One of the first things a photographer needs to learn is how to find photography locations! Location is very important. For every session you have to consider your client’s style, personality, the type of session you are shooting, the mood you want to convey, etc. Believe it or not, there are endless possibilities of locations no matter where you live and there are a ton of resources to help you find them!
1. Use local groups or clubs
Find the nearest Facebook group in your city or state. Get to know the fellow photographers in person and online. Contribute to posts, answer questions and you will get so much information, help and support back in return.
For example, in July I needed help finding the most beautiful location for Amber’s Breast Cancer Inspiration Shoot. I wanted to find the prettiest spot in Cache Valley and had less then 24 hours to find it. I posted in my local photography group for some help. There were over 20 location suggestions with picture and blog post examples as well as a private message from a fellow photographer offering his private property for a shoot. We ended up using the private property and it was beyond perfect.
2. Follow local photographers
Blog stalk your favorite local photographers. Look for locations that you absolutely love and find out where they are. A lot of photographers, including myself, will include the location in the title or post. I also get emails and messages for location suggestions all the time and I am more than happy to share. Beware: there are some photographers that are very stingy when it comes to sharing session details.
3. Internet & Maps
Do a quick google map search for locations in your area or check out sites like http://www.shothotspot.com/. ShotHotSpot is the coolest site for photographers! There are a ton of pinned locations complete with pictures, location type and address in your area
4. Explore
Get out of your house – drive, hike and explore your area! Go to the canyons, parks, school campuses or take a stroll downtown. Find inspiration in new locations.
Remember, Location isn’t everything
While location is important, a lot of people (clients and photographers) get hung up on the location thinking that it can make or break a session. Remember that all locations can be beautiful. I have seen engagement sessions in an aisle at Walmart, lush forests and isolate deserts. The photographers of these totally different sessions were all able to capture the love and emotions of their clients. No matter where you end up taking pictures, remember that your subject is the absolute most important part of the picture.
Kylee Ann Maughan is a family and international brand photographer based in small-town Northern Utah. She has been a business owner for 13.5 years, and also runs a successful and award-winning associate team. Kylee hosts semi-annual retreats, speaks at conferences and teaches online courses about running a small business and marketing. Her niche in coaching is helping moms turn their passion into profit, while being the mom they dream of.
February 17, 2016
Kylee Maughan
