Shoot on Location
Today I am sharing my best tips on how to update your content library by shooting your people and products outside in the fresh air!
Have you always wanted to take photos for your business in the great outdoors? Does the weather or lack of equipment keep you in a creative rut, shooting the same images over and over? Well read on my friend because today we are stepping out into the light! Of course you can hire me to do this for you (it would be my honour 💚 ) but if you want to have a go yourself first, keep these tips in mind:
Plan, Plan, Plan
Consider equipment required
Available light sources
Diversify your composition
First Tip
First Tip is, 'If you fail to plan, you plan to fail'. It can often take a lot of effort to get an outdoor shoot organised, so don't let all that effort go to waste. Here is a checklist to get you started:
Let’s make a plan!
☀️ Visit your chosen location at least once prior to the shoot (or get there early) to fill in the gaps of your plan
☀️ Basics: Where are the closest toilets, do you need a power point, do you need to save a spot, is there parking available?
☀️ Safety: Do you need a stepladder to get above your subject, do you need permission to shoot there, where are you leaving your valuables?
☀️ Help: Can you bring an extra pair of hands so you don't need to go back and forth from the subject to the camera?
☀️ Does this location fit into your Brand strategy aesthetically and ethically?
☀️ What is the weather forecast? 🙄
☀️ Plan out the major images you want to capture, then leave time to play around?
☀️ Pack lots of props or wardrobe changes for variety
☀️ Create a moodboard on your phone with examples of what you hope to capture as a reminder of your inspirations
☀️ Take snacks & water!
Second Tip
Second Tip is what equipment do you need? Literally anything from just your phone to elaborate set ups is an option here depending on your budget and available resources.
Of course phones these days are pretty fantastic and keeping it simple can build relatability with your audience. At the same time, a professional kit can up your sophistication level so keep your Brand (and budget) in mind when making equipment decisions. If you want a basic list, I would start with: Tripod, SLR, Flash and Light Reflector or any combination of these things works well!
Third Tip
Third Tip is lighting. This would usually come first on my list but when you are outside the lighting (the sun) can be a little less reliable than your kitchen ceiling light so you have to plan out the logistics first then have fun with the light later. These are your options out in the world:
1. Direct Sunlight: produces saturated colours and sharp shadows
2. Dappled Sunlight: produces interesting shadows and patterns
3. Full Shade: produces even and diffused light and muted colours
4. Flash: can be used in any of these options. It can come across as less natural but still amazing in some situations
Direct Sunlight
Dappled Shade
Full Shade
Flash in Shade
Fourth Tip
Fourth and final Tip is Composition. It is possible to get four completely different viewpoints in the same location by just taking a few steps around the space. This allows you to make the most of your time and create content that is not repetitive but remains cohesive aesthetically. Your options:
WIDE: Perfect for showing scale, setting the mood and creating leading lines to your focal point.
MEDIUM: Take a few more steps and just point your camera in a slightly different direction. The images will retain similar lighting and colours.
CLOSE: Speaking of close, time for a close up! Block out everything but the immediate background even blur it if you want with portrait mode.
Wide Shot
Medium Wide
Medium Wide
Close Up
We could literally talk all day about this subject but this is enough to get you thinking! Did I miss anything? What would you add in from your experience? Do you have questions from your latest shoot? Comment or email if you want to continue this conversation.
If you are thinking of upskilling in this area (hello, I can totally build a specialised training session for you) or you want to outsource entirely, get in touch today for a quick chat about how I can help! 🖤
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