When planning out a photoshoot, there are lots of decisions to be made.  It can be overwhelming to think of all the decisions, such as outfits, photographer, shot list, where to shoot, etc. However, if you have a good idea of your brand message, colors, and what you want to convey, these decisions become much more manageable. You can read more about planning a successful brand photo shoot here.

Today I’m going to talk about locations.  What different kinds of locations can say and how they can best serve you depending on what you are trying to achieve with your final images.

Home

Many people find that taking photos in their home is the best location for them as it is comfortable and conveys a sense of trust since we see them in an intimate environment.   This location may make sense for a wide array of people from a counselor or life coach working from their home office, a lifestyle blogger trying on clothes in front of her mirror, a personal chef prepping food in their kitchen, an artist creating art in her home studio or fitness coach working out in their backyard.  There are so many reasons why choosing your home as a photoshoot location may be right for you.  Start thinking about what in your surroundings would help you communicate your message.  

Studio

A studio that is rented by the hour can provide clean and simple backgrounds.  It can really be transformed into whatever you desire or can be a minimalistic space that is perfect for classic headshots and modern striking images. 

City

This category includes images of city skylines, shopping areas downtown, coffee shops, public buildings such as the library, etc.  These can be fun and playful and has the opportunity to show a more sophisticated look. 

Nature

Depending on your brand, including natural elements may be very important to your overall aesthetic.  There are lots of different locations in nature or places that incorporate nature that may make sense for you.  For example, a yoga instructor may want images at the beach or a fitness coach may want active photos at a local park or arboretum.  Maybe it makes sense to utilize a winery or local farm, or if rainy, a greenhouse or nursery.  Nature can also be incorporated in any of the other locations as well through the use of potted plants and bouquets of flowers.  

Work 

Sometimes your office setting may be the perfect spot.  If your office has clean lines or specific backgrounds and ‘props’ that can’t be recreated elsewhere, or maybe are too cumbersome to move, then it might be the prefect space.  Think massage therapists, boutique owners, or real estate agents on location at a house for sale.  

Now that you’ve seen a brief list of possible locations for personal branding photo shoots, what kinds of spots would work for you and your brand? Or, if you’re a photographer shooting personal branding, what locations have you shot at? I would love to hear feedback as I’m always aiming to be a resource for others.

Thanks!