How to Find Inspiration & Location for a Photoshoot
Finding Inspiration
I find inspiration for content in a variety of different ways. I find I’m more creative when I’m in nature - so I try to take a lot of walks and listen to a podcast while doing it. Not only am I changing my physical state, I am also challenging my mental state. The combination of this boosts my creativity ten fold. Below is a list of my go-to podcasts for all things business and content creation. I also look to film, television, books and other social media channels for inspiration. Find my favorite books, here. Pinterest is also a great resource to find ideas for location, composition, posing, lighting etc.
When planning ahead for a shoot, I recommend creating a secret board on Pinterest with your photographer or anyone who is helping style the shoot. This is to ensure you all have a cohesive vision and vibe for the shoot and so that the photographer can get a feel for the type of lens and equipment to bring along. You can also reference this if you get stumped for ideas on site.
My Go To Podcasts Recommendations for Inspiration:
1. Goal Digger Podcast - Jenna Kutcher
Goal Digger is where I learn the BULK of my Instagram and Marketing Strategies! Jenna thinks about social media platforms in a TOTALLY unique way and never ceases to come up with ideas that leave me feeling like - I GOT THIS.
2. SuperSoul Conversations - Oprah
This is what I like to listen to when I am feeling: burnt out, overwhelmed and/or anxious. Oprah always brings on guests who help me remember my mission and re-center myself on a personal level so that I can slow down and synch up with my soul.
3. TED Daily
Sometimes I just need to be inspired by things that are NOT related to social media. TED is known for the worlds best talks from innovators in technology and design. I love exposing myself to daily snippets from talks (TED Daily episodes are super short, usually 15 min) to get that creative ZING I need to fuel my own projects!
4. The Influencer Podcast - Julie Soloman
This is the GO-TO for all things related to the industry for Content Creators. I highly recommend listening to this entire show if you are an aspiring influencer. Julie is a walking free encyclopedia for this world, and the amount of info she gives away for free on her podcast blows my mind. This is a no BRAINER.
5. How I Built This - Guy Raz
This is the show that launched my career. It is what gave me the GUTS and confidence to go FULL TIME in my business. Each episode features an origin story from a start up in the past 5-10 years that has BLOWN UP: from Uber to Bumble, to Squarespace and Soul Cycle… the principles discussed with these superstar entrepreneurs can be applied across all industries! It’s a must for anyone who is dreaming of starting a business or is in the process of growing one.
How To Pick a Location
Do you want something scenic? Do you want a city vibe? What is the purpose of your shoot? Base your location off of what you’re selling (or the main focus of your post). Think of seasonality - don’t shoot a back-to-school campaign in a swimsuit in Hawaii (well…unless your audience demographic are Hawaiian residents).
Think about the overall composition you want the final shot to be. Do you need to see a large part of the background for a full body? Or do you only need to see a small portion of the background? This can determine where you go to shoot. You don’t always need an epic location or backdrop to make your content successful. Don’t bend over backwards to achieve perfection - do some brainstorming; get creative!
Pro tip: If you are choosing a location that is indoors, you’re likely going to get asked who you are and why you’re shooting there by whoever manages the location. If you are using a DSLR, you may be asked to stop shooting or asked for what purpose you’re shooting. I always respond with, “this is for my personal blog.” The key here is to assure them that it isn’t a paid shoot by a brand. Photographers typical need a permit to shoot most places if the images are being used to sell something. You can usually shoot with an iPhone easily so that’s a good backup plan!
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