How to Pick the perfect location 

One of the most important parts of planning your session is choosing a location that feels right for you. The perfect spot doesn’t have to be grand or trendy—it just needs to reflect who you are and the season of life you’re in right now.

Here’s how to narrow it down and choose a location that feels natural, meaningful, and true to your story.



Start With Inspiration

When booking a session, it’s always helpful to begin with inspiration. Pinterest is your friend here.

Create an album of images you’re drawn to and take note of the common themes:
  • Are most photos outdoors in open fields or nature?
  • Do you gravitate toward cozy, indoor moments?
  • Are the images playful, editorial, quiet, or nostalgic?

Finding these common denominators helps define the vibe you’re after—and gives us a great starting point when planning your shoot.

Choose a Location That Means Something to You

Some of the most meaningful sessions happen in places that already hold memories.

If you’re planning a couples session, think about:

  • Your first date spot
  • A favorite coffee shop or ice cream place
  • A neighborhood you love
  • A place you return to often together

These locations add a layer of storytelling that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

Incorporate an Activity

One of my favorite ways to make a session feel natural is to build it around an activity.

This could look like:
  • Baking pizza together at home
  • Going out for ice cream
  • Cooking, dancing, or listening to music
  • Exploring a favorite place you already love

Activities give you something to do, which helps you relax and interact naturally—resulting in images that feel more like real life than a traditional photoshoot.

Consider the Season

The time of year can play a big role in deciding whether an outdoor or indoor location makes the most sense.

If your session falls during a particularly hot or unpredictable season, an indoor location can be a beautiful option. There are plenty of studio spaces and short-term rentals available that offer clean, cozy, and intentional backdrops for your session.

Just keep in mind that most studios or locations may require an hourly rental fee. I’m always happy to help you explore options and find something that fits both your vision and your budget.

Timing Matters

Timing can completely change the look and feel of your photos.

Ideally, I love to shoot about an hour to an hour and a half before sunset, when the light is soft, warm, and romantic. That said, the weather and time of year always play a role.

On cloudy days, shooting midday can work beautifully, offering soft, even light. Part of my job is reading the light and adjusting plans as needed—part photographer, part weatherman—so flexibility is always greatly appreciated.

Have a Vision (Even a Loose One)

You don’t need to have everything figured out—but having a general vision makes planning so much easier.

Whether it’s:

  • a mood
  • a location type
  • an activity
  • or simply a feeling you want the images to have

That direction helps me suggest locations and guide the session in a way that feels intentional and aligned with you.

I’m Always Here to Help

I’m more than happy to brainstorm location ideas with you, but sessions always come together best when you bring a bit of your own vision to the table. Think about what feels authentic to you and the chapter you’re in—and we’ll build from there.

At the end of the day, the perfect location is one where you feel comfortable, connected, and fully yourself. The rest will fall into place.