Before setting out for a location scout, I always have a goal or an idea of a story in mind that I want to tell. I never feel bound by the locations, they’re simply backdrops that help tell a greater story. I scout for artistic possibilities as well as logistical attributes. I always write out a check list and make copies to bring with me for each location. This helps me build a reference notebook on when and what specific areas of my favorite locations will work for my clients.
On the artistic side, I look for the following:
*a variety of vegetation that is pretty and enhances a portrait
*architectural features that can be used in the background such as old porches, fences, stone walls, winding dirt roads, old buildings or run down barns
*long vistas, such as acres of fields or a beach that add a beautiful softness and depth to a portrait.
*most importantly, I look for beautiful sunlight and shaded areas.
On the logistical end of things I am sure to be aware of the following:
*what kind of ground surface will my clients be walking on - if we have to walk a ways on dirt roads with lots of pebbles then I need to recommend an extra pair of sturdy shoes or boots.
*Sometimes there is that one spot in a field that has the perfect vista, sun angle, tall grass but also poison ivy. Always best to have tall rain or cowboy boots on hand for that occassion.
*what type of insects do I need to be aware of for certain times of the year, for example, the month of June and part of July I avoid a certain beach due to it's bizzare, isolated prevalance of greenhead flies. These flies are aggressive and they bite. For other woodsey areas, there is a time of day in the summer that I am careful about mosquitoes, always best to have repellent on hand.
*Is there somewhere to change or use the bathroom. Do we have plenty of parking, esp at popular summer beaches.
*Do we need a permit, special permission or a membership to access a site.
Below are some examples of my very favorite locations in my area. They are so amazingly beautiful and an absolute joy to spend time in every one of them!
{Stephanie Rosseel is an award-winning photographer based on the North Shore in Beverly, Massachusetts. She specializies in businesss and website photography, high school senior portraits, and architectural photography. Follow Stephanie on Instagram @stephanierosseelphotography}
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