Of course, as a commercial photographer, a big part of my role is taking photos. But another important element of the commercial photography process is location scouting. The right setting can make or break your shoot, influencing the mood, aesthetics, and impact of your images. Whether you’re shooting photography for an advertising campaign or an editorial spread, the location you choose can set the stage for success.
Here, I’m going to chat through the art of location scouting and give some helpful hints for finding the perfect setting for commercial photo shoots.
The importance of location
I really can’t stress enough how important location is in a commercial photography. Your choice of setting has impact on factors such as:
Brand identity:
The location should align with a brand’s image and message. As a simple example: a luxury brand may opt for an upscale, urban setting, while an eco-friendly brand may prefer a natural, outdoor location.
Setting the mood:
The ambiance of your chosen location will impact the mood of the photographs. A beach setting is great for creating a sense of relaxation and leisure, while an industrial space invokes a sense of modernity and innovation.
Telling a story:
Locations can tell a story or create a narrative for commercial photography. Your location should be a tool that enhances and complements the concept of the shoot and helps to create a story.
The location scouting process
So, how do you find the perfect location?
Firstly, you need to define your project’s needs. A good commercial photographer always starts by understanding the requirements of the project. What are the client’s objectives and the concept for the shoot? Is it a fashion shoot, a product shoot, website photography, company headshots, or something else entirely? Understanding the purpose and goals of the shoot is crucial, as this will guide the location. For example, if it’s website photography, you may want to show off your office space and demonstrate your team at work.
The next step is to research potential locations that fit the project’s needs. Once you have a shortlist of potential locations, it’s time to scout them in person. Pay attention to the lighting, angles, and accessibility. Keep an eye out for any potential challenges, such as permits required for the location.
Professional commercial photographers will also consider the logistics involved in the shoot. Think about:
– how you will transport equipment to the location
– Is there adequate parking
– are there amenities for models and crew
You also need to ensure that you have the necessary permissions and permits to shoot at your chosen location. This is especially important for shooting in public spaces or on private property.
Of course, budget is always an important consideration. Before confirming a location, understand what the client’s budget is for the shoot, and factor in the cost of the location into the overall budget. Some locations may have rental fees, and you’ll need to account for these expenses.
Commercial photography top tip:
One of my top tips as a commercial photographer is that you need to be prepared to adapt. Weather, lighting conditions, and other unforeseen factors can affect your choice of location. Have backup locations or contingency plans in case your primary choice falls through. For example, you may be planning to shoot company headshots outside, but the day of the shoot turns out to be a rainy one! Instead, check out the office space to see if there’s an area that could work. Don’t forget that even totally empty rooms can work: consider blurring the background for a creative take on a traditional headshot.
Professional Commercial Photographer in Manchester and Cheshire
If you think that your business could benefit from working with a professional commercial photographer, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m a commercial photographer based in Manchester and Cheshire, and work with businesses across Manchester and the North West, as well as further afield.
