Scouting the perfect spot for wedding photography requires an eye for art, detail, and lighting. A local photographer knows all the hot spots in and around the area, whereas an adventurous, ambitious destination wedding photographer is always happy to take off to a new place and uncover stunning spaces for an engagement session or a pre wedding shoot. For me I try and incorporate those two methods when I’m scouting for locations.
Often times I won’t get a chance to check out the venue until the day of the wedding but that isn’t a problem at all. Why is that you may ask? Well with all the years of traveling the world and documenting countless weddings I’ve come to a realization. That is, when I come to a new venue or location my creative juices kick in over drive. Seeing a place for the first time is almost better in a lot of cases. For one you are there at the exact time which is good cause weather and lighting are never reliable. Second like I mentioned before when I come to a new place for the first time it is by far the most inspiring moment I experience hands down.
Whether you’re a shutterbug in need of a few helpful tips or an engaged couple eager to discover beautiful places to celebrate your love, Kyle Larson Photography is ready to share the exclusive 411 on finding one-of-a-kind locations for wedding pictures.
Talk It Out
Talking it out can reveal what my couple ultimately wants. A simple discussion or two can reveal everything I’ll want to know about my clients who are about to get married. It doesn’t have to be an in-depth conversation, necessarily. For me as a photographer, I primarily want to get an idea of what the couple likes. Do they prefer indoor spaces over outdoor locations? Are they wild for interesting architecture, or do they love being out in nature?
A Simple Questionnaire
Before I sit down with potential couple I like to ask them a few questions that will allow me to get to know them better. I like to include questions about the individuals and ask about their love story, as well. Seeing the trajectory of their relationship can help me to envision the story they want their photos to tell. By learning about their hobbies, likes and dislikes, and preferences. I’ll not only know which locations to scout, but you’ll also be able to balance what each person expects. For couples who are searching for a photographer, consider completing a questionnaire yourselves to hand out to each prospective provider.
Pick a Spot That’s Personal
You can never go wrong with a personal spot. For both pre wedding shoots and sessions that occur the day of, explore locations that mean something to the newly weds. Obviously, these types of locations differ between couples. They’re dependent on the location, as well. The bride might want to capture photos in a meadow near her childhood church. If they’re eager for a destination wedding in San Francisco because they both adore the city, then a few shots from Golden Gate park are a must.
Select a Memorable Spot
This tip is a bit different than simply choosing a personal spot because it focuses on the couple and their relationship. Once I have met an engaged couple and have found out about their history then I can find out a spot that is memorable to them. That’s another reason why a questionnaire is a handy tool. It should have a section devoted to the development of the couple’s relationship, including meaningful locations that they’ve visited throughout their history together. Some couples choose to have wedding photos taken at the spot where they shared their first kiss or had their first date. The place where one of them popped the question is a popular choice, too. Then again, they may want photos in the area where they went on their first vacation or something similar.
Scout the Background
The immediate background is an essential component that needs to be eye-catching but not overpowering. Don’t discount the importance of the background as a whole, though, especially for outdoor shots. Nothing bland will do. A meadow is a gorgeous backdrop, but there ought to be a hill, a shapely tree, or the remains of an old structure somewhere in the distance. From the mountains to the shore, a skilled destination wedding photographer can find an array of scenic backgrounds. Spend the time doing so because they’re crucial, even if they only play a small part in the larger picture.