedding photographer"]

Write for humans first, search engines second. No keyword stuffing. No "As a passionate photographer, I believe..." opening.

You are a photographer writing a blog post about a recent [SESSION TYPE — e.g., engagement session, family portrait session, wedding].

Session details:
- Location: [VENUE OR LOCATION NAME, CITY, STATE]
- Clients: [FIRST NAMES ONLY or pseudonyms if they prefer privacy]
- Time of year and conditions: [SEASON, WEATHER, TIME OF DAY]
- Key moments or highlights: [3-5 SPECIFIC MOMENTS — e.g., "golden hour portraits on the bluff overlooking the river" or "their 3-year-old refusing to sit still, which made for the best candid of the day"]
- Your approach for this session: [WHAT YOU DID DIFFERENTLY — e.g., "started with a walk to loosen up before any posing"]
- Venue/location notes for future clients: [PARKING, PERMITS, BEST SPOTS, TIMING RECOMMENDATIONS]
- Number of images to reference: [HOW MANY WILL BE IN THE BLOG POST]

Write a blog post (500-800 words) that:
1. Opens with the story, not a generic intro ("The light was doing that thing where it turns everything amber...")
2. Describes the session narrative — how it unfolded, what moments stood out
3. Includes practical venue information that future clients searching for this location will find useful
4. Naturally incorporates SEO keywords: [VENUE NAME + photographer], [CITY + SESSION TYPE + photographer]
5. Ends with availability information and a booking CTA
6. Includes image placement notes (e.g., "[INSERT HERO IMAGE — golden hour wide shot]")

Tone: storytelling, warm, specific. Not a generic "had such a great time" recap.

You are a photographer creating a location-specific landing page for SEO.

Details:
- Your name/studio: [NAME]
- Target location: [CITY/NEIGHBORHOOD/REGION]
- Photography type: [WEDDING / PORTRAIT / COMMERCIAL / all]
- Your connection to this location: [DO YOU LIVE THERE? HAVE YOU SHOT THERE? HOW OFTEN?]
- Notable venues or locations you've shot in this area: [LIST 3-5]
- What makes this location special for photography: [LANDSCAPE, ARCHITECTURE, LIGHT, SEASONS]
- Target keyword: [e.g., "Denver wedding photographer" or "Austin family photographer"]
- Distance from your base: [IF APPLICABLE — travel considerations]

Write a location page (400-600 words) that:
1. Demonstrates genuine knowledge of the area (specific locations, light characteristics, seasonal considerations — not generic "beautiful scenery")
2. References specific venues or spots you've shot and what makes them photogenic
3. Addresses practical information (travel fees if applicable, familiarity with local vendors, permit requirements)
4. Includes the target keyword naturally 3-5 times without forcing it
5. Incorporates related long-tail keywords (e.g., "[venue name] photographer," "outdoor [city] wedding")
6. Includes a clear CTA with availability check
7. References the season or time of year when this location is most popular (for temporal relevance)

Do not write generic copy that could apply to any city. Every sentence should pass the test: "Could I swap in a different city name and have this still make sense?" If yes, rewrite it.

You are a photographer writing descriptive alt text for portfolio images on your website.

I'll provide a list of images. For each, write alt text that:
1. Describes the image content accurately and specifically
2. Uses natural language (not keyword lists)
3. Keeps length between 50-125 characters
4. Includes relevant context (location, session type, mood) when it adds value
5. Avoids starting with "Photo of" or "Image of" (screen readers already announce it's an image)

Here are the images:
1. [DESCRIBE THE IMAGE — e.g., "Bride and groom walking through a lavender field at sunset, backs to camera, holding hands"]
2. [DESCRIBE THE IMAGE]
3. [DESCRIBE THE IMAGE]
4. [DESCRIBE THE IMAGE]
5. [DESCRIBE THE IMAGE]
(continue for all images)

For each, provide:
- Alt text (50-125 characters)
- Title attribute (shorter, 3-5 words)
- Suggested file name for SEO (lowercase, hyphens, include location if relevant — e.g., "hudson-valley-wedding-lavender-field-sunset.jpg")

You are a photographer writing an optimized Google Business Profile description.

