Importance of Time & Location

Let’s start with step one.

The first thing we start to plan before we officially book together is a date and time that we can come together for the photoshoot. Because once we have figured out that, we can start to really plan the rest of the details of a photoshoot that is uniquely yours.

So Lets Talk Time of Day

I say this almost every time that I am in the booking process with an inquiry; “it is preferred that we choose a time that is closer to sunrise or sunset.” And you may wonder why? And no, it’s not only to try and catch a golden hour (unless that is distinctly what you’re going for).

So there is this really important thing when it comes to photography, and it is lighting. And the problem is that the only light source that comes from natural lighting is the sun itself. There is always the usage of our own lights and flashes but nothing ever compares to the power of the sun. And for that exact reason, I will always stay away from doing portrait sessions during noon. I can definitely work around it but on a really sunny day, it is definitely not ideal.

And it’s as simple as this:

Think about when you are outside during noon on a very sunny day. Without any sort of shade, take a picture of yourself and you will see that the lighting is very harsh. This applies to your portrait sessions! Think of those films where they are telling a scary story as they hold the flash under their faces, a harsh light coming from directly below; it’s not so different.

Ideally you want the sun to come from a similar level as yourself. For example, when you use your light on your vanity putting on your makeup in the morning, the lights tend to surround your face at a similar level. By having the light at a certain angle, you can fill in the shadows on your face; making a more flattering look! This is one of the keys to portrait photography and something I as a photographer am looking out for when booking your session.

Choosing The Location

The location itself tells a very important part of the storytelling of your photo session. What usually happens is once we choose a date and time of day; we begin to scout out a spot that works the best.

It’s very tempting to choose a location that is familiar and well known. A place you find is the prettiest. I mean who wouldn’t? But going forward, I want to learn the stories of those i’m photographing and take pictures that are like a film. To do this; the set is very important. It represents a part of your story, and sometimes we have to try something a little different to capture what is uniquely yours.

Let’s be hypothetical for a sec. Let’s say you come to me and tell me all about how you and your partner met at work together at your workplace. You enjoy getting out and exploring new hobbies together and have found a love in going on walks and gardening. Knowing this, I would recommend places that have lots of foliage and somewhere to go on a walk. Maybe even in the garden you have together itself. Taking pictures that a gorgeous and playful interacting with the garden and your garden gear. Or, we could go a different route and take pictures that are more corporate! Professional but flirty, reenacting the moment that you guys met and creating beautiful portraits that represent your unique story. This would require a location more concrete and structurally beautiful. Not necessarily in an office in a literal sense but somewhere that compliments the story taking place.

If you are seeking someone who is looking to get to know you and capture not just pictures, but a story. The feeling of being in a film. I’m your girl!

I can’t wait to get to capture beautifully unique moments!

Have a weird day!

Chloe Conlin