To be honest, while location options for your senior session should be carefully considered, we can get an amazing portrait at just about ANY location. Look through my portfolio – for many images you can’t distinguish what location we’re at.

Take this photo of Michelle – this was taken in a parking lot!! She was sitting on the curb of the parking space I was standing in!

I believe that a portrait should be about the subject, so I’m often using techniques to minimize background elements. To me, the best background is one that will enhance, not take over or away from the person in the photo.

So does location even matter at all? For sure! Location choice influences the feel and style of your senior pictures, and is a reflection of your personality, so it’s worthwhile to choose a meaningful spot. And that brings me to my first tip…

1. Think about how you want your senior pictures to look. If you want something natural and rustic, start brainstorming local parks and natural areas. If you want something a little more casual, maybe the beach or harbor would be a good fit. Do you like bright colors? Then a garden full of flowers would work well. If you want something more modern and urban there are lots of downtown areas to check out. Check out my list of portrait location ideas here to get your creative juices going…

2. Ideally your location will have areas of shade. Direct sunlight is NOT the the most flattering light for portrait photography (think harsh shadows & squintey eyes). I like to use buildings, overhangs, trees, or any other structures in the area that can provide a little shade if it’s a super sunny day.

3. Choose somewhere with a variety of features and spots to use. Since time of day and weather drastically affects lighting, and there may be other people we need to work around, it’s nice to have a location with several good features to choose from. Then if our main spot doesn’t work out the way we envisioned, we can just walk to another. The more variety we have to choose from in a small area, the easier and more fun your session will be!

4. Last but not least, is the location practical? Are you allowed to take pictures there? Is there a permit or fee required (you’d be surprised how many places require one)? Will it be easy to park? Easy to walk around? Crowded? Are you able to change outfits in a nearby restroom, or will we need to use my pop-up changing tent? Not thinking ahead about these things can lead to a frustrating experience.

I have lot’s of specific suggestions for locations I’ve used and loved…but I’m always up from trying new spots my clients have scouted out! I encourage you to drive around and see what locations you can come up with – you’d be amazed at the spots you can find when you’ve really got your eyes open, sometimes practically in your back yard!

When you book your senior session with me, I’ll ask you about any location ideas you already have, and also what you want your senior pictures to look like. Then I can make personalized recommendations for locations based on your responses!

Questions? Ready to book and/or plan YOUR session? Contact me today!