Finding the Perfect Photoshoot Location

Back in my fashion blogging days I would amaze people when they asked me where I took the photos I did and told them some obscure location that is not otherwise utilized like an alleyway, or random staircase, or church entryways are always good. This is because it is sometimes more about how the shot is captured than where the shoot actually took place.

But it's not that the location doesn't matter at all. A location can be just as sentimental as the photos themselves. Ultimately it is just up to the photographer to make it work. But here are some ideas for locations and things to consider for your photoshoot.

If you are going on vacation, think of bringing a photographer or booking a local one for while you are out. I know that this will add to the vaca budget, potentially significantly, but it usually is worth it when you can travel with your family without having to bring camera equipment with you and you don't have to worry about missing shots -- that's what your photographer is there for!

If you are doing senior photos, consider getting your photos done either at the high school you are graduating from or the college you will be attending. Colorado University particularly has a plethora of gorgeous backdrops, which is where the above senior photos were taken.

We have a family friend who has land and a cabin up in the mountains. We used to go camping there every year until forest fires threatened its existence and did cause some damage. Regardless, it was such a special spot for my oldest son that we did his senior photos at that same spot a few years ago.

Usually when you think of photoshoots you typically think of an indoor photo studio with that plastic drape thing of six different backgrounds or a stunning nature background. Both of these are great options and have their own pros and cons to them. But don't forget that those are not the only places you can do a photoshoot. You could go to your favorite diner, the gym, a candy shop or, as is the case in the above photos, just somewhere you always make your parents pull over for. In the case with the photo above, Into the Wind.

This is more of your photographer's job, but you do want to take into account the lighting situation and what you are dealing with. If it is a dark alley, as with above, your photographer may need to use a flash or extra equipment. Again, this is on your photographer to scope the place out and sus out these details for you but understand that it might come into consideration.

If this is an open to the public place, are you or anyone in your party going to be bothered getting your photos taken in front of a potential audience? If it is a private entity, venue or space, do you need to get a permit, make a deposit or schedule the shot with their calendar in mind?

Two of the main ingredients for a successful photoshoot are sentiment and beauty. Make sure that wherever you end up picking has a slice of both of these things. Your photographer should take care of the rest for you.