Why Renting a Brand Photoshoot Location Is Totally Worth It

During all planning sessions with my clients, the *very* first thing we pin down is location. Location is the foundation for the rest of the photoshoot. It solidifies everything else about the experience, like: 

  • What to wear

  • What accessories to bring

  • Whether you’re going to be standing or sitting

  • What props to bring

  • …and so much more

I recommend renting a location because you can literally choose what details will be in your photo backdrop.

You’re already putting so much time and energy into your photoshoot. You’ve taken the day off, gotten your hair/makeup done, and picked out a whole new wardrobe. So, might as well go ALL IN and invest in a perfect-for-you location to make sure your background brings everything together seamlessly.

HOW TO ENSURE A SUCCESSFUL BRAND PHOTOSHOOT:

  1. The location — To reflect your personality and brand’s mission.

  2. Hair/makeup — To ensure you feel radiant and stunning for your big day. 

  3. Wardrobe — To make sure you’re sporting the look that aligns with your brand.

I highly recommend investing in a photoshoot location. A place that aligns flawlessly with your brand. 

Without a hand-picked location, you risk having your brand look less coordinated, which could hinder your overall branding. 

Here are some ideas where you can find your ideal location.

HOW CAN I FIND A PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION?

Many of my clients have asked me, “where can I find a location for my photoshoot?” 

And I have a few different methods I always give them. Here are my top three ways to find your perfect photoshoot location, so you can get a head start on your search.

1. Peerspace

This is a great resource for photography sessions. It’s basically like Airbnb for photoshoots. There’s a cool search feature where all you do is add your activity (ex: a photoshoot), the city of your photoshoot, and the day you’re looking for. It’ll then give you many options to choose from.

2. Home Studio List

This is another great one for finding a beautiful location. There are tons of spaces to choose from there. You can filter according to what you’re looking for — whether it’s a mansion, a lakefront home, a beach home, or a cabin. The sky’s the limit. There are so many choices — make sure to choose one that aligns with you.

3. Rent a nearby location

If there’s a location you have your eye on in the city of your photoshoot, chances are you can rent it out. Places like hotels, beautiful cafes, and restaurants are a few that come to mind. Some require a small fee, and others don’t — it depends on the location, so it doesn’t hurt to ask.

What’s important is that you have a clear vision about what location is right for your brand. Think about what words describe the look you’re going for.

When I first start working with my clients, we work through my Brand Strategy questions so we can get clear on their brand story and who they want to connect with.

Then, I look at the details of the locations and make sure they match what they want to express.

THE RESULT OF CHOOSING AN AMAZING PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION

I’m passionate about the importance of investing in a location for your photoshoot. As a photographer, I see how much it can uplevel your photos. 

When you have authentic and magnetic photos, your ideal clients come knocking on your virtual door excited to work with you. 

I’ll leave you with a few BONUS tips to keep in mind when choosing a photoshoot location: 

➤ Choose a location that is not overly distracting. Locations with minimal decor are best, so it doesn’t distract from you and your branding. If a location is beautiful, but there’s too much clutter, the viewer’s eye goes straight to the “stuff” — taking away attention from you.

➤ Make sure the location is either neutral or includes your brand colors. If your brand colors clash with the background, it’ll distract the viewer’s eye. The focus should be all on you for your personal brand. 

➤ Locations with beautiful natural light can be very flattering on your skin, so it’s best to choose spaces with tons of natural daylight.  

If you need more help finding the perfect locations for your brand shoot, I am happy to help. 

If you haven’t yet booked your personal branding photoshoot, I’d love to work with you so we can get you some outstanding photos that you will be excited to show off! Contact the studio here

I am also travel, so if you’re outside of California, I’d love to meet you in your town too. 

Nina Pomeroy

Professional headshot and portrait photographer since 2000, Headshots, Personal Branding and Lifestyle Portraits. Studio located in Pleasanton California.

http://ninapomeroy.com
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