I. Before You Go: Planning & Preparation
* Define Your Vision:
* Client Brief/Concept: What is the purpose of the portrait? What feeling are you trying to evoke? Is it corporate, casual, artistic, romantic, etc.? Discuss these ideas with your client beforehand.
* Style/Mood Board: Create a mood board with images that represent the desired aesthetic (lighting, color palettes, posing, overall feel). This will inform your location choices.
* Subject's Personality: Consider the subject's personality, hobbies, and interests. A location that reflects them will make the portrait more authentic.
* Practical Considerations: Factor in the client's preferences, accessibility needs (if any), and budget.
* Research Online (First Pass):
* Google Maps/Earth: Use street view to get a general sense of the area, identify potential landmarks, and check for nearby parking.
* Instagram/Pinterest: Search for location tags and hashtags related to your area and desired aesthetic. See how other photographers have used the locations. Look at *popular* locations and then see if you can find something *similar* but less used.
* Photography Blogs/Websites: Many blogs feature location guides specific to cities or regions.
* Permit Requirements: Check if you need permits to shoot in public parks, private properties, or on specific landmarks. Start this early, as permits can take time to acquire.
* Make a Preliminary List: Based on your online research, create a list of 2-3 potential locations that seem promising.
* Gather Your Scouting Gear:
* Camera (Phone or DSLR): For taking reference photos.
* Lens (Wide Angle & Standard): To see how different lenses will work.
* Notebook/Phone for Notes: To record observations, ideas, and potential challenges.
* Light Meter (Optional): If you're serious about controlling light, a light meter can be invaluable.
* Sun Tracker App (e.g., Sun Surveyor, PhotoPills): Essential for understanding sun position at different times of day.
* Water/Snacks: Scouting can take time, especially if you're exploring multiple locations.
* Comfortable Shoes: You'll likely be doing a lot of walking.
II. On-Site Scouting: What to Look For
* Time of Day:
* Light is King: Visit the location at the *time* you plan to shoot, or as close as possible. Light changes dramatically throughout the day.
* Golden Hour: Observe how the light looks during the golden hour (the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset).
* Midday Sun: Assess how the location handles harsh midday sun. Is there shade available?
* Cloud Cover: Consider how different levels of cloud cover will affect the lighting. Overcast days can provide soft, even light.
* Light Quality & Direction:
* Natural Light: Observe the direction and quality of the natural light. Is it direct, diffused, or reflected?
* Ambient Light: Pay attention to the ambient light (e.g., streetlights, building lights) if you're shooting at dusk or night.
* Shadows: Analyze where shadows fall and how they affect the scene. Look for interesting shadow patterns.
* Reflectors: Identify potential reflective surfaces that could be used to bounce light onto your subject (e.g., white walls, windows).
* Background & Composition:
* Clean Backgrounds: Look for backgrounds that are uncluttered and visually appealing, or at least easily blurred with a wide aperture.
* Interesting Textures/Patterns: Consider backgrounds with interesting textures (brick walls, weathered wood, foliage) or patterns (geometric designs).
* Leading Lines: Identify any leading lines (e.g., roads, fences, pathways) that can draw the viewer's eye toward your subject.
* Depth of Field: Think about how you can use depth of field to create separation between your subject and the background.
* Color Palette: Analyze the colors in the background and how they complement or contrast with your subject's clothing and skin tone.
* Practical Considerations:
* Accessibility: How easy is it to get to the location? Is there parking nearby? Is it wheelchair accessible?
* Permits: Double-check the permit requirements and confirm you have the necessary permissions.
* Crowds: How crowded is the location at the time you plan to shoot? Can you work around the crowds, or is it too disruptive?
* Safety: Is the location safe for you, your subject, and your equipment? Be aware of potential hazards (e.g., traffic, uneven surfaces, crime).
* Noise Levels: Consider the ambient noise levels. Can you still communicate with your subject easily?
* Power Outlets: If you need to use artificial lighting, check for available power outlets. Bring extension cords and/or battery packs if necessary.
* Wind: Consider the wind conditions. Will it affect your subject's hair or clothing? Will you need to use a reflector or a windbreak?
* Restrooms: Are restrooms available nearby? This is important for longer shoots.
* Potential Challenges & Solutions:
* Identify problems: Make a list of potential problems at each location, such as harsh light, distracting backgrounds, or accessibility issues.
* Brainstorm solutions: Come up with creative solutions to overcome these challenges, such as using reflectors, diffusers, changing your shooting angle, or using post-processing techniques.
III. During the Scouting Trip: Taking Notes & Photos
* Take Test Photos: Take photos with your phone or camera from different angles and perspectives. Capture details of the background, lighting, and potential compositions.
* Record Observations: Write down your observations about the light, background, accessibility, and any potential challenges. Use a notebook or your phone's notes app.
* Sun Tracking: Take note of where the sun is at specific times and how it affects the location. Use a sun tracking app to predict future sun positions.
* Document Everything: Take pictures and detailed notes. Include the time of day you visited the location in your notes.
IV. After Scouting: Analysis & Decision Making
* Review Your Photos & Notes: Carefully review all the photos and notes you took during the scouting trip.
* Compare Locations: Compare the pros and cons of each location.
* Consider Alternatives: Be prepared to adjust your plan if your first choice doesn't work out. Have backup locations in mind.
* Make a Shot List: Based on your scouting trip, create a shot list that outlines the specific shots you want to capture at each location.
* Finalize Your Plan: Once you've made your decision, finalize your plan and communicate it to your client.
Tips for Success:
* Be flexible: Things don't always go according to plan. Be prepared to adapt to changing conditions.
* Be creative: Look for unique and unexpected elements that can add visual interest to your portraits.
* Be respectful: Obey all rules and regulations when shooting in public places. Respect private property.
* Communicate: Keep your client informed of your progress and any changes to the plan.
* Practice: The more you scout, the better you'll become at identifying great portrait locations.
* Visit at Different Times of the Year: A location might look stunning in the fall with colorful foliage, but be barren in the winter. Consider seasonal changes.
* Embrace the Unexpected: Sometimes the best shots come from unexpected discoveries during the shoot.
By following these steps, you can effectively scout for portrait shooting locations and create stunning images that capture the essence of your subject and your vision. Good luck!