Location, Location, Location
Sure, you’ve heard the phrase location, location, location relating to the world of real estate — but did you know that location in photography is, well, everything? The location you choose for your photos, when combined with the wardrobe you select literally IS the aesthetic of your photos — so choose wisely! For tips on dressing for family photos, check out my blog post here, but today, let’s talk location.
First up - if you’re reading this in Northeast Ohio, then we’re going to need to factor in the season. The best months for outdoor photos are May-November. Beyond that, the weather and lack of daylight is going to make taking photos outside very difficult. I recommend families choose indoor options - either home, a fun spot around town, or a studio, when opting for photos in the months of December - April.
Okay, now that we have that out of the way, we can dive a little deeper and consider the vibe you’re hoping to achieve. Certain locations (parks, downtown areas, historical buildings), offer a more traditional or timeless aesthetic, while others provide a more romantic, dreamy, or bohemian mood (meadows, beaches, gardens, etc). Nailing down your ideal aesthetic will help all the other details of your session fall into place. If you have a vision for your photos (or Pinterest pins!), please share them with your photographer! We've shot in many many locations around town and may be able to suggest places that you’ve never considered.
The third and final thing to consider when choosing a location for photos is — will you feel comfortable there? Sometimes the idea of taking photos in your favorite coffee shop sounds fun, but if being photographed in a populated place makes you sweat just thinking about it — you may want to choose some place a little more secluded.
Lastly, feel free to lean on your photographer. We’re happy to recommend places that not only fit the aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve but we’re experts on helping people find their light! Lighting is such an important factor when choosing a location AND the time of day for your photos. If you’re scrolling Pinterest for inspo, I guarantee the majority of the photos that stop your scroll and land a spot on your mood board are taken during blue hour or golden hour. Blue hour one hour within sunrise and golden hour is one hour within the sunset. This lighting is IDEAL, you guys! And listen - I have 2 toddlers. The idea of taking family photos at 8:00pm in the summer sounds like a bad idea to me too. But the LIGHT… I’m telling you. It’s worth it. Check out a few of my favorite “aesthetics” from my sessions last summer below.
