Brooks Alberta Photographer - Location: Where Can I Shoot You?

Photography is like real estate - location is crucial!

Spring is upon us and people want to get outside. We're lucky in this area to have some very cool places like Dinosaur Provincial Park, Kinbrook Island Provincial Park, many playgrounds and walking paths, plus some unique spots where I like to shoot. Spring and summer are definitely my favorite seasons and times to get the shutter clicking outside!

There are a few things to think about when choosing a location to shoot at, though.

1. Is it a public or private place? Will you need permission from the landowner to shoot there? Are there additional fees to shoot there? Some places require photographers to pay a fee or surcharge just to shoot on their land. 

2. Is it a legal place to even have a shoot?  I've always been conflicted on the whole 'shoot on the train tracks' idea. For one thing it's dangerous - I'm not a fan of putting my clients in danger! Another good reason is that it's illegal to trespass onto railroad property. It also sets a bad example, illustrating that it's OK for people to walk on the train tracks. Finally, the 'tracks' shot has become as cliche as a black and white image with one colour highlighted. Yes, in some cases, it brings out a romantic feel, but what is the story in this type of image? 

3. What's your Plan B? Shooting outdoors always depends on the weather (obviously), so if things do take a turn for the worse, it's a good idea to have a back-up location. In these cases, I have a few outdoor spots close to my studio that I recommend. That way, if the weather takes control, we can always shoot in the RyKie Photography studio - warm and dry!

4. What time is it? Time of day is another huge factor. I tend to schedule clients according to when the lighting is the best - and it's not high noon on a super sunny day! 

5. Does the background make sense? If you come from a farming or ranching background, having a background on your land or featuring old farm machinery would make sense. If you have a particular hobby, including your gear would also make sense. Sitting in a tractor if you're a city kid might seem kind of odd in comparison! 

An image I absolutely love is a mounted canvas in our home from our wedding. It's a shot of my wife and I sharing a kiss in a vast field and amazing Alberta sky. We were living on the ranch at the time, and it brings back a thousand memories just looking at it. 


If you're interested in images that you'll want to display in your home and evoke the same feelings, contact us for a free consultation!