So I want to try a new approach to shot planning using the mind-mapping software I’ve been experimenting with lately.

The concept is simple: take a reference image you like, break it down into its individual elements, and then use those elements to design your own version of the shot instead of copying the original.

It’s taking ‘pinning images on Pinterest’ one step further.

Here’s the breakdown I’m starting to use:

• Lighting
  • Where is the key light coming from?
  • How hard or soft is it?
  • Is there separation light, background light, or haze?

• Composition
  • Centered or asymmetrical?
  • Tight portrait or environmental?
  • Foreground/background layers?

• Subject Presence
  • Relaxed or confrontational?
  • Direct eye contact or candid moment?
  • Stillness vs movement?

• Environment
  • Studio or location?
  • Clean background or textured setting?
  • Props or no props?

• Mood
  • Cinematic?
  • Documentary?
  • Editorial?
  • Noir?

Once those pieces are mapped out, the interesting part starts: changing one or two variables and building something new from the same structure.