Capturing captivating visuals that represent your brand is a powerful investment in your business growth. But before we get down to the fun part of shooting brand photos, there’s one crucial question we need to answer: where is the ideal location for your brand photos?

For those working from home, running online businesses, or simply lacking a dedicated workspace, choosing a location can feel daunting. You might have your heart set on a specific spot, but if it clashes with your brand message or lacks good lighting, it might not be the best choice.

Let’s face it,  the right location can truly elevate your photos from “meh” to “wow”. This guide is here to equip you with everything you need to discuss with your brand photographer and to consider when choosing the location that perfectly complements your brand story.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge, there are endless possibilities. We can explore services like Peerspace, HomeStudio List, or even Airbnb to find unique brand-aligned spaces, or fantastic free locations waiting to be discovered. The key is to keep these seven essential factors in mind:

1. Complimentary Aesthetic 

Think of your brand as a person with a distinct personality and style. Does it lean towards neutral tones and earthy vibes? Or maybe you’re all about bold colors and a vibrant energy? Your location should reflect this identity! Imagine a minimalist brand paired with a backdrop of ornate architecture – it would feel jarring, right? Here’s  an example of how to translate your brand aesthetic into location choices:

• Neutral & Earthy: Think clean lines, natural textures like wood and stone, muted colors. Locations like minimalist studios, parks with greenery and open skies, or modern cafes could be perfect.

• Colorful & Bright: Embrace pops of color, fun patterns, and playful textures. Think vibrant murals and backdrops, or even a colorful city street.

2. Variety of Backdrops is Key

When choosing a location, think about maximizing your time. Ideally, you want a place with various backdrops within a close range. This allows us to capture a variety of shots without having to spend precious time traveling between locations. Think cute living room, modern home office, cozy corners, and open spaces bathed in natural light – all in one spot! All seasons of content covered, from headshots close to the fireplace to summer shots in the pool?  This would be a dream, wouldn’t be? 

3. Room for Movement

Let’s be honest, nobody likes static poses! Holding like a statue for more than 5 seconds can feel awkward. That stiffness can translate into the photos, making you look unnatural, don’t you?

 It’s one of the reasons I like capturing my clients in their element and interacting with their surroundings.  This little trick adds a whole new dimension and injects a sense of energy and authenticity that can be lost in static shots.

This is why spacious locations are my jam! Open layouts allow us to experiment with movement shots: a spontaneous dance session, celebrating with confetti, or even just walking purposefully. These types of dynamic images are invaluable for showcasing your brand’s energy and personality.

4. Multiple Seating Areas

Strategic seating options can add a whole new layer of variety to your photos. Imagine a desk for a focused, professional look, a comfy couch for a relaxed chat, or even a playful egg chair for a quirky touch. Think outside the box! Consider dining room tables, kitchen stools, or even poolside chairs (if your brand aligns with that vibe). The more unique and brand-aligned seating options we have at our disposal, the better!

5. Natural Light

Ah, Natural light –  the photographer’s best friend! It is what I always strive for. However, finding a location bathed in beautiful, diffused natural light every second isn’t always realistic. So, even when the location has good natural light, I always carry an off-camera flash – a handy tool for mimicking natural light and adding a touch of brightness when needed. Trust me, it’s so subtle, that you won’t even notice the difference! 

6. Modern furniture and cute props to be borrowed

Let’s face it, cute furniture and brand-appropriate props can seriously elevate a photoshoot! If the location boasts decorative furniture or unique props that align with your brand aesthetic, consider it a win-win. Not only does it save you time and money on sourcing props, but it can also spark creative ideas and add a touch of personality to your photos.

7. Indoor or outdoor

While we’ve explored a variety of factors to consider when selecting a photoshoot location, the age-old question remains: indoor or outdoor? For branding shoots, I often recommend starting with an indoor location. Here’s why:

• Controlled Environment: Indoor spaces offer greater control over lighting, temperature, and background elements. This allows us to ensure consistency throughout the shoot and tailor the environment to perfectly match your brand aesthetic.
• Optimizing Time: Indoor locations often provide a variety of backdrops within a close range, maximizing our time and allowing for a wider range of shots without extensive location hopping.
• Convenience: Let’s face it, indoor shoots can be more convenient, especially when dealing with unpredictable weather conditions or limited timeframes.

Now, this doesn’t mean we have to exclude the beauty of the outdoors entirely! If your brand aligns with a specific natural setting or outdoor activity, incorporating an outdoor location can be a fantastic way to add another dimension to your brand story.  Just like with indoor locations, ensure the outdoor space complements your brand aesthetic. Whether it’s a park, a vibrant city street, or a sun-drenched beach, choose a location that reflects your brand’s personality and resonates with your target audience.

Feeling overwhelmed with all these location possibilities? Your Brand Photographer would be the one to help you choose the perfect location for your brand shoot. 

As a brand photographer in Sacramento, I always scout ideal locations to match my clients’ brand aesthetic and budget and also make them feel confident and comfortable. If you have questions about locations or want to learn more about brand photoshoots, hit the button below, and let’s chat! 

Xo

Geise