How to Write a Great Project Description
Updated
by Justin Kramer
A well-crafted project description is essential to attract the right talent and ensure your project runs smoothly. It provides potential applicants with a clear understanding of your needs, expectations, and the project's overall vision. Here's how to write an effective project description:
1. Start with a Clear Project Concept and Goals
- Describe the Vision: Outline the theme, style, or mood of your project. Are you aiming for a high-fashion editorial, a commercial shoot, or a creative art piece?
- Purpose of the Project: Explain what you're trying to achieve. Is it for publication, a brand campaign, portfolio expansion, or personal work?
- Inspiration: If applicable, mention any inspirations, references, or mood boards that convey the aesthetic you're aiming for.
2. Provide Detailed Role Descriptions
For Photographers:
- Shot List and Styles: Specify the types of shots you need—portraits, full-body, action shots, etc.
- Technical Requirements: Mention if you require specific photography techniques or equipment (e.g., drone photography, underwater shots).
For Models:
- Character Breakdown: Describe the look or persona you're seeking (e.g., edgy, classic beauty, avant-garde).
- Wardrobe Details: Indicate if the model needs to bring their own outfits or if wardrobe is provided.
For Other Professionals (Stylists, Designers, etc.):
- Specific Responsibilities: Outline what tasks they will handle (e.g., makeup application, hair styling, set design).
- Style Preferences: Share any style guidelines or themes they should follow.
3. Include Schedule and Location Details
- Dates and Times: Provide specific dates and time frames for the project. If flexible, mention potential time windows.
- Location Information: Give details about the shoot location—studio, outdoor setting, city, or exact address if available.
- Duration: Estimate how long the project or each session will take.
4. Specify Requirements and Expectations
- Experience Level: Indicate if you're looking for seasoned professionals or open to emerging talent.
- Skills and Expertise: List any required skills (e.g., proficiency in certain software, experience with runway walks).
- Equipment Needs: Note if the applicant needs to bring specific equipment or materials.
5. Outline Deliverables
- What to Expect: Clearly state what you expect to receive upon project completion (e.g., number of edited photos, video footage, designs).
- Deadlines: Provide timelines for when deliverables should be submitted.
6. Detail Collaboration and Team Information
- Team Members: Mention who else is involved in the project (e.g., makeup artists, other models).
- Working Dynamics: Explain how the applicant will interact with the team.
7. Additional Information
- Compensation Details: While you've indicated budget earlier, reiterate any important payment details or negotiable terms.
- Usage Rights: Clarify how the final work will be used (e.g., social media, print publication, commercial use).
- Nudity or Sensitive Content: Be upfront about any such requirements to ensure applicants are comfortable.
Tips for Writing an Effective Description
- Be Concise Yet Detailed: Provide enough information to inform but keep it clear and to the point.
- Use Bullet Points: Break up large blocks of text to make it easier to read.
- Highlight Unique Selling Points: If your project offers unique opportunities (e.g., high-profile publication, networking prospects), make sure to mention them.
- Proofread: Check for spelling and grammar errors to maintain professionalism.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Being Vague: Avoid unclear statements that could lead to misunderstandings.
- Overlooking Important Details: Don't assume applicants know specifics that haven't been mentioned.
- Using Jargon: Steer clear of overly technical language that might confuse applicants.
Example Project Description
"We are producing a high-fashion editorial shoot inspired by 1920s glamour for submission to top-tier fashion magazines. We seek a female model with experience in vintage styling and posing. The shoot will take place on October 15th in a downtown Los Angeles studio from 10 AM to 4 PM. Wardrobe and makeup will be provided, but familiarity with flapper-era aesthetics is a plus. Deliverables include a portfolio of edited images for both parties. Compensation is $500 for the day, with the possibility of future collaborations. Images will be used for publication and promotional purposes."
By incorporating these elements into your project description, you'll attract the right candidates and set the stage for a successful collaboration. Remember, the more information you provide, the easier it is for professionals to envision themselves in your project and deliver their best work.
