Est. 2012 | Colorado Springs, Colorado and Charlottesville, Virginia wedding & family photographer

There are some clients who know where and what time of year they want their photos done. That’s great! For those who don’t know where they want their photos taken is very common because there is so much out there. I love helping my clients narrow down the ideal location for their portrait backdrop because they are right, there is SO much out there!!! I use the same system with my engagement couples as I do with my portrait clients and thought I would share it on the blog today. 🙂

When it comes to a lifestyle portrait client, I always make sure that I have room in my calendar to photograph their session. After we figure a date, we discuss location if we haven’t nailed that topic down yet. If they don’t have a clue where they want to do their portraits, I send them over a general list of backdrops to choose from. From there, I can really help narrow down an exact location!

Beach
City

Christmas Tree Farm

College

Destination

Estate

Farm / Country

Field

Garden

Historic

Lake

Nautical

Old Town

Orchard

Park

Rustic

Scenic / Views

Seasonal

Winery

Woods

Once they tell me their favorite type of backdrop, I give them a list of suggestions on a specific location that meets their vision. I love this way of going about finding their portrait location because together, we are finding their most comfortable backdrop. This is key! I would never want a client of mine to be in the city if they aren’t the city type. Since I give them this list of backdrop ideas, they have the time to discuss and figure out what speaks to who they are as a couple, family, etc. I want my clients to feel free in their own environment so I have found great success doing this and being active with my clients if they want me to. Otherwise, if they have a significant location in mind that is also great because again, I want to photograph at a place that means something to them and in a space they are comfortable. 🙂

I hope this helps you figure out your ideal backdrop for a portrait session! Portrait season starts this week for my calendar year! Wohoo!!!