Business details:
- Business name: [NAME]
- Location: [CITY, STATE]
- Photography specialties: [LIST — e.g., weddings, portraits, commercial, headshots]
- Service area: [CITIES/REGIONS YOU SERVE]
- Years in business: [NUMBER]
- Notable achievements or differentiators: [AWARDS, PUBLICATIONS, UNIQUE APPROACH, etc.]
- Target keywords: [PRIMARY — e.g., "Austin wedding photographer" and 2-3 secondary keywords]

Write a Google Business Profile description (max 750 characters) that:
1. Opens with your primary keyword naturally
2. States what you photograph and where you're based
3. Differentiates you from competitors (your style, approach, or experience — be specific)
4. Includes your service area
5. Ends with a CTA (book a consultation, visit your website, call for availability)
6. Naturally incorporates 2-3 location-based keywords

Do NOT use hashtags, all caps, or promotional language ("BEST photographer in town!"). Google's guidelines prohibit it and it looks unprofessional.

You are a photographer writing an Instagram caption for a [SESSION TYPE] post.

Post details:
- Image description: [DESCRIBE THE PHOTO(S) — e.g., "family of four laughing on a beach at sunset, kids running toward the camera"]
- Session context: [BRIEF STORY — e.g., "This family does a session every year at the same beach. Their youngest just started walking."]
- Mood/tone of the session: [FUN AND CHAOTIC / ROMANTIC AND INTIMATE / ELEGANT AND FORMAL]
- Key moment or detail: [WHAT MAKES THIS POST SPECIAL]
- Any educational takeaway: [PHOTOGRAPHY TIP, OUTFIT ADVICE, LOCATION RECOMMENDATION — optional]
- Hashtag strategy: [PROVIDE YOUR STANDARD HASHTAG GROUPS or ask for suggestions]

Write an Instagram caption that:
1. Opens with a hook (first line visible before "...more" — make it count)
2. Tells a brief story or shares an insight (3-5 sentences max)
3. Ends with either a question (drives comments) or a CTA (drives DMs/bookings)
4. Includes a content bucket label at the bottom if applicable (e.g., "Booking info in bio" or "Currently booking fall 2026")
5. Suggests 15-20 relevant hashtags (mix of broad, niche, and location-specific)

Tone: [YOUR VOICE — e.g., "warm and conversational, a little funny, never overly formal"]. Do not use "captured" as a verb. Do not use "I had the honor of photographing." Write like a person, not a template.

You are a photographer planning an Instagram/TikTok story sequence showing behind-the-scenes footage from a [SESSION TYPE].

BTS details:
- What happened: [DESCRIBE THE SHOOT — location, subjects, conditions]
- Interesting process details: [GEAR USED, LIGHTING CHALLENGES, CREATIVE DECISIONS]
- A problem you solved: [RAIN, DIFFICULT LIGHT, SHY SUBJECT, TIGHT TIMELINE]
- Before/after element: [STRAIGHT OUT OF CAMERA vs. EDITED, or SETUP vs. FINAL SHOT]

Write a 5-7 story slide script:
Slide 1: Hook — what they're about to see and why it matters ("How I got this shot in 15 minutes of direct noon sun")
Slide 2: Context — the situation (text overlay suggestion + what to show)
Slide 3: The challenge or interesting decision point
Slide 4: Your solution or approach (this is the value — what they learn)
Slide 5: The result (before/after or final image)
Slide 6: Takeaway or tip (what followers can apply to their own work or what clients should know)
Slide 7: CTA (poll, question sticker, booking link, or "DM me for details")

For each slide, provide:
- Visual direction (what to film or show)
- Text overlay copy (short — stories are consumed fast)
- Duration suggestion (5-15 seconds per slide)

You are a photographer writing Pinterest pin descriptions to drive traffic to your website.

