When clients ask me about the best locations for their session, I always say the same thing: the location matters less than the light. A simple alleyway in golden hour can look more beautiful than the most expensive venue in harsh midday sun. Light is what transforms an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.
The Quality of Light
There's a difference between light that illuminates and light that transforms. Soft, diffused light wraps around subjects gently, creating depth and dimension. Harsh, direct light can flatten features and create unflattering shadows. This is why I often suggest sessions during golden hour, that magical time just after sunrise or before sunset when the light is warm, soft, and forgiving.
But golden hour isn't the only option. Overcast days provide beautifully even, soft light that's perfect for portraits. Window light indoors can be stunning. Even shade on a sunny day can work beautifully. The key is understanding how to work with whatever light we have.
Light Creates Mood
Light doesn't just show us what's there, it tells us how to feel about it. Warm, golden light feels intimate and romantic. Cool, blue light can feel calm and contemplative. Dramatic side lighting creates depth and emotion. The direction, color, and quality of light all contribute to the story we're telling.
This is why I pay close attention to light during every session. I'll position you to catch the light in a way that flatters and enhances the mood we're creating. Sometimes that means moving just a few feet. Sometimes it means waiting a few minutes for the light to shift. The result is always worth it.
Location as a Canvas
This isn't to say location doesn't matter at all. A beautiful location can enhance a session. But I've photographed stunning portraits in parking lots, ordinary parks, and simple rooms, all because the light was right. The location becomes a canvas, but the light is the paint.
When choosing a location, I think about how the light will interact with the space. Will there be interesting shadows? Will the light bounce off surfaces to create depth? Will we have options to move between different lighting conditions? These questions matter more than whether the location is Instagram-famous.
Working with Natural Light
I work almost exclusively with natural light because it feels authentic and timeless. Natural light changes throughout the day, creating different moods and opportunities. Learning to read and work with natural light is one of the most important skills in photography.
During your session, I'll be constantly aware of the light, how it's changing, where it's coming from, and how we can use it to create the most beautiful images. This might mean adjusting our position, timing certain shots, or simply being patient for the perfect moment.