Picture day can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to. With more than 30 years of experience photographing dance, cheer, and gymnastics teams, Sheryl Bashore has built a proven system that keeps sessions organized, stress-free, and profitable while giving families photos they’ll treasure. In this article, she shares the strategies that make her one of the most trusted names in volume photography.
Preparing for a Successful Volume Photography Session
Organization is the foundation of every successful volume job. Sheryl begins with a detailed packing list and checks off each item as it’s loaded. Every light stand, modifier, and camera is labeled and color-coded so assistants can set up stations that look exactly the same. This consistency not only keeps the line moving but also ensures that images remain uniform, even if a child misses picture day and needs to be photographed weeks later.
GotPhoto software also plays a key role in preparing for the shoot. Sheryl uploads rosters in advance, complete with parent emails and phone numbers, so communication is ready to go before the first photo is even taken. Packages and pricing are also built into the platform, which means parents will see simple, clear options when galleries go live.
Finally, gear prep is essential. Camera batteries, triggers, and strobes are fully charged the night before, and QR codes are stacked and ready for the first subject in line. By the time picture day arrives, everything is seamless and ready to roll.
Using Westcott Creative Mask for Faster, More Dynamic Results
One of Sheryl’s core beliefs is that variety leads to sales. A single photo may result in a single print, but when parents are presented with multiple poses, they are far more likely to purchase larger packages, or even the coveted “buy all” option. That’s why she emphasizes giving each child a sequence of looks, from full-body action shots to polished headshots.
This is where Westcott’s Creative Mask feature becomes a game changer. Built into the FJ400 II and FJ800, Creative Mask allows Sheryl to capture multiple lighting looks in quick succession without ever touching her trigger or moving a light. Parents now see two or three unique images from one pose, and Sheryl keeps her line moving faster than ever.
For a step-by-step guide, check out Creative Mask Mode: Quick Setup & Use and see how simple it is to set up.
For full-body group and individual shots, Sheryl relies on a two-light system. A Lastolite illuminating background creates a soft, even glow, while a front-facing beauty dish or large octa adds flattering light to the subject. Everything is carefully measured and locked in place so that every station looks identical. With Creative Mask engaged, she can capture a traditional full body shot followed instantly by a silhouette, creating two distinct images without slowing down.
Headshots are equally efficient. Sheryl uses the Westcott Rapid Box Switch Octa paired with an FJ800 for her main light, combined with an Eyelighter to brighten eyes and smooth skin. Hair lights are handled with Rapid Box Switch 1x3 strip softboxes with grids, and an FJ200 Strobe with gels adds color when needed. By running a three-frame Creative Mask sequence, she captures two beautifully lit headshots and one dramatic low-key portrait, all while the subject holds a single pose. Parents love the variety, and every child walks away with both classic and creative options.
Another key to keeping things smooth is repeatability. Sheryl’s setups never change once they are dialed in, which makes it possible to add subjects later without any visible difference. Stations are matched down to the inch, making her system reliable and easy for assistants to replicate. She also works with a dedicated poser who guides children through positions and movements while Sheryl focuses on timing, light, and exposure. This partnership speeds up the process while ensuring poses look natural and technically correct.
Post-Shoot Workflow
The heavy lifting doesn’t end when the last child is photographed. Fortunately, GotPhoto automates the process so Sheryl can focus on photography instead of order forms. Images are uploaded directly into the system, where QR codes and tags automatically create private, password-protected galleries. Parents receive text and email notifications as soon as galleries go live, complete with direct links to their child’s images.
Sheryl sets her communications to follow a drip campaign format, with reminders that build urgency as coupon deadlines approach. Her most effective offer has been 10% off purchases of $100 or more. This small incentive encourages parents to spend at least that amount, raising average order value while keeping the buying process simple. With integrated print labs handling fulfillment, orders ship straight to parents without having to involve coaches or team managers.
Sheryl Bashore’s Formula for Stress-Free Volume Photography
Sheryl Bashore has built her career around efficiency, consistency, and creativity. By combining Westcott’s reliable lighting with the flexibility of Creative Mask and the streamlined workflow of GotPhoto, she has found a way to make volume photography smoother for both photographers and parents. Reliable gear and smart software take the stress out of picture day, leaving more room to focus on what matters most: creating images families will treasure.
Want to see more of Creative Mask in action?
Check out Creative Mask: How to Get More Looks in Less Time, where Brandon from Westcott demonstrates how to capture 36 unique looks in under a minute.
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