I was a stylist who mainly worked in print with various photographers in the Los Angeles area. I can comment a bit on this topic ... about how it usually works. I can't comment on what a client likes and doesn't like, except what I have seen them discuss.
Advance planning: Usually the photographer "organizes" the shoot ... not the client. The client organizes the products or items they want to have shot. Unless the client has a preference, the photographer usually selects the wardrobe/fashion stylist and the hair/makeup artist that will be used. Also, the photographer works with the client to select models from a local agency and sometimes works with the client to select a location. If it is catalog work, the photographer's studio is all that is needed. Back drops are selected from what the photographer has and props, if any, are sourced by anyone ... the client, the photographer, the stylist.
It should be team work, with the photographer leading the team. But ... the photographer is pretty much at the mercy of the client, if the client want's to be in charge. The client is paying ... so it's his money. The photographer was hired to produce what he usually does ... so it's his vision. A delicate dance, to say the least.
Therefore, the most important thing, I think (and something you did not mention) is: who is in charge? If the photographer and the client struggle for power on set, it totally disrupts the work and upsets the crew and most importantly, the models, who must be able to deliver their best work..
Almost all clients want to be there at the shoot, and they are entitled to be there. Some will allow the photographer to do his thing, but many will not. So ... this needs to be worked out in detail ... in advance, with everyone agreeing who is going to be responsible for each detail. And who will direct the models and the crew.
Most of the time, the photog directs his own assistants, and the client will want to direct models and the stylists. But ... taking full charge, the client will loose the photographer's vision and the results may be mediocre. So, in the best situation, I think , is to have a collaboration between the two. Photog in charge of and directing the models and team, but with permission from the client if he wants to change anything substantially. It's up to the photog to convince the client that the changes will make it better.
The client would be given "proofs" of all of the shots taken (there would be many of each outfit) and would be tasked with selecting his/her choices. The photographer would then do "post" photoshopping .... fixing color, cleaning up the photo, etc. to get it ready for the client. What I do know, is that the client usually wants to look at the photos while the shoot is in progress, and also immediately after the shoot. Clients would love to have proofs in hand, that day. Some photogs are able to deliver this fast ... some, not so fast. The photog must advise the client when and how many proofs they may expect ... in advance, in writing. And it's important that he deliver when he says he will. Deadlines are very important to a client and any delays will damage his reputation.
Hope this information helps some.
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