Location matters, but sometimes it doesn’t especially if you know how to take different photos at the same spot. I saw this article and thought it was interesting, so I will try it myself. Although I usually shoot at the same spots all the time, I think it’s unique to see a different perspective. When it comes to location, I try to be fair. I know Atlanta can be huge, and I don’t want my clients coming all over the place to meet me for a photoshoot. I try to narrow down a spot that puts us in the middle so if I live in Conyers, GA (which I do) and they live in Duluth, then I try to meet in Snellville for a location or somewhere where they aren’t going all over the place. I know some people shoot at the same places but I want to give some insight on why I choose locations and hopefully it will help you for your next photoshoot. Here is how to find a location for your next photoshoot.
Follow other area photographers and see where they shoot at. That’s the best way to find a location. Sometimes just walking out and about or driving thru somewhere can help you find a location for your next shoot. I have been going out to dinner and said to myself wow that’s a great place to shoot and I will write it down.
Tik Tok will also help you find a great location too. My friend sent me a location that I had never been at before that was gorgeious right off the beltline and it’s my new favorite spot. I have a list of places that I love to shoot at saved in my notes, saved on social media, and saved in my emails that others send me.
The best way to pick a location is to figure out what you are looking to accomplish. For my seniors we specifically pick places that work for their personality and I kinda do the same for my clients who shoot. They tell me what they are looking to do and I find a spot that fits that specific task. For example I have a client that writes for a living she is a ghost writer and she writes for various publications. She is always needed headshots and behind the scene looks. So I shot her at a bookstore and we picked various ones around town. The library works too if you can be silent. Example of her shoots below.
So location is based off of what you need and if i can knock two things out at once time so if you need headshots and content for your brand one spot can work.
If it’s a family photoshoot and I know you have a small baby and it’s cold outside we will opt to do an inside location. Most inside locations are not free so it’s all about what my clients can afford. If they can’t afford a spot then we do outside because I know times are tough and I want to be conscious of their budget.
Here are some tips
- Find areas that are off the beaten path. I have found great spots in a parking garage and at the top of one
- A location might look good at noon but even better at night so don’t judge a book by it’s cover until you see it at different times of the day
- Train tracks are cute but you can’t hear when that train is coming sometimes. I would stay off of them but shooting on the side works. I love the industrial look of buildings too
- Parks that many people don’t visit. I know everyone loves Piedmont but I rarely shoot there I prefer a park that isn’t always thought about one in a smaller city or town.
- Popular spots are nice but find areas near the popular spot those are hidden gems too
- Go with what your client wants
- Always keep your eyes open for spaces that you cross paths with on your next adventure
- If you are shooting kids look for places that will interest all ages so that you can get the photo you need from them without making them sit and pose.
- Scout areas that are near bathroom or that have privacy if they need to change clothes
- Be aware of the parking restrictions so that none of you are booted (they do that a lot in Atlanta)
- Always have a backup plan to switch locations due to weather or if the spot is closed and you didn’t kow about it.
Those are some some of my tips to help you choose a location. If you ever need an idea of where to look let’s talk I am unqiue and think of different spots all the time.
