Top 5 things to consider when choosing a photo location

The most common question I get from clients is “where do you think we should have our session done at?

As a photographer this is one of the hardest questions a client can ask.  Don’t get me wrong, I love to help you in any way I can (even outside the photography world.  Example: if you have a baby, I’ll bring you a meal.  I just love being a help to others) however; you know your family better than I do.

Related Article

14 Simple Tips to Photographing in a Busy Location

Top 5 things to consider when choosing a photo location

1.  Comfort. 

Choose where everyone is going to be comfortable.  If they are comfortable, they will be comfortable in front of the camera and photos turn out great.  Win Win!!  This little man had his session upstairs in my home; we blasted the heaters, turned on some fans, and Dad rocked him for a long time.

2.  Weather. 

Lets face it, here on the Oregon Coast most beaches are windy.  Don’t get me wrong, the wind can add a nice effect but when it get to the point where your eyes are squinting from the breeze…doesn’t quite work well for anyone.  However, there are still beaches in the area that are hidden and they help reduce the wind.  Sun is another one!  Find somewhere that has some shade.  Most of us have very white skin and putting us in the sun for even a hour can cause a sunburn.

3.  Safety. 

This can also tie in with my first tip however, there are locations that I have had clients want to do their sessions at and I’ve had to say “no.”  One of the main ones is the railroad tracks.  I’m going to be honest upfront.  If the tracks belong to federal land…it is illegal to shoot there.  However, if the tracks belong to the city, it is the cities discretion to what you are or aren’t allowed to do.  Call to find out for sure in your area.  In the town that I live in you are allowed to use the tracks after they are closed and not allowed to play in the cars.  They say to say as far on the side of the tracks as possible.  In the end, make sure you are following the law and that your clients and yourself are safe.

4.  Have a backup location and date.

I live on the Oregon Coast and we can get rain, sun, snow, and hail all one day.  I always have clients choose a backup location and date.  In fact, its a must in my contract.  However, no matter where you live, the weather can always change and its a good habit to have a plan b in many cases.  The family below is a prime example of needing to have a back up plan.  They knew they wanted their session in the country however, the date of their session had to be changed thus the location had to be changed.  Thankfully, with living in the country myself, I have wonderful neighbors and family that is willing to help out.

5.  Chose somewhere fun! 

No matter where you session is, it should be somewhere where you will create happy memories.  Moments are captured where moments are shared and when it’s all said and done, my goal is for everyone to leave with a smile on their face.  That’s, in the end, is what counts.

Jessica Lillie Photography

My name is Jessica Lillie and first and foremost I am a daughter of Christ, wife, mother, and lastly a photographer. My husband and I have 2 boys and own 20 acres out in the country on the Oregon Coast; it’s our little slice of heaven on earth. I started my photography business in 2011 and earned by bachelors in Physical Health and Wellness from Eastern Oregon University in 2012. Photography is something that brings me much joy and capture your joy, to me, is a blessing.