How To Find Brand Photoshoot Locations

Brand photoshoot locations are another key part to taking control of your brand content. I remember the first time I tried to look for good photoshoot spots. I definitely Googled it and was surprised by how little I found. It felt so frustrating. If you are feeling confused on where to find the perfect location, keep reading!

This blog post will break down how to choose the right locations for your brand shoot. We talk about where to find locations and what you need to consider before making your final selections. Let’s dive in!

 

Set Your Expectations

#1 – YOUR BRAND STYLE

It’s important to keep your brand style in mind and look for places that match your vibe and esthetic. For example, let’s say you have more a of a minimal style with lots of white space. You will want to look for places with white walls, minimal decor and neutral hues that match your brand color esthetic.

Minimal Style: Minimal Style Home Near Joshua Tree, CA

 

#2 – THE RIGHT LIGHTING

A big part of getting the shots you want is the lighting situation at your brand photoshoot locations. A great brand photographer can always bring in studio lighting to get things to look perfect, but it’s always good to look for natural light as well.

• Look for places with white walls, as those will help reflect the best light on you.
• Look for big windows and doors, this will help bring in a lot of extra light.
• When in doubt, ask your photographer for recommendations or reach out to the location owner and ask for their opinion on the best light options and timing.

Big Windows & White Walls: Bright & Airy in Los Angeles, CA

*Bonus tip! In the northern hemisphere stable, north facing windows bring in the most stable light throughout the day. The light will be the same during daylight. We want bright light but not light coming in directly for more light & airy photos.

 

#3 – SOME VARIETY

The number one concern from my clients when choosing locations and wardrobe is variety. You can find a lot of variety in a single location if there are a number of rooms, different backdrops and outdoor space.

• Look for indoor locations with a few rooms that have a similar esthetic but look different.
• Look for locations with close proximity to fun outdoor spaces or their own outdoor space.

Lots of Rooms, Props & Backdrops: Variety Space in Oakland, CA

 

Browse Different Options

#1 – PEERSPACE & AIRBNB*

Now let’s get down to where to find these brand photoshoot location gems. First, you want to browse sites like Peerspace or Airbnb.

• Come up with a list of 2-3 options you love and compare.
• On Peerspace you can filter by style to help you stay on brand.
• Check the date availability and reach out to owner if you are unsure.
• Reach out to the host with questions, especially on Airbnb.

Teal lover’s paradise Fun teal vibes in Palm Springs, CA

*Always get permission in writing from the host before booking an Airbnb for a photoshoot. Some owners are totally fine with photoshoots, some charge more for photoshoots and some simply don’t allow it. For Peerspace rentals, it is generally clear that you will be using this for a photoshoot and the same level of permission may not be needed.

 

#3 – INSTAGRAM & PINTEREST

For dreamy outdoor locations, fun hotels or coffee shops social media might be your best choice. I often bookmark photos in locations I want to try out and save them for later. You can also search using hashtags and geotags on Instagram.

• Use the location of the photoshoot as a hashtag to see if any interesting locations come up.
• Find influencers in the area and see if they have any fun location ideas.
• Look for blog posts on Pinterest with Instagramable locations in your area.

Check out these ideas on Pinterest in the Palm Springs area & San Francisco Bay Area

 

Consider the Following

#1 – PERMISSION & PERMITS

For some outdoor locations, especially national or local parks, there can be a permit process to legally do a photoshoot there. You will want to make sure you reach out and get all the permits in line.

• Do a Google search to find out if permits are required.
• Look on their website or send the location an email.
• Always ask an Airbnb host if they allow photoshoots and get it in writing.

 

#1 – TRAVEL TIME

Many brand photoshoots include at least 2-3 location options. So when choosing your locations you want to think about the travel time between each location.

• Think about the traffic situation, how long will it take to commute to each place?
• Come up with a few options and then narrow it down based on timing.

 

Nailing Your Brand Photoshoot Locations

I know this might seem like a lot to consider, but it taking control of your brand photoshoot locations helps you stay on top of your brand’s consistency. If this all feels too overwhelming, always reach out to your photographer. It’s important to get a space you feel good about. They often have a ton of ideas and have shot in many locations, use them as a resource.

Let me know if you are struggling with ideas, I’m always happy to help brainstorm.