Photo Session vs Photoshoot: What’s The Difference?
Are you confused about the differences between a photo session vs photoshoot?
Well… No worries, you’re not alone!
As someone who loves photography, it’s normal to wonder what exactly sets the two apart.
Understanding the difference between the two of them can help you decide how to best use each term—and which might be right for your next project.
So, inside this post, I’ll go over everything you need to know so you can make an informed decision about which word(s) to use and in what context!
Let’s Talk About What a Photoshoot Really Is
It’s simply a photography session where amazing shots are captured.
And guess what?
The words “photo shoot” and “photoshoot” mean the exact same thing.
Yep, you read that right!
Now, when it comes to spelling, the most common version of this compound word is “photo shoot.”
But don’t be surprised if you come across variations like “shoot,” “photo session,” or even “photo shooting” – some professionals like to mix it up!
And finally, the big question: “photo session” or “photoshoot”?
The truth is you can choose whichever one tickles your fancy. They have the same meaning as well.
The pros – they tend to stick with “photo shoot.”
So there you have it.
Hopefully, this clears up the photo session vs photo shoot vs photoshoot confusion out there and I gave you all the details. Just remember not to hyphenate it as ‘photo-shoot’.
If you understand the difference, you can save yourself some time and stop reading here.
But if you still want a more detailed explanation, keep reading!
What Does “Photo” Mean?
Photos are typically created by exposing a photosensitive surface, such as film or a digital sensor, to light, which results in the formation of an image.
Photos serve as a means of capturing memories, conveying stories, documenting events, and sharing experiences. They can hold significant emotional, historical, or artistic value, making them a fundamental medium for visual communication and expression.
What Does “Shoot” Mean?
In photography, the word “shoot” can mean to take a photograph or a series of photographs.
It can also refer to the process of taking photographs, such as setting up the camera, composing the shot, and adjusting the settings.
For Example:
A photographer might say “I’m going to shoot a portrait of my friend” or “We’re going to do a fashion shoot for a magazine.”
The word “shoot” can also refer to a specific location where photographs are taken, such as a studio or a location shoot. For example, a photographer might say “I’m going to shoot at my studio” or “We’re going to shoot on location at the beach.”
Ultimately, the meaning of the word “shoot” in photography will vary depending on the context in which it is used.
Other Related Shoot Terms In Photography:
Photoshoot: A photoshoot is a planned event where photographs are taken. It can be for a variety of purposes, such as fashion, advertising, or personal documentation.
Shooting Ratio: The shooting ratio is the number of photographs taken compared to the number of photographs that are used. This can vary depending on the photographer and the purpose of the photoshoot.
Shoot List: A shoot list is a list of the photographs that need to be taken for a photoshoot. This can help the photographer stay organized and ensure that all of the necessary shots are taken.
Shoot Day: The shoot day is the day when the photographs are actually taken. This is when the photographer will set up their equipment, pose the subjects, and take the photographs.
What Is A Photo Shoot For?
A “photo shoot” is a planned and organized photography event where people, different scenes, or products are captured in a picture for various uses such as magazines, advertisements, business, or personal collections.
For example, weddings, products, events, headshots, and graduation ceremonies.
Photoshoots are often used to create polished and visually striking images. (I bet you didn’t even notice how I used both photo shoot and photoshoot already!)
Once taken, images are then edited to align with the client or photographer’s vision.
Here’s What You Might Encounter In a Typical Photoshoot:
An appointed photographer or team of photographers
Subjects of the photoshoot could range from celebrities or models to everyday people
It might take place indoors in a studio or outdoors, depending on the requirements
There may be stylists, makeup artists, and creative directors to enhance the look and feel
The photos are used for commercial use, to capture major life events, or special occasions
Lots of instruction, help, and guidance from your professional photographer
So the next time you hear “I’ve got a photoshoot,” picture all the above.
What’s The Difference Between a Photo Shoot and a Photoshoot?
Photo and shooting are two words that refer to photography and capturing images. They’re commonly used to describe a collection of pictures.
