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What are your best photography location scouting techniques and tips?
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As someone who does a lot of portrait and landscape work, photography location scouting has become a huge part of my process. Finding the right location can make or break a shoot, but it's not always easy, especially when you're working in unfamiliar areas.
I use a combination of online research (Google Earth, Instagram location tags, photography forums) and physical scouting, but I'm always looking to improve my photography location scouting techniques. Things like checking sun position at different times of day, looking for interesting backgrounds, considering accessibility and permits, and having backup locations.
What are your go to photography location scouting methods? How far in advance do you typically scout locations? Any tools or apps you find particularly helpful for photography location scouting?
For photography location scouting, I use a combination of digital and physical methods. Google Earth is amazing for getting a bird's eye view and checking sun direction at different times. The Photographer's Ephemeris app shows exactly where the sun and moon will be at any time.
When physically scouting, I look for:
- Multiple angles and perspectives
- Background options (clean vs textured)
- Light quality at different times
- Accessibility and parking
- Potential hazards or restrictions
- Bathroom availability (important for long shoots!)
I usually scout at least a week before a shoot, and I always have a backup location in mind.
Instagram location tags and hashtags are great for photography location scouting. Search for locations you're considering and see what other photographers have done there. This gives you ideas for angles and compositions.
Also, don't just scout for the perfect" spot. Look for areas with variety - maybe a open field, some trees, an architectural element, and water all within walking distance. This gives you options during the shoot if something isn't working.
Take test shots during your scouting trip at the same time of day as your planned shoot. This shows you exactly what the light will look like.
For urban photography location scouting, I check:
- Permit requirements (some cities require permits for professional shoots)
- Foot traffic patterns (busy vs quiet times)
- Reflection opportunities (windows, puddles)
- Architectural details
- Safety considerations
I use a notes app to document everything: GPS coordinates, best times to shoot, parking info, contact person if permits are needed, and of course, lots of reference photos.
Also, build relationships with property owners. Having permission to shoot at certain locations regularly is invaluable. Be professional, clean up after yourself, and they'll often welcome you back.
One photography location scouting technique I use: look for locations that work in different weather conditions. A spot that's beautiful in sunshine might be miserable in rain, but another location might look amazing with moody, overcast skies.
Also, consider the client's comfort if you're shooting portraits. Is there shade if it's hot? Shelter if it rains? Seating for breaks? These practical considerations affect the quality of the shoot.
I keep a location library" on my phone - categorized by type (urban, natural, industrial, etc.), time of day they work best, and seasonality. This saves time when planning shoots.
For landscape photography location scouting, I use topographic maps to understand the terrain. Apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails show elevation changes, water sources, and trails.
I also research:
- Wildflower blooms (timing varies by elevation)
- Fall color progression
- Water flow (some waterfalls dry up in summer)
- Astronomical events (milky way position, meteor showers)
- Tide schedules for coastal shots
Sometimes the best photography location scouting happens in the off-season. Visiting a location when it's not at its peak helps you understand the underlying structure without distractions.
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