How to Prepare Your Car for a Photoshoot (and What NOT to Do)
There’s nothing better for an automotive photographer than when a car arrives ✨gleaming✨—wheels shining, paint flawless, glass spotless, and the interior ready for its close-up. That’s when car photography becomes pure magic, and I can focus on capturing your vehicle’s personality instead of hiding smudges in post. Those are the shoots where everything just clicks. 📸
1925 Ford Model-T
You’ve booked your car photoshoot—nice! 🚗💨 Whether it’s your classic muscle car, daily driver, or a new performance build, the real fun begins now: making sure your pride and joy looks its absolute best for professional car photos. A little preparation means you’ll end up with images that are perfect for print.
A little prep can be the difference between “pretty good” and magazine-worthy. Here’s exactly what to do (and what not to do) so your photos turn heads for all the right reasons.
✅ How to Prepare Your Car for a Photoshoot
1. Give It a Full Wash (Inside and Out)
Think of your photoshoot like a first date—you want to show up looking sharp. Wash off dust, water spots, and grime. Don’t forget mirrors, wheels, and glass (smudgy windows can ruin a perfect shot).🫧
Bonus tip: Clean the interior too. Some angles will show your dash, seats, or even the trunk.
2. Check Tire Shine and Finishing Products
Tire shine is great… until it splatters onto your paint mid-drive. Apply sparingly and wipe off excess. Same for wax—buff it properly so you don’t get harsh reflections that make your paint look patchy in photos.🛞
3. Bring Touch-Up Supplies
A microfiber cloth, glass cleaner, and a quick detail spray are your best friends—especially if we’re changing locations or driving dusty roads.
4. Know Your Angles (and Preferences)
Want to show off your engine bay? Interior? Aggressive front ¾ shot? If you’ve seen poses you like, send your photographer (👋 that’s me) some inspo pics. We’ll make sure we capture your vision.
5. Arrive on Time (and with Fuel)
Golden hour—the magical time right before sunset—doesn’t wait. Showing up late or with an empty tank ⛽ can cut into our best light and limit how many spots we can hit.
❌ What NOT to Do Before a Car Photoshoot
1. Don’t Leave Stickers, Tags, or Clutter in View 🗑️
That expired parking pass, old oil change sticker, or Tim Hortons cup in the cupholder? They will show up in photos. And no, it’s not as easy to Photoshop out as you think.
2. Don’t Wax Right Before the Shoot
Fresh wax might look slick in person, but in photos it can reflect light like a mirror—causing strange color spots or blotches. Wax at least a few days in advance for best results. 🧽
3. Don’t Skip the Wheels
Close-ups of dirty wheels or dusty brake rotors will distract from your build. A quick scrub makes a huge difference.
4. Don’t Be Late to a Sunset Shoot
A 20-minute delay at golden hour = a rushed, darker shoot. Arrive early so we can relax and get the best possible light. 🌅
📸 Ready for Your Best Car Photos Ever?
Your car is more than just a ride—it’s your story on wheels.
Let’s make it shine (literally).
Book your photo session today or send to a friend who’s due for some professional shots of their pride and joy.
