Hey Annah! How do I pick a location?
There is no doubt it's tough to pick just one or two locations for a photoshoot. Almost all of the clients that email me ask about top rated locations in the area! It can feel hard to pick just one! As a photographer it's important as you experience new or even familiar places to always keep that photographers eye with you! Looking at things through this lens even on my days off has helped me discover some of my favorite photo locations in this area! Once I find a place I like I work with my clients to see if these locations are the right fit, for the job ahead. For you clients out there, it's your job to know what you like (urban, rural, natural, bright, cool, etc). Beyond, that your photographer should be able to offer location ideas and scope out ahead of time the best spots, with great light for your pictures! No matter the lighting situation, the experienced photographer can make most places work, just sometimes it takes a little creativity, cloud cover, and strategic placing to make the shot magic!
Seniors this is for you!
When you're thinking of where to go for a photo shoot, it can be tough to choose just one or two locations to memorialize your big moment! My best advice to photographers is to scope locations out in advance, know what is around you! To clients my best advice is to pick places that are one of two things; either they are meaningful or they offer the background that matches your style! When you think about these timeless photos you want to put up on the walls of your house or even just post on the internet you want them to reflect the places you love and the person you are.
Just looking for that headshot?
When you're working with a photographer to determine a location for headshots you want to make sure it's going to give you a crisp clean photo. Most headshots are going on some social media platform such as LinkedIn. It's important that your headshot shows off who you are while still making you look sharp and professional. For that reason it's best to go with a more cropped image!
Location Breakdown:
I'm here to do what most photographers wouldn't, give away all my secrets! Here are my top 10 locations in Raleigh/Durham!
Raleigh
1) North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA). Just from a quick walk around you will discover a variety of backdrops, from natural spaces to beautifully designed buildings, NCMA has it all. It's perfect for any kind of shoot! I highly recommended for bright headshots, but great for any kind of photo-op.
2) JC Raulston Arboretum. The Arboretum is one of the best kept secrets in all of Raleigh! It's great for any kind of occasion with beautiful flowers and natural settings you'll find a variety of beautiful spots to grab the perfect picture. Located next to the NC Fairgrounds, it is a convenient location for Raleigh and Cary residents.
3) WRAL Gardens. Did you know the WRAL studios close to Downtown Raleigh has a beautifully landscaped garden! It's perfect for individual shots of any variety!
4) Dorothea Dix. You'll quickly realize this list is organized in no particular order. For those of you who know me and have seen my work, you've probably seen a picture from Dorothea Dix. This is one of my favorite places in Raleigh and not just for pictures! It's a fun family friendly location for pictures, but it also offers some excellent views of downtown Raleigh and nature based backdrops that will catch your eye!
5) Boylan Bridge. This is an iconic view of Downtown Raleigh. With gorgeous light and vibrant colors for any kind of photoshoot. Boylan Bridge, provides quick access to Downtown Raleigh for a bite to eat or a quick refreshment before or after your shoot!
6) Legislative Building. On a class field trip I discovered the beauty of the Legislative Building it provides quick access to the museum district and Halifax Mall. It's the perfect location for headshots, and bright, crisp photos!
7) Fred Fletcher Park. Located just outside of Downtown Raleigh lives a sweet little park called Fred Fletcher. It's a great location in the fall in spring, with vibrant colors and fresh blooms. If you're looking to do a shoot in the dead of winter, it might not be your best bet! However, it's a hidden gem in the Raleigh area.
Durham
8) Sarah P Duke Gardens. As a NC State Grad I don't often venture over to Duke University, but you can't help but feel overcome with beauty as you explore the beautiful Duke Gardens. Such beautiful landscape. Whether for your next photoshoot or just a nice stroll around it's worth stopping in and smelling the roses!
9) Duke University. Duke is a great location for photo ops. It offers beautiful stone work and tall beautiful trees for a more gothic backdrop.
10) Downtown Durham. Downtown Durham is currently booming with new development and business. As a result Durham is a vibrant Southern city developing in our midst. Downtown Durham has a variety of locations that are picture worthy. From brilliant rooftop views with amazing scenes to the ballpark as a sporty backdrop. Durham has got it going on!