Pin details:
- Image being pinned: [DESCRIBE — e.g., "bride in flowing dress walking through a vineyard at sunset"]
- Destination URL: [BLOG POST / PORTFOLIO PAGE / BOOKING PAGE]
- Board: [BOARD NAME — e.g., "California Vineyard Weddings" or "Family Portrait Outfit Inspiration"]
- Target search terms on Pinterest: [WHAT SOMEONE WOULD SEARCH — e.g., "vineyard wedding photos," "California wedding photographer"]

Write a Pinterest pin description (150-300 characters for the title, 500 characters for the description) that:
1. Pin title: descriptive, keyword-rich, no clickbait (e.g., "Golden Hour Vineyard Wedding Portraits | Temecula, CA")
2. Pin description: naturally incorporates target search terms, describes the image content, and includes a CTA to visit the linked page
3. Includes relevant secondary keywords (season, color palette, style, venue type)
4. Reads naturally — not a keyword list masquerading as a sentence

Also suggest 2-3 board titles this pin should be added to for maximum reach.

You are a photographer creating a short-form video script (30-60 seconds) for Instagram Reels or TikTok.

Topic: [PHOTOGRAPHY TIP — e.g., "How to pose couples who feel awkward in front of the camera" or "Why I always shoot 20 minutes before sunset, not during it"]

Target audience: [POTENTIAL CLIENTS who want better photos / OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS / BOTH]

Write a script that:
1. Hook (0-3 seconds): text on screen + opening line that stops the scroll. Must create curiosity or challenge an assumption.
2. Setup (3-10 seconds): state the problem or common mistake
3. Value (10-40 seconds): deliver the tip with specific, actionable detail. If demonstrating a technique, include visual direction (what to show on screen).
4. Proof (40-50 seconds): show the result or before/after
5. CTA (50-60 seconds): follow for more, link in bio, comment with their question

Include:
- On-screen text overlay suggestions for each section
- Background music mood recommendation
- Trending audio suggestion if relevant to the topic
- 3-5 hashtags optimized for Reels/TikTok discovery

Keep the language conversational — you're talking to your phone, not presenting at a conference.

You are a photographer creating a social media post that highlights a client testimonial.

Details:
- Client first name: [NAME]
- Session type: [TYPE]
- The testimonial: "[PASTE THE ACTUAL TESTIMONIAL TEXT]"
- Your relationship with this client: [FIRST-TIME CLIENT / RETURNING CLIENT / REFERRAL]
- A standout moment from their session: [SOMETHING SPECIFIC]
- Image to accompany: [DESCRIBE — e.g., the hero image from their session]

Write a social media post that:
1. Doesn't just paste the testimonial — frames it with brief context
2. Shares a sentence about the session from your perspective (what you remember, what made it special)
3. Presents the testimonial (use quotation marks or a clear visual separator)
4. Connects it to what future clients can expect (without being salesy)
5. Tags the client (with their permission) and thanks them
6. Includes a soft CTA ("Fall sessions are filling up — link in bio to check dates")

Format for [PLATFORM — Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or all]. Adjust tone and length for each platform if creating multiple versions.

You are a photographer writing descriptions for a Lightroom preset collection.

Preset collection details:
- Collection name: [NAME]
- Number of presets: [COUNT]
- For each preset, provide:
  - Preset name: [NAME]
  - What it does technically: [e.g., "lifts blacks, adds warm split-toning to highlights, desaturates greens, adds slight grain"]
  - Best used for: [LIGHTING CONDITION / SUBJECT TYPE — e.g., "golden hour outdoor portraits"]
  - Not ideal for: [WHAT IT DOESN'T WORK WELL ON — e.g., "indoor tungsten lighting, heavy shadows"]

For each preset, write:
1. One-line summary (what it does in plain language — "Turns harsh midday light into something that looks like it was shot during golden hour")
2. Technical description (what adjustments it makes — exposure, tone curve, HSL, split toning, grain)
3. Best-for scenario (when to reach for this preset)
4. Adjustment tips (what users will typically need to tweak — exposure, white balance, specific HSL channels)
5. Pairing suggestions (works well with [X] preset as a starting point for further adjustment)

Tone: practical, not hyperbolic. "Film-inspired warm tones with lifted shadows" is useful. "STUNNING CINEMATIC VIBES" is not.

You are a photographer documenting your editing style guide for internal use or to share with an editing assistant/outsourced editor.

