One of the first questions I am asked after securing a date with a client is “Where do I start with selecting a CT location for family portraits?” As everyone knows, it’s all about location, location, location! Here are a few things to consider when narrowing down your choices:
Has the photographer shot this ideal location before?
Your first step is to ask your photographer if they have shot in a certain ideal location before. If they are familiar with this place, it is more likely that they have “go-to” spots. This means they are confident they can get the shots they need. Most photographers spend at least a few minute scouting a location ahead of time. However, you will more than likely benefit with more pictures and less wasted time by using a location that is familiar to them. Ask your photographer for a list of location recommendations to help you in selecting a CT location.
Selecting a CT Location: What is the purpose of your pictures?
A lot of clients really want a drastically unique location with a lot of interesting backdrops. However, you may want to stop and consider what your goal is for your session. If you want a really great picture of your three daughters together, a great shot isn’t going to require a jaw-dropping backdrop. If anything, this distracts from their love and connection. A good photographer can do a lot with a simple location. Definitely don’t feel that you need to have an impressive location to get impressive pictures.
What are the rules at this location?
Once you have narrowed down your locations, it’s important to find out the rules of the location. A quick Google search will help you to do this. I always do this ahead of time for my clients. If you’re unsure if your photographer has done this, you may want to double-check. There is nothing worse than arriving at your location to be surprised. You don’t want to find out there is a huge event there that day or that dogs are actually not allowed. Or even worse, find out that they are closing in 20 minutes!
Selecting a CT Location: Is the light going to be best at this location?
Most clients haven’t been trained in “ideal lighting” for photography. However, this is what is going to make or break your session. You want to avoid harsh, direct light as much as possible. Having a session at 1pm in the summer on the beach is not going to get you the pictures you dream of. That is, unless you luck out with a cloudy day! Locations that provide some sort of block from the sun (think trees, buildings, walls) are ideal. This is because they will help you get the right amount of light to get the best pictures possible.
Ideal Location Considerations
If the idea of choosing an ideal location is overwhelming to you, feel free to hand the reins to the expert and ask your photographer for a few options that they would recommend in the area. As you can see, there is a lot to consider when deciding where you want to do pictures and this is why having a photographer that is confident in the area can be a major bonus. This is also why mini-sessions can be appealing, because the location is pre-scouted and it takes the pressure off of you trying to decide what the best fit is.
