Behind the Scenes of a Content Creation Day
Behind the Scenes of a Content Creation Day
What really goes into capturing scroll-stopping content for Bristol brands?
Whether you're running your own business or hiring a social media manager, "content creation" can sound vague - like it just means snapping a few pics and uploading them with a witty caption. But for small businesses that want to stand out online, content creation is a thoughtful, intentional process.
So what does a full content creation day actually look like? I’m pulling back the curtain and walking you through what happens from planning to post-production. Spoiler: there’s more coffee, creativity, and camera gear than you might expect!
Step 1: Pre-Production Planning
(1–2 weeks before shoot day)
Every great content shoot starts long before the camera comes out. I work with clients, often Bristol-based creatives, retailers, or wellness businesses to define clear goals. Are we refreshing your Instagram grid? Capturing lifestyle shots for your website? Promoting a new product or launch?
Once the goals are clear, we move into moodboarding. I’ll pull together inspiration, brand colours, visual references, and shot ideas into a collaborative doc or Pinterest board. This helps us align on look and feel - whether you want clean and minimal, bold and punchy, or something soft and editorial.
Then comes the shot list: a super specific breakdown of what we need to capture on the day. This might include:
Product flatlays
Team headshots
Behind-the-scenes action shots
Video clips for Reels or TikTok
Location or venue content
Props and styling notes
Planning is the secret sauce. It ensures we don’t waste time on the day and that you walk away with a versatile library of content.
Step 2: The Shoot Day
(4–6 hours on location)
Now for the fun part, shooting! A typical content creation day in Bristol might take place in your studio, shop, home office, or even out and about if you’re a service provider or creative. We always start with a quick walk-through of the space and natural light, and I’ll finalise where we’ll shoot each scene.
Here’s what happens during the day:
1. Setup & Styling
Whether it's arranging a product shelf, laying out packaging, or tidying a desk setup, we want everything to look its best. I bring styling props and backgrounds if needed - think linen backdrops, vases, foliage, neutral surfaces, and more.
2. Photography
We start with stills: products, details, team moments, flatlays, and lifestyle scenes. I shoot a mix of portrait and landscape orientations to suit different platforms.
3. Video Content
I capture short-form video alongside photos, like 5–10 second clips of products being packed, coffee being poured, pilates class, food being plated up, candles being lit, or someone working at their laptop. These are gold for Reels, Stories, and TikTok.
4. BTS + Personality
If you're comfortable in front of the camera, we capture you doing your thing, laughing with clients, arranging flowers, packaging up orders, or leading a class. These authentic shots help your audience connect with you.
We take short breaks between each set, review the content, and make sure we’re ticking everything off the shot list.
Step 3: Editing & Delivery
(3–5 working days after shoot)
Once the shoot’s done, I back up everything and begin editing. This includes:
Colour correction to match your brand palette
Cropping for social media sizes
File renaming for easy use
Light retouching and export in both web + high-res formats
Depending on the package, I’ll also create a few ready-to-post Instagram captions or schedule the content using a tool like Later or Planoly.
You’ll receive a gallery of curated images and/or video clips - fully licenced for your marketing.
Step 4: Using the Content
The final step is where the magic happens - sharing what we’ve created with the world! You can use your new content to:
Batch schedule Instagram posts
Update your website visuals
Create newsletter graphics
Pitch yourself to press or clients
Build a consistent brand identity
I always encourage clients to reuse content across platforms. That 5-second clip of you pouring coffee? Use it on Reels, your website homepage, and as a GIF on Stories.
Why Work With a Content Creator?
You’re busy running your business, and DIY content often gets pushed down the to-do list. Investing in content creation gives you:
✅ Professional, high-quality visuals
✅ Confidence that your brand is consistent
✅ Strategic assets designed for your audience
✅ Time back to focus on what you do best
Whether you’re a florist in Clifton, a therapist in Bedminster, or a personal trainer in Redland, content creation isn’t just about “being visible.” It’s about showing up in a way that feels intentional and aligned with your goals.
Final Thoughts
A content creation day isn’t just a photoshoot. It’s an opportunity to tell your story, show the heart behind your business, and connect with the people who are already looking for you!
I work with Bristol-based small businesses to plan, manage and create social media content, so if you’re looking for social media support, get in touch here - I’d love to help!