Your editing style:
- Overall aesthetic: [DESCRIBE — e.g., "warm, slightly desaturated, lifted blacks, natural skin tones"]
- Color palette tendencies: [WARM / COOL / NEUTRAL — any specific color shifts]
- Skin tone approach: [PRIORITIZE NATURAL SKIN TONES / STYLIZED / warm bias / cool bias]
- Black and white approach: [FREQUENCY, STYLE — e.g., "10% of gallery delivered in B&W, high contrast, deep blacks"]
- Culling ratio: [APPROXIMATE — e.g., "deliver 50-80 images per hour of coverage"]

Create a comprehensive editing style guide that includes:
1. General editing philosophy (2-3 sentences on what your editing should feel like)
2. Global adjustments baseline:
   - Exposure and white balance tendencies
   - Tone curve description (linear, S-curve, lifted blacks, crushed highlights)
   - HSL adjustments (specific colors you typically shift — e.g., greens toward teal, oranges toward warm)
   - Split toning approach
   - Sharpening and noise reduction defaults
   - Grain (yes/no, amount, size, roughness)
3. Skin tone correction guidelines:
   - Red channel handling
   - Orange and yellow adjustments for different skin tones
   - When to use the brush vs. global adjustments
4. Scenario-specific adjustments:
   - Outdoor golden hour
   - Indoor mixed lighting
   - Flash photography
   - Overcast/flat light
5. What to avoid (over-saturation, orange skin, blue-tinted shadows, heavy vignetting — list your specific no-go's)
6. Reference images: [DESCRIBE 3-5 reference images that exemplify your style — suggest naming them for the document]

This document should be detailed enough that an editor who has never met you can match your style within 90% accuracy.

You are a photographer designing a file naming and folder organization system.

Current situation:
- Volume: approximately [NUMBER] sessions per [YEAR/MONTH]
- Types of work: [LIST — weddings, portraits, commercial, etc.]
- Storage: [LOCAL DRIVES / CLOUD / NAS / COMBINATION]
- Editing software: [LIGHTROOM / CAPTURE ONE / BOTH]
- Archive needs: [HOW LONG YOU KEEP FILES — indefinitely, 2 years, etc.]
- Team: [SOLO / TEAM OF X — who needs to access files?]

Create a comprehensive naming and organization system:
1. Folder structure (top-level down to individual images):
   - Year → Session type → Date_ClientName format
   - Subfolder structure within each session (RAW, Selects, Edited, Delivered, BTS)
2. File naming convention:
   - Format: [RECOMMENDATION — e.g., YYYYMMDD_ClientLastName_SequenceNumber]
   - How to handle multiple shooters
   - How to handle multiple cameras
3. Catalog organization (Lightroom/Capture One):
   - One master catalog vs. yearly catalogs (recommendation based on volume)
   - Collection structure
   - Keywording taxonomy
4. Backup naming (distinguish between working files and archived finals)
5. Delivery naming (what the client receives — typically simplified)
6. Migration plan (how to transition from current naming to the new system without breaking existing references)

The system should scale for 10 years without becoming unwieldy.

You are a photographer documenting your complete post-shoot workflow for efficiency analysis and team reference.

Current tools:
- Shooting: [CAMERA SYSTEM, CARD MANAGEMENT]
- Culling: [PHOTO MECHANIC / LIGHTROOM / AFTERSHOOT / other]
- Editing: [LIGHTROOM / CAPTURE ONE / PHOTOSHOP]
- Gallery delivery: [PIXIESET / SHOOTPROOF / PIC-TIME / CLOUDSPOT]
- CRM/business: [HONEYBOOK / DUBSADO / STUDIO NINJA / SPROUT STUDIO / other]
- Accounting: [QUICKBOOKS / WAVE / FRESHBOOKS / other]
- Cloud storage/backup: [GOOGLE DRIVE / BACKBLAZE / DROPBOX / other]

Document the complete workflow from memory card to gallery delivery:
1. Import and backup (step-by-step: card reader → primary drive → backup drive → cloud)
2. Culling process (how you select keepers — star ratings, color labels, criteria)
3. Editing workflow (preset application → individual adjustments → batch sync → quality check)
4. Export settings (resolution, format, color space, sharpening for web vs. print)
5. Gallery creation and delivery (upload, layout, pricing integration, client communication)
6. Archival process (what gets kept, what gets deleted, backup verification)
7. Time tracking per phase (how long each step takes for a typical [SESSION TYPE])
8. Automation opportunities (flag any manual steps that could be automated with current tools)

For each step, note:
- The tool used
- Approximate time per session
- Pain points or bottlenecks
- Whether it could be delegated to an assistant

You are a lead photographer creating a briefing document for a second shooter.

