Tips for Photographers: Choosing Portrait Locations

When I arrive on location for a wedding, the first thing I always do is walk or drive the property to find portrait locations. I never go and view wedding venues or locations before the wedding day, because my number one focus for portrait locations if finding the perfect light. If I were to go earlier in the year, or even at a different time of day, chances are the light is going to be much different so it doesn't really help me very much.

Wedding days are a whirlwind; keeping a close watch on the timeline, working efficiently, hauling gear, choosing lenses, accommodating last minute requests and more-- it can become a bit overwhelming which is why I always take those first 10-15 minutes to walk through and choose locations and get comfortable in my surroundings. If the venue is large I will sometimes snap a few photos on my iphone so I can scroll through quickly and remember the amazing spots I found. Taking this time to decide where and how I am going to approach bridal portraits, first look and full bridal party photos puts me and ease and allows me to really focus and get creative.

So, how do I choose my locations? Glad you asked....

1. Look for beautiful light! Light is the number one most important aspect of choosing photo locations and determines where I shoot. I always look for open shade-- I don't want spots from the sun coming through the trees and making my subjects look spotty. I also do not want the harsh sun beating down on them. Evenly shaded areas that aren't too dark are a dream because my subjects are evenly lit and that is when the magic happens! The photos below were both on the same campus. I immediately saw this trail (perfect example of open shade!) and fell in love. The old campus buildings had concrete areas that bounced the light back onto the bridal party, creating a natural reflector. The results? Stunning!

2. Visual Appeal! After I have found my dream light, I consider the visual appeal. Is the area pretty and appealing? Does it aid in creating the story of the day? Does it showcase the venue? In the shots below I had the bride stand along the outside of the barn which was her reception site. The long row of windows created interest in the background without distracting from her. We had photographed the bride's details in front of this barn earlier as well, so in the couples album the day is tied together with having the portraits in the same location.

3. Environmental Circumstances/Distance- Finally, I try and weigh if the distance is worth the trek for my couples. If I have an entire bridal party involved that makes the decision even more important because moving a large group of people in a short amount of time (and wedding days seem to have no excess of time, ever!) is a tall order! Depending on the temperature I don't want my couples getting too hot or cold, and I try to choose a location that has beautiful light, visual appeal and is also keeping everyone as comfortable as possible. The photos below were only about 20 feet from the couples tented reception. Both the ceremony and reception was at their family lake home, so having portraits with the water as a backdrop was essential in creating the story of their day! The sun was just going down in both shots, so the light was warm, even and gorgeous!

Taking these three things into consideration has ensured that I get consistent images that I love. I feel less stressed out and the day goes that much smoother! I hope these tips can help you in a small way!