May 12, 2015
As an on-location photographer, I’m constantly looking for new and unique spots for my Engagement and Portrait Sessions. The number one question I’m asked right after a client books a session is, “Where should we go?” Truthfully, the possibilities are endless! Beauty can be found anywhere and instead of just giving a set location, I always work with my clients to help them find a spot that will fit perfectly with who they are and make their session special and meaningful. Here are my five tips for helping you find that perfect spot for your Portrait Session.
1. Customize to Fit Your Personality
Before I ever start hunting for the perfect spot, I always check in with my couples and families. I want these sessions to be a reflection of whoever I’m photographing. I ask all my couples to think of those favorite spots they like to go together. Maybe it’s where they had their first date. Maybe it’s their favorite spot to go on a Friday night. Either way, finding a location that represents YOU will give your photos that extra special feel.
2. It’s Not Really About Where, It’s About WHEN
No need to stress on where we go because wherever you choose, your session is going to be beautiful. Just about any location (minus a few exclusions) can look amazing, but what’s really important is WHEN we shoot. I am open to wherever, but I’m very strict on what times we shoot there. Because I absolutely love the look of natural light and work with it exclusively, I choose to shoot two hours after the sun rises and two hours before the sun sets. These unique windows of time are known as “the golden hour.” It’s where the sun looks it’s best, creating the warm, incredible light where everything looks dreamy and gorgeous. Any other time during the day (unless it’s overcast) the sun is too high up in the sky and will create harsh lighting, not to mention lots of squinting and raccoon eyes.
The “Three Be’s” that will help you think of the perfect location:
3. Be Unique
Think outside of the box! This session is all about you so why settle for anything that doesn’t fit? Think about your likes and interests and tie them into the shoot in unique ways. Love baseball? Let’s shoot at a staduim! Love hiking? Let’s shoot on top of a cliff or mountain! Love art? Let’s shoot at a gallery! When you start opening your mind to different possibilities then the ideas will easily flow and you’ll be able to find the location that’s perfect for you!
4. Be Adventurous
Feel free to explore! We do not have to stay in the same city for your session. Do you love travel? Do you have a favorite spot outside the city we live in? Let’s shoot there! Do not feel like we are limited to only shooting around Northeast Wisconsin. Did you fall in love in Madison? Let’s shoot there. Have a vacation spot in Aspen? Road-trip! Love visiting the vineyards and wineries in Napa each year? Let’s hop on a plane! No, that’s not a joke, I’m totally up for it!
5. Be Open to Suggestions
If you are feeling stumped on a unique place to go, I’m always here to help find the perfect spot. To help you, I’ll ask questions like, “What do you like to do in your free time?” or “Do you prefer green spaces or water-front views?” These questions will help narrow down what look you are going for so I can better scout out the location of your dreams. It’s all about finding a spot that speaks to your personality and makes sense.
Planning your Engagement Session? Now that you know how to find your ideal session location, find out what the next steps are for Preparing for Your Engagement Session!
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