Event details:
- Event type: [WEDDING / EVENT / COMMERCIAL]
- Date: [DATE]
- Timeline: [KEY TIMES AND LOCATIONS]
- Client(s): [NAMES AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION]

Create a second shooter brief covering:
1. Your shooting style and expectations:
   - Editing style (so they can expose and white-balance consistently)
   - Composition preferences (tight vs. wide, centered vs. rule-of-thirds)
   - What you value (candid moments, detail shots, guest reactions)
   - What you don't want (heavy flash when you're shooting ambient, shooting from the same angle as you)
2. Role division:
   - What you will cover vs. what they should focus on
   - Key moments where you need them in a specific position
   - "Must-get" shots that are their responsibility
3. Technical specifications:
   - Camera settings to match your exposure (shooting mode, metering, white balance approach)
   - Memory card protocol (how to label and hand off cards)
   - File format (RAW only, RAW+JPEG, specific settings)
4. Communication plan:
   - How you'll communicate during the event (hand signals, radio, text)
   - When to check in (before ceremony, during cocktail hour, etc.)
5. Logistics:
   - Arrival time, parking, dress code
   - Meal plan and break rotation
   - Payment terms and timeline
6. Post-event:
   - Card/file delivery method and deadline
   - Credit/tagging policy
   - Usage rights (can they use images in their portfolio?)

You are a photographer writing a monthly email newsletter.

Newsletter details:
- Month/season: [MONTH AND YEAR]
- Audience: [PAST CLIENTS, PROSPECTIVE CLIENTS, FELLOW PHOTOGRAPHERS, or mix]
- Recent work highlight: [DESCRIBE A SESSION OR PROJECT TO FEATURE]
- Upcoming availability: [DATES OR SEASONS YOU'RE BOOKING]
- Seasonal relevance: [UPCOMING HOLIDAYS, MINI SESSION CAMPAIGNS, BUSY SEASON PREP]
- Educational content idea: [A TIP OR INSIGHT — e.g., "What to wear for fall portraits" or "3 questions to ask before booking a photographer"]
- Promotion or offer: [IF ANY — mini session announcement, referral bonus, print sale]

Write a newsletter (300-500 words) structured as:
1. Personal opening (a genuine thought, observation, or story from the past month — not "Happy [month]!")
2. Featured work section (brief narrative about the session, 2-3 images referenced)
3. Educational content or seasonal tip (value for the reader, not just content about you)
4. Availability update or promotion (clear, brief, with CTA)
5. Closing with personality (sign-off that sounds like you, not a corporate template)

Include subject line suggestions (3 options — aim for curiosity or specificity, not "Monthly Newsletter"):
- Option 1: [curiosity-driven]
- Option 2: [benefit-driven]
- Option 3: [personal/story-driven]

You are a photographer writing promotional copy for a mini session campaign.

Campaign details:
- Session type: [HOLIDAY MINIS / SPRING / BACK-TO-SCHOOL / VALENTINE'S / MILESTONE / etc.]
- Date(s): [SPECIFIC DATES]
- Location: [WHERE — describe the setting]
- Session length: [DURATION — typically 15-20 minutes]
- What's included: [NUMBER OF IMAGES, DIGITAL FILES, PRINT CREDITS, etc.]
- Price: [AMOUNT]
- Spots available: [NUMBER — for urgency]
- Booking method: [HOW TO BOOK — link, DM, email]

Write copy for:
1. **Instagram/Facebook announcement post** (150-200 words):
   - Describe the experience, not just the logistics
   - Paint a picture of the setting (the light, the backdrop, the feel)
   - Clear pricing and what's included
   - Urgency element (limited spots, specific dates)
   - Booking CTA

2. **Email to existing clients** (200-300 words):
   - Personal tone — they know you
   - Early access or returning client perk if applicable
   - Booking link

3. **Website landing page copy** (300-400 words):
   - SEO-aware (include location + session type keywords)
   - FAQ section (What should we wear? Can we bring our dog? What if it rains?)
   - Clear booking process

Tone: excited but not desperate. These should feel like an opportunity, not a clearance sale.

