Location Scouting

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Key points

1. Keep a scouting system for future photo opportunities.
2. Implement a systematic scouting method by using your phone to capture quick reference photos of potential locations.
3. Organise these photos into folders by conditions (e.g. fog, sunrise, sunset, snow).
4. Leverage the GPS data included in phone photos to easily return to exact locations later, which is particularly useful for landscape and outdoor photography planning.
5. When conditions match (e.g. foggy morning), check the relevant folder for ideas.
6. This method saves time and ensures you don’t forget great locations.

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Extra Thoughts

1. Effective location planning extends beyond simply finding a spot; it involves thorough logistical and safety considerations critical for a successful project.
2. When selecting and planning for locations, you should consider:
   • Site logistics and accessibility: How easy is it to get to, what are the terrain challenges, and are there any physical barriers to accessing optimal shooting points?
   • Time management: Aligning shoot times with desired lighting conditions (e.g., golden hour) and season and ensuring sufficient time for setup, shooting, and packing away.
   • Equipment and resources availability: Can all necessary equipment be transported to and used safely at the location?
   • Permissions and model release: For public or private property, is permission required to photograph? If people are included, model release forms are essential to ensure legal use of images, particularly for commercial or assessment purposes.
   • Legal and copyright issues: Are there any local laws or site-specific regulations regarding photography? Understanding copyright is also important, both for your own work and when referencing others.
   • Health and safety / Risk assessment: Identifying potential hazards (e.g., unstable ground, weather conditions, dangerous animals, crime, expensive gear) and planning precautions to prevent injury or damage. It is good practice to carry out a risk assessment before practical photography.
   • Costs: Budgeting for travel, any necessary permits, or hired equipment.
3. Project plans should focus heavily on these logistical planning aspects rather than merely storytelling. The choice of location should also be appropriate for the chosen subject matter and creative approach.

Exercise

1. Take some location reference shots on your phone
2. Organise them into folders by condition (weather, season, time, etc.) you would like to return to shoot them in
3. Review photos you have taken in the past and organise them into your condition folders
4. Remember to check those folders when the right conditions arise