As an entrepreneur with a growing service-based business, your personal brand is everything. But let’s face it – sometimes shooting in your personal space just isn’t feasible or desirable. Whether you’re not ready to invite the world into your home office or the thought of staging your space makes you break out in hives, there’s a solution: finding an external photo shoot location that perfectly aligns with your brand, style, and business.

Tips for Booking the Ideal Rental Location

1. Prioritize Natural Light: Aim for locations with ample windows and book between 10 AM and 3 PM for optimal indoor lighting, later in summer months..
2. Versatility is Key: Look for spaces that offer multiple set-ups – a desk area, lounge space, and common room can provide variety in your shots.
3. Get Creative with AirBnBs: Reach out to owners directly about off-site bookings to avoid extra fees. Mid-week rentals often come at a lower cost.
4. Consider a Staycation: If a location requires a full night booking, why not turn it into a mini-retreat?
5. Time Management: For hourly bookings, ensure you have enough time for setup and cleanup. Ask about grace periods on either end of your scheduled time.

Inspiring Photo Shoot Location Ideas

1. Boutique hotels with chic lobbies or suites
2. Co-working spaces with varied environments
3. Stylish cafes, patios are a bonus
4. Galleries or libraries for a cultural touch
5. High-end retail spaces with curated interiors

The Crucial Step: Permission for your Photo Shoot Location

When considering public spaces like cafes, retail spaces or galleries for your shoot location, always reach out to the management or administration of these spaces well in advance. Explain your project, the scope of your shoot, and how you plan to use the images. Many public spaces have specific policies about commercial photography, and failing to adhere to these can result in embarrassing interruptions, and possible consequences. If nothing else it is a kindness. Many managers are happy to oblige, especially if you offer to tag them or add them as a collaborator on Instagram (this is a bonus for you too if they have a large following). 

Remember, the right  photo shoot location can build relationships, and inspire your audience. 

I am a personal brand photographer in Halifax, Nova Scotia. If you would like my local (central NS) Photo Shoot Location List, download my Pricing Guide