You are a photographer writing copy for a client referral program.

Program details:
- Referral reward for existing client: [PRINT CREDIT / SESSION DISCOUNT / FREE PRINTS / GIFT CARD — amount]
- Reward for the referred client: [DISCOUNT / BONUS IMAGES / FREE ADD-ON]
- How referrals are tracked: [CODE / MENTION BY NAME / FORM]
- Any limitations: [EXPIRATION, MAXIMUM REWARDS, ELIGIBLE SERVICES]

Write:
1. Program overview page for your website (200-300 words):
   - Explain the program clearly and enthusiastically
   - Make both the reward and the process simple to understand
   - Include a CTA to share with friends

2. Email to send past clients introducing the program (150-200 words):
   - Thank them for their trust
   - Present the program as a win-win
   - Make sharing easy (provide a link or code they can forward)

3. Social media post announcing the program (100-150 words):
   - Brief, clear, shareable
   - Include the reward prominently
   - Simple instructions

Do not make the program feel transactional. Frame it as: "You loved your experience, someone you know would too, and we want to thank you for making that connection."

You are a photographer writing a styled shoot concept proposal to send to potential vendor collaborators (florists, planners, venues, stylists, etc.).

Concept details:
- Theme/concept: [DESCRIBE — e.g., "Modern Mediterranean elopement on a cliffside terrace"]
- Inspiration: [MOOD, COLOR PALETTE, REFERENCES — e.g., "terracotta and olive, organic textures, warm golden light"]
- Target publication or blog: [IF SUBMITTING — e.g., "Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes, or portfolio use"]
- Location: [VENUE OR SETTING]
- Date: [PROPOSED DATE OR DATE RANGE]
- Vendors needed: [LIST ROLES — florist, planner, dress designer, HMUA, stationer, model, etc.]
- What you're contributing: [YOUR SERVICES — photography, concept, planning, etc.]
- What you need from vendors: [THEIR SERVICES/PRODUCTS IN EXCHANGE FOR IMAGES]

Write a styled shoot proposal that:
1. Opens with the creative vision — make collaborators see it and want to be part of it
2. Describes the concept in detail (setting, mood, color palette, styling direction)
3. Explains the mutual benefit (images for everyone's portfolio, potential publication, social media content)
4. Lists specific vendor roles and what each would contribute
5. Provides logistical details (date, location, timeline, model arrangements)
6. Addresses image delivery and usage (timeline for edited images, tagging expectations, publication credit)
7. Ends with a clear next step (reply to confirm interest, schedule a planning call)

Tone: collaborative and professional. You're proposing a creative partnership, not asking for free stuff.

You are a photographer writing a description for a [WORKSHOP / MENTORING SESSION / ONLINE COURSE / IN-PERSON CLASS].

Offering details:
- Title: [NAME]
- Format: [IN-PERSON WORKSHOP / VIRTUAL / 1-ON-1 MENTORING / GROUP — duration and schedule]
- Target audience: [BEGINNER PHOTOGRAPHERS / INTERMEDIATE WANTING TO GO PRO / ESTABLISHED PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTING TO REFINE]
- Topics covered: [LIST 5-8 SPECIFIC TOPICS — e.g., "off-camera flash in natural environments," "client pricing psychology," "posing flow for couples"]
- Location: [IF IN-PERSON — venue and city]
- Price: [AMOUNT]
- What's included: [MATERIALS, LIVE DEMO, HANDS-ON PRACTICE, FOLLOW-UP SUPPORT, etc.]
- Class size: [MAXIMUM PARTICIPANTS]

Write:
1. **Headline and subheadline** that communicate the transformation, not just the topic
2. **Course description** (300-500 words):
   - Open with the problem this offering solves (what attendees struggle with now)
   - Describe what they'll learn (specific, not vague — "master off-camera flash in three natural-light-dominant scenarios" not "learn about lighting")
   - Include your credibility briefly (years of experience, notable clients, previous teaching)
   - Detail the format and what a typical session looks like
   - List what's included
3. **Who this is for / Who this is NOT for** (sets expectations and qualifies leads)
4. **Testimonials section placeholder** with prompts for what to ask past attendees
5. **FAQ section** (5-6 common questions)
6. **CTA** with urgency (limited spots, early-bird pricing, registration deadline)

You are a photography business consultant helping a photographer conduct their year-end business review.

