Good planning for a photoshoot is vital to a successful, stress-free experience for both the photographer and the clients or models. Along with reviewing a moodboard, creating a timeline, and other important planning steps, be sure to thoroughly scout each photography location prior to every shoot. In addition to planning for shoots with predetermined locations, scouting is also vital for finding new scenes and locations for your next shoot. So in this article, we’ll provide you with a complete guide on location scouting in photography, from the apps to use to the process of conducting thorough online and in-person research.
Location Scouting: At a Glance
This guide covers everything you need to know about scouting photography locations, whether you’re preparing for a booked shoot or searching for fresh creative backdrops.
- Why Location Scouting is Beneficial – How scouting reduces stress and improves results
- Location Scouting Tools – Apps and gear to bring on a scout
- How to Scout Predetermined Locations – Research methods for known venues
- How to Scout New Photography Locations – Finding and evaluating fresh spots
Why Location Scouting is Beneficial
Location scouting is an essential step in photography planning that enables photographers to envision their shoot beforehand. This proactive approach not only assists in finding unique spots and angles, often overlooked or undiscovered by others, but also reduces variables and stress during the shoot.
Effective location scouting also builds confidence. It provides an opportunity to assess lighting conditions, get familiar with the environment, and start forming a mental image of the desired set of shots. Beyond that, scouting helps create a well-defined creative direction for the photo shoot. It determines the time allocation for each spot and ensures that every desired shot is captured efficiently and effectively.
Perhaps most practically, scouting gives you a backup plan. If something goes wrong with your primary location, a well-scouted plan B nearby can save the entire shoot. That kind of preparation is what separates a stressful day from a smooth one.
Location Scouting Tools | What To Bring
Before heading out to location scout, prepare yourself with the right tools for the job. Here are recommended tools and apps to use for location scouting:
- Smartphone with Google Maps – Google Maps will provide you with a good satellite view of the property, including parking areas, access roads, and surrounding foliage.
- Sun Seeker App – This critical app will help you see the exact direction of the sun at any time of the day. The perfect location isn’t perfect if the light direction is not ideal!
- Pinterest – Pinterest is a great way to gather all of your location ideas. Not only is it easy to upload to, it’s also easy to share with your shoot team once everything is collected.
- Comfortable Shoes, Water, Snacks – Be ready to climb and explore comfortably. A proper scout can take a couple of hours, so don’t underestimate the physical side.
- Camera – While your smartphone camera will suffice, it’s often beneficial to visualize different focal lengths and amounts of bokeh. Test shots at the scene are invaluable for reviewing light and composition back at home.
- Notepad or Notes App – Document what you find. Jot down parking notes, light observations, permit requirements, and specific spots worth revisiting. Memory fades fast between a scout and shoot day.
How to Scout Predetermined Photography Locations
If you already know where you’ll be shooting, scouting a predetermined photography location is mainly a matter of researching everything you can about that venue before you arrive. The more you know going in, the more efficiently you’ll move once you’re on location. Here are several ways to scout a location prior to your visit.
Location Scouting with Google Maps
The satellite view of Google Maps will give you critical information like driving directions, parking, general direction of the sunset, foliage and shade, and potential access issues. This is the first step to location scouting. Switch between satellite and street view to get a ground-level sense of the space, and use the timeline feature (where available) to see what the location looks like at different times of year.
Location Scouting with Google Images
The next step is to do a general Google Images search of the location. The goal is not to find images to recreate or copy, but rather to understand the range of opportunities available at the venue.
When viewing other images, pay close attention to the time of day and the lighting situations. Some scenes look incredible at certain times of the day, like golden hour, but may not work in harsh midday sunlight. Look for patterns in where photographers tend to position their subjects, and ask yourself what you’d do differently.
Location Scouting with Instagram and Social Media
Instagram – Instagram can be a great tool for scouting photography locations. Use the search function to look for relevant hashtags, such as #landscapephotography or #urbanexploration, and browse through the top posts and tagged photos. Take note of location tags and captions, as well as any nearby landmarks or points of interest mentioned. You can also follow local photographers and photography accounts for inspiration and to discover new places to shoot. Instagram’s “Explore” feature can surface popular posts and locations near you. Once you’ve found a potential location, research the area and any potential access or photography restrictions before heading out.
Local Facebook Groups – Location scouting doesn’t have to be a solo adventure. Try connecting with other creatives in Facebook Groups and ask for advice. Consider posting an image in a local Facebook group and asking for recommendations on scouting a similar location in your area. Local photography communities are generally welcoming and generous with insider tips.
How to Scout New Photography Locations
Discovering a new location is the second part of location scouting. This exploration phase can give your photography a creative edge by helping you find distinctive imagery in unique settings. It also benefits your client relationships. By finding and suggesting places that align perfectly with their style and tastes, you not only meet but often surpass their expectations.
