How to Find Stunning Photography Locations That Elevate Your Work

Finding a great photography location can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. For a photographer, the stakes are even higher. The perfect spot needs to align with your client's brand vision, offer a unique backdrop that stands out in a competitive market, and be accessible for a crew and all their gear. It’s a crucial step that can make or break a photoshoot, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding part of the creative process. At Hawk Media Services, we believe that every location has a story to tell, and our goal is to help you find the one that best complements yours.

So, where do you begin your search?

Define Your Vision and Your Client's Needs

Before you even think about looking for a location, you need to understand what you're trying to achieve, both for your creative vision and for your client's brand. Are you shooting a high-fashion editorial for a luxury brand? A lifestyle campaign for an outdoor clothing company? A corporate headshot series? Your answers will dictate the type of location you need.

Mood & Atmosphere: Do you want a location that feels grand and epic, or intimate and cozy? How does this align with the brand's message?

Subject Matter: What are you photographing? The location should enhance, not overpower, your subject, whether that's a product, a model, or a CEO.

Practical Considerations: Are you shooting during the day or at night? Indoors or outdoors? Do you need access to power for lighting and equipment? Is there a secure space for a changing area and gear?

By clearly defining your vision and understanding your client's brief, you can narrow down your search and avoid getting lost in a sea of possibilities.

Harness the Power of Digital Tools

The internet has revolutionised the way we find locations. Here are some of our go-to digital resources:

Google Maps & Google Earth: These are your best friends. Use them to scout potential locations from the comfort of your home. Switch to "Street View" to get a feel for the area and check for accessibility. Use Google Earth to see the lay of the land, which is especially useful for landscape photography.

Social Media: Instagram and Pinterest are goldmines for location inspiration. Search for hashtags like #yourcityphotographer, #yourcitystreetphotography, or #yourcitylandmarks. Look at what other photographers are shooting in your area and take note of the locations that catch your eye. For commercial projects, pay attention to how different locations are being used to tell a story.

Location Scouting Apps: Apps like "Scout" and "Locations" are specifically designed for photographers. They often have user-submitted locations with photos and details about accessibility, lighting, and permits.

Online Photography Communities: Websites like 500px, Flickr, and Pexels often have forums or groups dedicated to specific regions or genres of photography. You can connect with local photographers and get insider tips on hidden gems.

Get Out and Explore (The Old-Fashioned Way)

While digital tools are invaluable, nothing beats physically exploring your surroundings. This is where the magic often happens.

Go on a "Photo Walk": Grab your camera and simply walk around your city or town with no specific destination in mind. Pay attention to the details—the way the light hits a building at a certain time of day, a quirky alleyway, or an interesting texture on a wall.

Explore Different Neighbourhoods: Each neighbourhood has its own unique character. The industrial district might offer a gritty, urban feel, while a residential area could provide a charming, suburban backdrop. For commercial projects, consider how a location's vibe aligns with the brand's identity.

Visit Local Parks and Nature Reserves: Nature offers an endless variety of backdrops. Look for interesting rock formations, bodies of water, or unique foliage.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask: When you're out and about, don't be shy about asking locals for recommendations. They might know about a hidden park or a secret viewpoint that's not on any map.

Consider the Lighting

Lighting is arguably the most important element in photography, and it’s directly tied to your location. A stunning location can look flat and uninteresting in harsh midday sun, while a seemingly mundane spot can be transformed by the warm glow of the "golden hour."

Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The light is soft, warm, and creates long beautiful shadows. This is a favourite for many commercial photographers.

Blue Hour: The period just after sunset and just before sunrise. The sky takes on a deep blue hue, and city lights start to pop. This can be perfect for capturing a dramatic, moody atmosphere.

Overcast Days: Soft, diffused light that is great for portraits. It eliminates harsh shadows and allows for even lighting, which is ideal for product photography and headshots.

Midday Sun: Can be challenging due to harsh shadows and high contrast. However, it can be used creatively for high-key or high-contrast shots and can be managed with professional lighting equipment.

Think About Accessibility and Permits

For a commercial photographer, this step is non-negotiable. Once you've found a potential location, you need to do your due diligence.

Accessibility: How will you and your team get there? Is there parking for multiple vehicles? Is the location accessible for all your gear, including lighting stands, tripods, and reflectors? Is there a safe and secure place for models or clients to change?

Safety: Is the location safe? Are there any potential hazards? You have a responsibility to your client and your team to ensure the environment is secure.

Permits & Regulations: This is a big one. Many public and private locations require a permit for commercial photography. Check with the city, park authorities, or property owners to avoid any legal issues. A quick phone call or email can save you a lot of trouble and potential fines.

Create a Location Library

As you discover new locations, keep a log of them. You can use a simple spreadsheet or a dedicated app. For each location, include:

Name & Address: The name of the location and its exact address.

Notes: A brief description of the location, what kind of photos it's suitable for, and any unique features.

Best Time to Shoot: Notes on the lighting and time of day that work best.

Accessibility: Information on parking, permits, and any other relevant details.

By creating a location library, you'll have a ready-made list of options for future projects, saving you time and effort.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect photography location is a blend of research, exploration, and a little bit of luck. It's about seeing the world with a photographer's eye, looking beyond the obvious, and finding the unique stories that a location can tell. At Hawk Media Services, we've helped countless clients find the perfect backdrop for their brand and vision. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a new commercial photographer, we're here to help you turn your creative vision into a stunning reality. Happy scouting!