Business data (fill in what you have):
- Total revenue: [AMOUNT]
- Revenue by category: [WEDDINGS: $X, PORTRAITS: $X, COMMERCIAL: $X, etc.]
- Number of sessions/events by type: [COUNTS]
- Average booking value by type: [AMOUNTS]
- Expenses: [TOTAL AND KEY CATEGORIES — gear, software, insurance, marketing, education, travel]
- Marketing channels that generated leads: [WHERE BOOKINGS CAME FROM — referrals, Instagram, Google, The Knot, etc.]
- Inquiry-to-booking conversion rate: [IF KNOWN — or estimate]
- Busiest months: [LIST]
- Goals from last year: [WHAT YOU SET OUT TO DO]

Create a year-end business review that includes:
1. Revenue analysis (total, by category, trends vs. prior year if data available)
2. Profitability assessment (revenue - expenses, profit margin, cost per session)
3. Client acquisition analysis (which channels drive the most valuable clients, not just the most inquiries)
4. Capacity analysis (are you at sustainable capacity, overbooked, or underbooked?)
5. Pricing assessment (is your average booking value where it should be for your market and experience level?)
6. Goal review (what you achieved vs. what you planned)
7. Recommendations for next year:
   - Pricing adjustments
   - Marketing channel focus
   - Service offerings to add, modify, or retire
   - Operational improvements
   - Education/skill development priorities
8. Goal-setting framework for the coming year (specific, measurable, with quarterly checkpoints)

You are a photographer evaluating a potential equipment purchase.

Purchase details:
- Equipment: [ITEM — e.g., "Sony A7RV body," "Profoto B10 Plus kit," "DJI Mavic 3 Pro"]
- Cost: [AMOUNT]
- Current equipment being replaced or supplemented: [WHAT YOU HAVE NOW]
- Why you're considering it: [SPECIFIC NEED — e.g., "current camera struggles in low-light reception venues," "clients are requesting aerial shots"]

Create an equipment investment analysis:
1. Business case (how this equipment directly enables revenue — new services, faster workflow, higher quality deliverables)
2. Cost analysis:
   - Purchase price
   - Accessories and ancillary costs (lenses, batteries, cases, insurance rider)
   - Revenue needed to break even (at your average session rate)
   - Number of sessions to ROI
3. Alternative options (rent instead of buy, lower-cost alternatives, used market)
4. Tax implications (Section 179 deduction eligibility, depreciation schedule)
5. Risk assessment (technology obsolescence timeline, learning curve, insurance coverage)
6. Decision recommendation with justification

Be honest — not every gear purchase is justified. If the analysis shows the investment doesn't make business sense, say so.

You are a photographer writing a job posting for a [ROLE — e.g., studio assistant, second shooter, editing assistant, marketing coordinator, studio manager].

Role details:
- Position type: [PART-TIME / FULL-TIME / CONTRACT / PER-EVENT]
- Location: [IN-STUDIO / ON-LOCATION / REMOTE / HYBRID]
- Compensation: [HOURLY RATE / PER-EVENT FEE / SALARY RANGE]
- Hours: [EXPECTED WEEKLY HOURS AND SCHEDULE — include weekend/evening requirements]
- Your business: [BRIEF DESCRIPTION — genre, volume, team size]

Write a job posting that includes:
1. Opening hook (what makes this role and your business worth working for — not just a list of demands)
2. Role overview (what they'll actually do day-to-day, not corporate job description language)
3. Responsibilities (specific to photography business operations):
   - [LIST THE ACTUAL TASKS — e.g., "manage client inquiries in HoneyBook," "cull 2,000+ images per wedding to 600 selects," "assist with lighting setup on commercial shoots"]
4. Requirements:
   - Must-haves (non-negotiable skills and experience)
   - Nice-to-haves (additional skills that would be a bonus)
5. What you offer (beyond pay — mentorship, portfolio building, flexible schedule, creative environment)
6. How to apply (specific instructions — portfolio link, availability, relevant experience)
7. Red flags to screen for (include a specific instruction in the posting to filter out people who don't read — e.g., "Include the word 'aperture' in your subject line")

You are a photographer creating a client offboarding checklist and workflow.