While the two-word version, “photo shoot,” is more widespread (and will be the auto correction when typing), it’s not incorrect to write it as a single word, “photoshoot.”
Regardless of the spelling, both versions have the same meaning in all variants of English.
A photo shoot or photoshoot is an event where a professional photographer takes pictures of people, models, objects, or other subjects.
Either indoors or outdoors.
When to Use Photoshoot or Photo Shoot
Wondering when to use ‘photoshoot’ vs ‘photo shoot’? Generally, ‘photo shoot’ is preferred in formal writing, while ‘photoshoot’ is often used casually.
For example, if you’re writing an advertising document about a photo session with a famous model, then ‘photo shoot’ would be the ideal choice.
On the other hand, if you’re writing a blog post about an upcoming photoshoot for your business’s new website, then ‘photoshoot’ works just as well.
Examples of Photoshoot and Photo Shoot:
Photo Shoot: “She has a professional photo shoot today for her new project.”
Photoshoot: “Let’s have an impromptu photoshoot in the park today.”
Remember These Key Differences:
‘Photo Shoot’ is used more in professional, academic, and formal writing.
‘Photoshoot’ is used for informal writing and casual communications.
Now, you can confidently use ‘Photoshoot’ and ‘Photo Shoot’ contextually right.
Photoshoot, Photo Shoot, and Photo Session are Compound Words
When you’re snapping shots with a pro, you’d be in a ‘photo shoot’.
This two-word spelling is more commonly accepted, and it refers to a photography session. For example, “The band hired a photographer for their album cover photo shoot.”
‘Photoshoot’ is also correct, though less common. It’s a compound word, merging ‘photo’ and ‘shoot’ into one term.
For instance, “I had a great time at the magazine photoshoot yesterday.”
And finally, ‘photo session’ — This is another way to describe a professional photography engagement, but it’s often seen as less formal.
An example might be, “The family planned a casual photo session at the park for their holiday card.”
Are Photoshoot and Photo Shoot Spelled Differently?
Both spellings, “photo shoot” and “photoshoot,” are correct. However, “photo shoot” is more commonly used. There’s no need for a hyphen since “photoshoot” is a compound word.
A photoshoot can also be referred to as a photo session, a shoot, or photoshooting. These terms can be used interchangeably, although some consider a photo shoot or session to be less formal.
Also, some people believe that spelling it as one word is a mistake.
But, this is not the case.
Examples of Photo Session vs Photoshoot vs Photo Shoots:
The photographer can easily book up to five photo sessions in a day.
Mom booked a photo session for your birthdays.
Her photoshoot included winter and spring collections in multiple locations for the New York Times.
If the weather is good, we will have photo shoots tomorrow evening.
Usage in American English vs. British English:
In both American and British English, the term ‘photo session‘ is often used interchangeably with “photoshoot.”
A “photo session” typically refers to a time set aside for taking a series of photos, much like a “photoshoot.” In usage, however, “photoshoot” is sometimes combined into one word especially in digital contexts, whereas “photo session” always remains two separate words.
For example, if you’re scheduling a time for some branded imagery, you might say, “Let’s book a photoshoot.” But if you’re more traditional, you might say, “Let’s schedule a photo session.”
Both terms are understood regardless of where you are.
The Takeaway:
The two words can be used interchangeably as long as you and others understand what’s being communicated. Regardless of whether that’s a photo session, photo shoot, or even a photoshoot.
And as a professional photographer, I’ve used and will continue to use all three.
Both “photo session” “photoshoot” and “photo shoot” have the same meaning, the spelling is the only thing that’s different.
The two-word version “photo shoot” is more widely used because some people believe it’s the only correct way of spelling it.
And even though “photo shoot” is currently being used more, “photoshoot” is starting to become more and more popular.
If you’re a photographer, don’t worry or spend too much time on this. Because in most situations you’ll be okay. And if you’re going to be taking pictures really soon and were curious, just bring your best look, smile, and show up.
