Blog Photography 101: Finding Locations to Shoot Photos
Since blogging and social media are both so image focused, capturing unique content in cool places that fit your overall aesthetic/vibe can be one of the most stressful components of the field. No matter where you’re from, it’s easy to feel like everything has already been done and all the “cute” places in your town have been overly captured my fellow creators. Today’s post is on Blog Photography 101 sharing how to find the best locations to shoot photos and how to turn a location that feels like nothing into something.
I’m going to rant for a second… getting cute photos for my Instagram and blog STRESSES ME OUT sometimes — like, WAY more than I’d even want to admit! I’m such a visual person, so if I feel like things aren’t looking how I want them to with what feels like maximum effort, it’s hard for me not to just shut down and give up. I’ve had plenty of days where nothing seems to be working, the lighting is bad, the colors are off and I’m not looking my best. When I feel like my shots are boring and I’m not feeling creative enough to come up with something new, I feel super stagnant and frustrated with myself. Since I know it’s so easy to feel this way, I thought sharing a post like this would be beneficial for those looking to start a blog or those of us already in the thick of it that are feeling stuck creatively.
ELEMENTS OF A GREAT PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION
Finding the spot. This all depends on what your aesthetic and overall vibe is, but there are some specific things we can all look for when composing a photo that is as pretty as it is interesting.
Lighting
I’m sure you’ve heard this thousands of times, but lighting is the #1 key element of every good photo. Again, this depends on your aesthetic, but generally you want to avoid direct sunlight since it brings along unwanted harsh shadows. I usually like to find a shaded spot on a sunny day since I like capturing warm, somewhat bright images with light colors.
Your go-to colors
To create a cohesive theme, make sure each photo includes colors that fit your aesthetic to help things flow. You instantly look 10x more legit when your images and content runs together seamlessly. This can be most easily done by finding a location that already have the colors present, but alternatively, programs like Lightroom and Photoshop can help you alter the colors to better fit your theme. I’d be happy to do a separate blog post on editing if you guys would like to see that! Let me know!
Something interesting to capture the eye
Whether you want your outfit, a product or the scenery to be the focus (or a combo of all three), choose a location that compliments that. It seems like everyone (I say this very loosely) is a relatively good photographer these days thanks to all the resources, presets, etc. that are out there, so including something in the photo that captures the eye will help your image stand out online. I always like to add a prop or something to hold to make the photo different, like a new bag, ice cream cone, drink, etc. — this helps with posing too since it gives you something to do so you don’t feel as awkward. You can also add graphic design elements in Photoshop or other editing programs to make your images even more unique.
PLACES TO SHOOT PHOTOS
Cool walls
I know this is SO cliche, but photos taken text to cool, interesting walls or building always end up being some of my favorites. This helps to add detail to your images through colors and patterns, making your image pop amongst the others online.
Parks and gardens
If you’re looking for a pretty, natural backdrop, consider shooting at a park or garden. Justin and I did a picnic photo shoot one day last summer at a local park and those photos are still some of my favorite ones to date! I like standing on a sidewalk or between trees to create some natural lines in the photo that help draw the eye.
Cars
Random, but I find images shot next to classic cars to be a fun twist to add to your images. There’s an orange one parked near where I live and I always love how my photos with it turn out. You can also take photos of you sitting in your car with the door open for a lifestyle shot showing your outfit because I know just standing somewhere can get boring sometimes!
Restaurants and boutiques
Small, local spots like this are often well thought out design wise, so this is somewhere different to snap some pics. If you explore your town, chances are you’ll find one that fits your personality and adds a little something extra to your images.
Streets and alleys
Photos taken at low-traffic spots downtown can add a fun streetwear vibe, plus it’s a great way to show off your city! I’ve been meaning to venture to downtown Indy for quite some time now to get some outfit shots because I think they’d be such a fun addition to my blog.
TIPS
Don’t over think it
This is absolutely easier said than done, but really, capturing a great photo isn’t as complex as you may be making it in your head. I’m so guilty of stressing out over getting the perfect shot, while other times I’m totally chill, snap a few pics and they turn out being amazing. I end up loving the photos way more when I don’t put so much pressure on myself and just have fun.
Get inspired
If you’re really feeling stuck, do something that helps you feel more motivated and inspired. Whether it’s taking some time to yourself, browsing your favorite Pinterest boards or talking with friends in the same profession as you, open your eyes to knew locations and photo styles that will get you excited about your work again. Trust me, it happens to all of us!
__________
What are your favorite locations to shoot photos at? What helps keep you inspired? If there are any other specific blog or social media-related posts you like to see from me here, please let me know and I’d be happy to do them. Thanks so much for stopping by & have an amazing day!