Business details:
- Types of clients: [WEDDING / PORTRAIT / COMMERCIAL — list all]
- Gallery platform: [NAME]
- CRM system: [NAME]
- Archive policy: [HOW LONG YOU KEEP RAW FILES, EDITED FILES, CLIENT RECORDS]
- Print/album fulfillment: [DO YOU OFFER POST-DELIVERY PRODUCTS?]

Create a comprehensive offboarding checklist covering:
1. Gallery delivery:
   - [ ] Final gallery uploaded and reviewed for quality
   - [ ] Client notified with delivery email
   - [ ] Download permissions configured correctly
   - [ ] Print store enabled (if applicable)

2. Financial close-out:
   - [ ] Final balance collected
   - [ ] Album/print orders processed and delivered
   - [ ] Invoice marked as complete in accounting system
   - [ ] Sales tax recorded (if applicable)

3. Follow-up sequence:
   - [ ] Review request sent ([TIMEFRAME] after delivery)
   - [ ] Referral program information shared
   - [ ] Social media sharing guidelines sent
   - [ ] Thank-you card or gift sent (if part of your client experience)

4. Archive and organization:
   - [ ] RAW files backed up to archive location
   - [ ] Working files cleaned up
   - [ ] Client folder organized per naming convention
   - [ ] CRM status updated to "Completed"
   - [ ] Calendar holds removed

5. Marketing:
   - [ ] Blog post written (if planned)
   - [ ] Social media content queued from session
   - [ ] Portfolio updated (if best-of-portfolio quality)
   - [ ] Case study documented (for commercial clients)

6. Future touchpoints:
   - [ ] Anniversary reminder set (for wedding clients)
   - [ ] Annual session reminder set (for portrait clients)
   - [ ] Added to newsletter list (with consent)

Include a timeline — when each task should happen relative to the session date.

You are an organized photography business owner preparing your financial records for tax filing.

Business details:
- Business structure: [SOLE PROPRIETOR / LLC / S-CORP]
- Accounting method: [CASH / ACCRUAL]
- Accounting software: [QUICKBOOKS / WAVE / SPREADSHEET / FRESHBOOKS / other]
- Tax year: [YEAR]
- State: [STATE — for state-specific deductions and sales tax]

Create a tax preparation organization checklist and document structure:

1. Income documentation:
   - [ ] All invoices reconciled with bank deposits
   - [ ] Payment platform reports downloaded (PayPal, Stripe, Venmo, Square)
   - [ ] Cash/check payments recorded
   - [ ] Income categorized by type (services, print sales, digital product sales, workshop fees)

2. Expense categories specific to photographers (organize by Schedule C line):
   - Equipment purchases and depreciation (cameras, lenses, lighting, computers)
   - Software subscriptions (Lightroom, editing tools, CRM, gallery platforms, accounting)
   - Insurance (equipment, liability, E&O)
   - Marketing and advertising (website hosting, social media ads, print materials, SEO)
   - Travel (mileage log, flights, hotels — separate by business vs. personal)
   - Education (workshops, courses, conferences, books)
   - Subcontractors (second shooters, editors, assistants — 1099 requirements)
   - Office/studio expenses (rent, utilities, internet)
   - Professional services (accountant, lawyer, business coaching)
   - Props, backdrops, and styling supplies
   - Client gifts and relationship building (within IRS limits)

3. Documentation checklist:
   - [ ] Mileage log complete (or estimate method documented)
   - [ ] Home office measurements recorded (if applicable)
   - [ ] 1099s issued to contractors paid $600+
   - [ ] 1099s received from clients who paid you $600+
   - [ ] Sales tax collected and remitted (if applicable in your state)
   - [ ] Equipment log with purchase dates and costs (for depreciation)
   - [ ] Health insurance premiums documented (self-employed deduction)
   - [ ] Retirement contributions documented (SEP-IRA, Solo 401k)

4. Estimated tax payment review:
   - [ ] Quarterly payments made and documented
   - [ ] Assessment of whether payments were sufficient (avoid underpayment penalty)

Format this as a printable checklist that can be shared with an accountant. Include a note about records retention requirements (typically 3-7 years depending on the document type).