Location, location, location!

Let's talk locations! You are likely here as we are currently in the planning phase of your session which means we need to decide where we are going to capture your portraits. We are suuuuuper lucky in the Waikato, there are plenty of neat spots locally and even the beach isn't too far!

A few things to think about:

- Middle of the day/bright sunlight = big no no! No one really wants harsh shadows and squinty eyes which is why I recommend as early as possible in the morning or late arvo. Golden hour can be pretty neat too but I'm all too familiar with the hangry, tired children at this time of day so most of the time late arvo is a more child-friendly option so we have happy little faces.

- Some locations are best suited to either a morning OR afternoon depending on the sun whilst others are great at both times of the day.

- The colours of the backdrop, is a fresh green your thing? Old rustic building with a bit of character? Pastel tones of the coast? Earthy browns of a dry meadow? If you are aiming for a particular colour palette for the base of your images keep the colours of the location in mind.

Below are a few snippets of local spots that I frequent at and their approx location. If you have another spot in mind that you would like to use I recommend heading out there at the time of day you are hoping to have your session and see where the light is, what direction you can easily look in without having sun in your eyes and if there are any distracting elements that may be visible in your images. If in doubt, send me some iphone snaps of the spot and we can discuss or if nearby I may be able to pop out and have a look prior to your shoot if I think that's required.

The options are truly endless, there's far too many to list below so if you have seen something somewhere please chat with me! I'm here to bring your vision to life. Of course if you don't have 'a vision' then just leave that up to me - I'm all over that stuff!

The Forest, Morrinsville
This is a public reserve that has a forest of mature (and very tall) trees, the ground is mostly overgrown with a slight wild look in places and a mow patch in other areas. It is seasonal so from late Spring through to Autumn it is at it's prime. The light, lush green growth comes from early Sprint through to Summer. As you can see there are several areas to this reserve which all photograph differently. 

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​The Oaks, Morrinsville
Lined with mature oak trees this one is on the outskirts of Morrinsville. A public reserve with a driveway right through which gives great depth and plenty of space. Spring & Summer boasts fresh green growth, Autumn is a burnt orange with all the rustic tones. Winter - basically a no go! Stick to the warmer months for this one. Adjacent to the oak lane is a field that at times can be left with long grass that lends itself to a second area within the same reserve. As it's on a random mow schedule it is a case of pure luck on the grass. 

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​The Factory, Near Hamilton 
An old, very rustic building loaded with character - This one has been a popular choice lately as it offers places with places to sit, lean as well as stand in your portraits. Best in the morning

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​The Beach, Waihi/Mount Maunganui/Raglan
Lots of areas from rock faces to the vast beach. The lighting changes dramatically during the day. One thing to consider when looking at a coastal shoot is the sea breeze  so expect movement in your hair (and any children's hair). Travel charges do apply to any of the coastal areas.

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​Overgrown Meadow, Hamilton
This little area is a pull-off/truck stop off the main road. A frequent spot for many photographers, unsure of who actually owns it but fairly certain it's not a public spot. So only for those that are a little game ; ) 

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​Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton
A popular spot for visitor and tourists so as early as possible is key here. Many gardens are in full sunlight as the day progresses so early morning.  There is a nearby forest that is not in the actual gardens which is a very popular choice.

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​Your home
Some of my favourite images have been captured at my client's very own home or a property of their family or friends. I have had families on tractor buckets, in barns, driveways and amongst their cows. If you have an idea, we can make it happen together!