Choosing the perfect brand photo location for your photo shoot can be overwhelming for many small business owners. After all, the setting for your photos will play a huge role in how your brand is perceived.

Booking a brand shoot is an exciting step in building your business’s visual identity. Whether you’re just starting out or rebranding, professional brand photos are an essential way to connect with your audience and showcase your business personality. But before you dive into planning outfits and props, there’s one major decision to make:

What location should you choose for your brand photos?

In this post, I’ll walk you through the most important factors to consider when choosing a brand photo location. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy, inviting vibe or sleek, professional imagery, the right backdrop can elevate your photos and help tell your brand story.

Why Your Brand Photo Location Matters

Your location isn’t just a backdrop; it’s an essential part of your brand’s narrative. When someone looks at your photos, the first thing they notice isn’t always your outfit or props—it’s the environment you’re in. Does it feel like you? Does it reflect the message you’re trying to convey?

The right location will help set the tone for your entire brand, supporting the emotions and values you want your audience to associate with your business. So, how do you find a location for brand photos that best represents your brand? Let’s dive into my best tips:

1. Does the Brand Photo Location Match Your Brand Vibe?

Your brand’s personality is crucial when picking a brand photo location. Are you aiming for a cozy, friendly vibe that invites people in? Or do you want something sleek and modern that conveys professionalism and sophistication? Think about what your ideal client would feel when they encounter your brand.

• Warm and Inviting: If your brand is focused on connection and approachability (think: wellness, coaching, or lifestyle brands), a location with soft lighting, cozy furniture, and a homey feel might be perfect.
• Polished and Professional: For businesses that want to showcase expertise and professionalism (think: law firms, financial advisors, or corporate services), a modern office space, an industrial-chic warehouse, or a minimalist studio could be a better match.

When scouting brand photo locations, take a moment to imagine how the space will reflect your brand’s voice. The goal is for your audience to feel the same emotions when they see your photos as they would if they experienced your service or product in real life.

2. Is There Variety in the Location?

One of the best ways to maximize your brand photo session is by choosing a brand photo location with multiple backdrops. Variety is key when you want a diverse set of photos that capture different aspects of your brand. Ideally, you want a space with a variety of textures, colors, and layouts—whether it’s a cozy home with a couch and a coffee table or a stylish studio with a minimalist aesthetic.

Having multiple areas to shoot in means you won’t have to spend time moving from one place to another, and you’ll get more content from a single session. That means less stress and more options for you to choose from when it’s time to update your website, social media, or marketing materials.

Check out all the variety in this one location for the photo shoot I did with Definition Collective.

3. Lighting Is Everything

Good lighting can make or break your photos. Natural light or window light is particularly flattering and will give your brand photos a fresh, authentic feel. Look for spaces with large windows or lots of natural light that floods the space. Natural light will give your photos an authentic vibe—something that can be hard to replicate with artificial lighting.

If natural light isn’t available at the location you’re planning to use, consider hiring a photographer who can truly create the kinds of photo you want with flash and other alternative lighting setups. Not all photographers can do this, so be sure they have portfolio work showing their ability to create a “window light” look with artificial lighting.

4. Can You Incorporate Your Brand Elements?

Whether it’s your signature color, logo, or a custom prop, your brand elements should be front and center in your photo shoot. Make sure the location allows for props, personal items, or setups that reflect your brand.

For example, if your business is focused on hand-crafted products, you may want to incorporate tools or raw materials into your shoot. If you offer services like coaching or consulting, having a workspace or a desk setup can bring authenticity to the images.

Before booking a location, confirm with the owner or manager about any restrictions on props or modifications you might want to make. Most venues will be flexible with adding items to the space, but it’s always best to ask beforehand.

Note: very often, brand photo locations don’t allow lit candles, confetti, pets, or hanging items on the wall. Be sure to check with the space you plan to use if you’re hoping to incorporate any of these into your shoot.

5. Consider the Logistics of the Location

As important as the aesthetics are, the logistics of the location can make a huge difference in the success of your shoot. Be sure to consider the following factors before booking:

• Rental Costs: Make sure the space fits within your budget. Many brand photo locations charge hourly rates, so be sure to factor this into your overall cost.
• Parking and Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to get to the location. Is there parking nearby? A location with convenient access can save you time and frustration on shoot day.
• Load-in and Load-out: If you’re bringing in props, equipment, and clothing, check to see how easy it is to load in and out of the location. Some spaces may have elevators, others may require you to carry things up stairs. Make sure you know what to expect.

Planning these logistics ahead of time will help your shoot run smoothly and stress-free.

6. Use Peerspace to Find the Perfect Location for Your Brand Photos

If you’re still unsure where to start, one of my favorite resources for booking brand photo shoot locations is Peerspace. It’s kinda like an Airbnb for photo shoots, it’s available in most cities, and it’s packed with a variety of stunning brand photo locations. From minimalist studios to chic lofts and cozy living rooms, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your brand’s vibe.

Conclusion: Let’s Create Photos That Are 100% You

Choosing the right brand photo location is key to ensuring your brand shoot reflects your personality, values, and aesthetic. Whether you go for a professional office space, a cozy home studio, or an industrial warehouse, make sure it aligns with your brand’s vibe and enhances your visual storytelling.

The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. I provide suggestions and guidance through the process of selecting the perfect location for all my brand clients. On top of that, I pull together all your location info (sometimes that includes me reaching out to the location host), and give it to you in the final document I deliver so you can be fully prepared for your shoot.

Remember, I’m here to help you every step of the way—whether it’s picking the perfect spot or planning the details of your shoot. Together, we’ll create brand photos that truly represent who you are and help you connect with your ideal audience.

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And if you’re ready to hire a brand photographer that helps you with things like locations, and so much more, let’s talk!