To maximize the effectiveness of this process, consider the following guidelines:
Set Goals for Your Location Scouting
As you set out for location scouting, you’ll likely face countless possibilities that can make the process feel overwhelming. Before you head out, always have a goal or a story you’re trying to tell. Locations are simply backdrops that help tell a greater story; they’re tools, not the destination. Knowing what you’re looking for before you start will save you hours of aimless wandering.
Here are some things you will want to know or document when scouting locations:
- Various detailed photos of the scene
- Lighting conditions at different times of day
- Pricing and availability
- Capacity limits
- Access to amenities (power, restrooms, etc.)
- Parking
- Safety considerations
- Contact information and permit requirements
It’s All About Timing
Locations change, and it’s wise to visit the scene at the same time of day you plan to shoot. This will help you plan accordingly and keep you from encountering unpleasant surprises on shoot day.
The time of day, week, year, or season will dictate how many obstacles you encounter. For example, if you’ve chosen to shoot at a historic landmark, you’ll want to visit at a time that mirrors your planned shoot schedule to get an accurate read on foot traffic and tourist crowds.
Timing and weather go hand-in-hand, so make sure to check the forecast. Snow, rain, sun, and wind can each help or hurt your planned shoot. Checking the weather during your scout gives you a realistic baseline for what to expect and what contingencies to have ready.
Look at the Light
Always pay attention to the available lighting. Interior shoots will almost always have limited natural light, so make sure you have the necessary lighting equipment. If you’re using larger light kits, confirm you have the space and access to power outlets before commit day.
If your scene is outside, take note of the time and the direction of the sun. Are you standing in full sun, partial sun, or full shade? This matters because bright, direct light can be harsh on skin tones and blow out light-colored surfaces. Understanding where open shade falls and how the sun tracks across the space gives you the ability to plan your shot list around the light rather than fighting it.
Take a few test shots so you can review how the light actually renders when you get home. What looks good to the naked eye doesn’t always translate to camera the same way.
Other Location Scouting Tips
- Think about the requirements of the shoot first. Who’s being photographed and what are their needs? Will there be small children who need to be close to a restroom? Models who need a changing area? Large amounts of gear that will need to be stored or transported?
- Find out what is happening both in the surrounding area and directly around your chosen location. Are there sporting events, festivals, or construction projects that could cause delays or crowd the space?
- Determine whether you need permission or permits, and if you’re planning to shoot without them, be realistic about the risks involved.
- Know where the nearest hospital or urgent care facility is, especially for remote or outdoor locations with terrain hazards.
- Scout as close to the actual day and time of your shoot as possible. Doing so gives you the most accurate read on light, crowds, and conditions, which is the whole point of the exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Location Scouting
How far in advance should I scout a photography location?
Ideally, scout a location within a week or two of your shoot date so the conditions are representative of what you’ll actually encounter. For seasonal shoots or locations that change significantly with weather, a scout closer to the date is even more useful. If the location is brand new to you, an earlier preliminary visit followed by a final scout closer to the shoot date is a solid approach.
Do I need a permit to photograph at a location I’ve scouted?
It depends on the location. Public parks, beaches, and streets often have permit requirements for professional or commercial photography, especially if you’re bringing a team and equipment. Private venues almost always require prior authorization. It’s worth researching local regulations and contacting venue managers during the scouting phase, well before shoot day.
What’s the best app for checking sun position during a location scout?
Sun Seeker is one of the most widely used tools among photographers for visualizing the sun’s position and arc at any time of day and any date of the year. PhotoPills is another excellent option that adds moon tracking, golden hour times, and augmented reality planning tools. Both are well worth having on your phone for any serious scouting session.
Can I scout a location using only online tools, or do I need to visit in person?
Online tools like Google Maps, Google Images, and Instagram can give you a strong foundation, but nothing fully replaces an in-person visit for important shoots. Photos taken by others can be outdated, flattering, or misleading. An in-person scout reveals the real light, the actual crowds, the hidden obstacles, and the practical logistics that no satellite image can show you.
How do I find new photography locations I’ve never heard of?
Start with Instagram hashtags related to your region and genre (#socalphotography, #weddingvenue, etc.), then dig into Google Images and local Facebook photography groups. Apps like The Dyrt or AllTrails can surface outdoor spots worth exploring. Driving or walking areas you’re already familiar with through a photographer’s eye is also surprisingly effective. Sometimes the best locations are ones you pass every day without really seeing them.
Conclusion
Location scouting is one of the most underrated habits a photographer can develop. The time you invest before shoot day pays off in smoother logistics, better light, stronger compositions, and calmer nerves. Whether you’re prepping for a client shoot at a booked venue or hunting for a hidden gem to add to your go-to roster, a thorough scout makes the difference between a shoot you have to survive and one you actually enjoy.
Location scouting may not always be possible, but when it is, give it a try. You and your photography will thank you for it.
