1. Consider the Mood and Story:
* What story do you want to tell? Are you going for edgy, romantic, modern, vintage, or something else? The background should complement your subject and their personality.
* What is the overall mood you're aiming for? Bright and cheerful, moody and mysterious, gritty and raw? Think about how the location's elements will contribute to that mood.
* Think about the subject's style: How does their clothing, hair, and overall vibe interact with the potential location? A bright, modern dress might look amazing against a stark concrete wall, while a vintage outfit could be better suited for a charming cobblestone street.
2. Key Location Elements to Look For:
* Texture and Patterns: Brick walls, graffiti art, metal doors, cobblestone streets, patterned sidewalks – these add visual interest and depth.
* Lines and Shapes: Leading lines (roads, fences, architectural details) can draw the viewer's eye to the subject. Geometric shapes (arches, doorways, windows) can create a sense of structure and balance.
* Color Palette: Pay attention to the colors present. Are they complementary to the subject's clothing and skin tone? Consider the impact of contrasting colors (e.g., a red dress against a green wall). Neutral backgrounds can also be effective as they put the focus entirely on the subject.
* Light and Shadow: This is the MOST important factor. Look for areas with interesting light – dappled light under trees, strong directional light through buildings, soft diffused light on an overcast day. Avoid harsh, unflattering light on the subject's face.
* Depth of Field Opportunities: Look for locations where you can create a blurred background (bokeh) using a wide aperture. This helps isolate the subject and draws attention to them.
* Negative Space: Don't underestimate the power of empty space. A clean wall or open area can provide a simple and elegant backdrop.
3. Specific Urban Landscape Types to Consider:
* Architectural Details:
* Buildings: Modern skyscrapers, historic buildings, abandoned warehouses – each offers a unique aesthetic.
* Walls: Brick walls (painted or unpainted), concrete walls, graffiti art, textured walls.
* Doors and Windows: Arched doorways, colorful doors, large windows reflecting light.
* Staircases: Fire escapes, grand staircases, modern staircases.
* Streetscapes:
* Cobblestone Streets: Create a vintage or European feel.
* Alleys: Can be gritty and edgy.
* Crosswalks: Offer dynamic lines and a sense of movement.
* Bridges: Provide interesting perspectives and backgrounds.
* Industrial Areas:
* Factories: Abandoned or active factories can provide a raw and industrial aesthetic.
* Train Yards: Railroad tracks, train cars, and industrial equipment can create a unique backdrop.
* Warehouses: Similar to factories, warehouses offer a sense of history and texture.
* Parks and Green Spaces:
* Urban Parks: Offer a blend of nature and city elements.
* Gardens: Provide colorful and vibrant backgrounds.
* Trees: Dappled light filtering through trees can create a beautiful effect.
* Unique Locations:
* Rooftops: Offer panoramic city views (requires permission and safety precautions).
* Parking Garages: Can provide interesting lines and lighting.
* Construction Sites: (With permission and safety) offer a gritty and urban feel.
4. Practical Considerations:
* Permits and Permission: Some locations may require permits or permission, especially private property or restricted areas.
* Time of Day: The "golden hour" (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) provides warm, soft light that is ideal for portraits. The "blue hour" (shortly before sunrise and after sunset) offers a cool, atmospheric light.
* Safety: Choose locations that are safe and well-lit, especially if shooting alone or at night. Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
* Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the location for both you and your subject.
* Crowds: Choose locations that are not overly crowded, especially if you want to avoid distractions in the background. Consider shooting during off-peak hours.
* Background Distractions: Pay attention to details in the background that might distract from the subject (e.g., trash cans, power lines, parked cars). You can minimize these distractions by changing your angle, using a wider aperture to blur the background, or by physically removing them (if possible and appropriate).
* Scouting: Scout potential locations in advance to assess the light, crowds, and overall suitability for your shoot.
5. Tips for Finding Locations:
* Explore Your City: Walk around and pay attention to interesting details and potential backgrounds.
* Use Location Scouting Apps and Websites: Apps like Location Scout or websites dedicated to finding filming locations can be helpful.
* Social Media: Search for photos tagged with your city or area on Instagram, Pinterest, and other platforms to see what locations other photographers are using.
* Local Community Forums: Ask for recommendations on local photography forums or social media groups.
* Drive Around: Sometimes the best spots are the ones you stumble upon while driving around your city.
In summary:
Choosing the right urban landscape for portrait photography is about finding a location that complements your subject, tells a story, and provides interesting light, texture, and visual elements. By considering the above factors, you can create stunning and memorable portraits. Remember to prioritize safety, obtain necessary permissions, and most importantly, have fun and be creative!