Finding the perfect location for your photo shoot is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming. There are so many possibilities. How do you choose the right one?
Don’t worry! We’ve got some tips that will help you narrow down your choices to find the best setting for your future photoshoots.
Let your client lead you to the location
Before thinking about specific locations, talk to your client about what they want. But don’t ask them where they want to be photographed. Instead, ask them what kind of mood, feeling, or atmosphere they’re looking for. They might want urban, rural, bright open spaces, gray and grungy, or cozy and warm.
If they have a mood or feeling in mind, you can narrow them down to the locations that fit their needs. They’ll think you’re a photography genius for finding the perfect spot. If your clients don’t know what they want, show them your portfolio. They’re bound to like some pieces more than others, which can help direct you to the right location.
You can also ask your clients what kind of decor, themes, and color schemes they have in their homes. Based on their answer, suggest locations that will compliment their home decor. How brilliant will you look if you produce photos that look like they were shot specifically for your client’s living room? That, my friend, is how referrals are made.
If you can’t think of a fitting location, check out some local photography blogs which often feature posts on the best local places to take photos.
Location considerations
Once you have an idea of the mood and story your client wants their photos to tell, you can start thinking about the particulars.
Lighting
As a photographer, you’re always thinking about lighting, whether you’re shooting indoors or out. Lighting can make or break a photo shoot.
If you’ll be shooting outside, you have to consider the time of day and position of the sun. The worst time to shoot is when the sun is beating directly down on your subject. This causes lots of shadows, especially under the eyes, that are difficult to remedy. It’s better to shoot shortly after sunset or sunrise, during the “golden hour,” when the light is warm and the shadows are sparse.
Diversity
Choose a location that offers a diversity of scenery. If you choose a location that only has one or two settings, then you’ll most likely need to travel to other locations. Otherwise, your photos will lack variety. Travelling isn’t the worst thing, but it does interrupt the flow of the shoot. It’s better to find a location that offers a variety of photo opportunities. This can also save time, which your clients will thank you for.
Client-based considerations
Think about your clients. If you know your clients are busy people with kids, look for a location with a variety of photo ops, so you don’t have to travel to multiple sites. If the kids will be in the shots, make sure you keep the photo shoot fun and engaging to keep their attention.
Also, consider safety and accessibility. You don’t want to put any of your clients at risk of injury, so choose a place that’s easy to access, safe, and regulated. You might have found an amazing location, but if your client gets injured during the shoot, they won’t be so jazzed about the location.
If you’re looking for a photography studio for rent where you can customize and stage your photo shoot, local photography studios may offer their space. It might cost more than free public space, but what you sacrifice in money, you gain control of lighting and potentially happier clients.