Unlikely Location Ideas
that are often free!
Anywhere can be a location! Heck! I’ve created locations out of literal trash (sometimes the doors they use to hide dumpsters are actually pretty cool looking!). The trick is to think outside the box, and simply know where to look.
With that in mind, here are some of my more unusual go-to’s when deciding on new locations. Insider tip: most of these locations are shared, public spaces. Be courteous and try to plan shoots on days/times that may be less crowded. This makes for a less stressful shoot for you, and a better all around experience for others that are there to enjoy the space for more traditional purposes (like shopping or relaxing).
Coffee shops.
Trendy, on the go work spaces… what’s not to love!? Just make sure to ask permission first and offer to tag the location in anything you post on social media. Also, if you’re planning to use a public location like this, ask them when they are least busy so you can plan a time to shoot that won’t disrupt the rest of their business.
Location: Rival Coffee
Apartment complexes.
I have shot a few different apartment complexes and I have to say, I love it! If the apartment is on any sort of high rise structure, usually you can get up high and take some photos with a grand, scenic backdrop. Or, just utilize the beautifully well-kept landscape, fountains, and other perfectly manicured aspects of apartment living. Disclaimer, I have never taken advantage of these locations without knowing someone who actually lives there. To play it safe, make sure you know someone who is a resident and have them accompany you on the shoot and ask permission before shooting here.
Shopping centers and outdoor malls.
These locations may require you to purchase a permit for commercial photography and videography. But as long as you keep open communication with these sites, they can be really fun to shoot at! Places like Irvine Spectrum or the Temecula Mall not only offer you a chance to take advantage of the well thought out scenery, it also affords you the chance to utilize props (think giant pretzels or juices) and take some really fun lifestyle photos!
Murals… with a twist.
Using beautiful murals to shoot at is a no-brainer. They’re an easy way to take attention grabbing pictures - perfect in today’s social media driven world! But, while visiting these murals, make sure to look around. What else do you see? Oftentimes, these murals are placed in locations that in and of themselves are incredibly rad! The perfect example would be Old Town Redlands - one of my all time favorite places to shoot. Come for the murals, stay for umbrella alley and scenic cross walks (trust me on this one).
Go off-season.
Have you tried shooting at the beach in February? Don’t get me wrong, it’s cold as heck! But, it’s usually less crowded, and the sunsets can be truly epic. Or how about Palm Spring in the Fall? You won’t be shooting Fall foliage, but the streets are less crowded and it’s not 120 degrees outside... which happens in the summer… and it’s not pretty. Where AREN’T people going right now? Popular locations have their own special, much less crowded, beauty off-season.
Would you shoot at any of these locations? If you’d like to take advantage of any of the ideas mentioned in Southern California including locations in Temecula Valley, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Palm Springs, let’s chat! I’d love to plan a shoot for your business with you!