1. Subject & Story:
* Personality and Style: Match the location to your subject's personality. Are they edgy and modern? Consider graffiti walls and industrial areas. Are they sophisticated and classic? Look for elegant architecture or historic districts.
* Narrative: What story are you trying to tell? Are you aiming for a candid, "slice of life" feel? A bustling market or busy street might be perfect. Are you going for a more conceptual or dramatic shot? Look for locations that create mood and visual interest.
* Wardrobe: Think about the colors and style of clothing your subject will be wearing. Will the background complement or clash? For instance, a brightly colored dress might pop against a neutral, concrete wall.
2. Visual Elements:
* Architecture:
* Scale: Consider the scale of the buildings. Tall skyscrapers can create a sense of awe and drama, while smaller buildings can feel more intimate.
* Lines and Shapes: Look for interesting lines (horizontal, vertical, diagonal) and shapes (triangles, circles, squares) that can add visual interest and guide the viewer's eye. Staircases, bridges, and window patterns are good examples.
* Texture: Brick walls, weathered metal, peeling paint, and concrete all offer unique textures that can add depth and character.
* Color: Pay attention to the colors of the buildings. Are they neutral or vibrant? Do they complement your subject's skin tone and wardrobe?
* Style: Choose architectural styles that align with your desired aesthetic – modern, art deco, Victorian, etc.
* Light:
* Time of Day: The golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides warm, soft light that is generally flattering. The blue hour (just before sunrise and after sunset) offers a cooler, more atmospheric light. Midday sun can be harsh and create unflattering shadows, but can be used creatively in some instances.
* Direction: Observe how the light falls on the buildings and streets. Is it direct or diffused? Is it coming from the front, side, or back? Side lighting can create dramatic shadows, while backlighting can create a soft, ethereal look.
* Reflections: Look for reflections in windows, puddles, or metal surfaces. These can add an extra layer of visual interest.
* Shadows: Use shadows creatively to add depth, drama, and mystery.
* Artificial Light: Streetlights, neon signs, and window lights can add a unique ambiance, especially at night.
* Leading Lines: Roads, sidewalks, fences, and building edges can be used as leading lines to guide the viewer's eye to your subject.
* Depth of Field: Consider how you want to use depth of field. A shallow depth of field (blurry background) will isolate your subject, while a wide depth of field (sharp background) will show more of the environment.
* Composition: Apply composition techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, symmetry, and negative space to create visually appealing images.
* Background Clutter: Be mindful of distractions in the background, such as trash cans, signs, or busy crowds. Try to minimize clutter or use it creatively.
3. Practical Considerations:
* Accessibility: Is the location easy to access? Are there parking restrictions or fees? If shooting with models, is it convenient for them to get there?
* Permits: Check if you need a permit to shoot in the location, especially for commercial shoots. Parks, public spaces, and private property may require permits.
* Safety: Is the location safe, especially at night? Be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
* Crowds: How crowded is the location? Will you have to contend with a lot of people walking through your shot? Consider shooting early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
* Noise: Be aware of the ambient noise levels. Loud traffic or construction noise can be distracting.
* Weather: Check the weather forecast and be prepared for changes. Rain, wind, or extreme temperatures can impact your shoot.
* Proximity to Other Amenities: Consider the availability of restrooms, cafes, or other amenities that might be needed during the shoot.
Examples of Urban Landscape Types for Portraits:
* Industrial Areas: Factories, warehouses, train yards – offer gritty textures and a sense of history.
* Modern Architecture: Sleek buildings, glass facades, geometric shapes – create a contemporary feel.
* Historic Districts: Cobblestone streets, old buildings, charming details – evoke a sense of nostalgia.
* Parks and Gardens: Green spaces, trees, flowers – provide a natural contrast to the urban environment.
* Street Art/Graffiti Walls: Vibrant colors, bold designs, edgy atmosphere – perfect for a street style look.
* Bridges and Overpasses: Strong lines, architectural interest, vantage points – offer unique perspectives.
* Alleys and Backstreets: Hidden gems, interesting textures, intimate settings – create a sense of discovery.
* Busy Streets and Markets: Dynamic energy, candid moments, urban chaos – capture the vibrancy of city life.
Tips for Scouting Locations:
* Explore: Take the time to explore different areas of your city. Walk around, drive around, and look for hidden gems.
* Online Research: Use Google Maps, Instagram, Pinterest, and other online resources to find potential locations. Search for hashtags like #urbanphotography, #streetphotography, or #[yourcity]photography.
* Visit at Different Times of Day: See how the light changes at different times of the day. A location that looks great in the morning might not be as appealing in the afternoon.
* Take Test Shots: Take test shots with your camera to see how the location looks through the lens. Experiment with different angles and compositions.
* Keep a List: Keep a running list of potential locations, along with notes about their pros and cons.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose urban landscapes that will enhance your portrait photography and create stunning, memorable images. Good luck!