I Due North

A Photographer’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Location.

Choosing a location can make or break a photoshoot. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, be mindful of choosing the right setting that will resonate with your customer and audience. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best location for your next session.

DEFINE YOUR VISION: Before scouting for locations, it’s essential to have a clear vision of the style and mood you want to convey through your images. Are you aiming for urban chic, natural landscape or something more abstract?

CONSIDER YOUR LIGHTING: Lighting plays a pivotal role in photography, influencing the mood, texture and overall quality of your images. Assess how the natural light interacts with the environment at different times of the day. Soft, diffused light during the “golden hour”(sunrise or sunset) often yields the most flattering results. However, if shooting indoors is more your thing, be mindful of artificial lighting sources and how they affect your composition.

RESEARCH AND EXPLORE: Take time to research potential locations in your area or destination. Utilize online resources such as Google Maps, social media platforms or photography forums to discover hidden gems or popular spots that align with your vision. Once you have your list, go explore these locations in person.

CONSIDER PERMITS AND PERMISSION: Certain locations, especially landmarks, parks and private properties mat require permits or permissions. Some locations also may charge a fee per person or per hour so make sure to know that ahead of time too. By inquiring about any necessary paperwork or fees in advance you can avoid any legal complications and ensure a seamless photoshoot experience.

EMRACE VARIETY: Diversity in locations adds depth and interest to your photography portfolio. Mix and match different settings to showcase your versatility as a photographer. Experiment with contrasting backgrounds and environments to evoke different emotions and narratives in your imagery.

FACTOR IN SEASONAL CHANGES: Keep in mind how seasonal changes such as foliage, weather conditions and lighting angles can impact the appearance and atmosphere of your location.

BE MINDFUL OF ACCESSIBILITY: Ensure that your chosen locations are easily accessible to you, your clients and any equipment you need to bring. Consider factors like parking availability, terrain difficulty and mobility requirements when planning your photoshoot.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS: Ultimately, trust your instincts and creative intuition when selecting locations for your photoshoots. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone or explore unconventional settings that inspire you. Embrace spontaneity and adaptability, as unexpected discoveries often lead to memorable photographic experiences.

For our Christmas pictures several years ago I was initially inspired by the look of that old Christmas movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” when cousin Eddie is standing in the front yard in his very short robe, boots and hat dumping the waste from his camper. Strange inspiration, I know, but that is how I decided on the attire for this photoshoot. I was having a hard time determining where I wanted to do the pictures after I was unable to secure an RV. While driving around I saw the color of this truck wash and fell in love. I knew it was going to be perfect!

Once we arrived I went inside and asked permission to take pictures on the side of their building and while they may have thought we were all crazy in our PJs they were totally fine with it. I prefer shooting on days that were overcast, but on this morning it was not. I chose to shoot on this side of the wall because it provided the most shade.

These very non traditional Christmas pictures are still some of my favorite to date!