When looking at locations, I look for a mix of light, color, and texture. At times, the location may play a more central role in telling the story in your photograph. In other cases, the location will simply provide background texture as the photo focuses on you.
Both locations below would be best photographed in the evening (choose an evening time from my portrait calendar here – these have already been calculated based on sunset times each day).
Downtown East Lansing offers a neutral backdrop with pops of color and art. This gives you a great chance to introduce more colors through your clothing choices. Bring in the character of the new Blue Owl coffee by renting their back room for $40 (see top left photo and bottom right photo). This room has a white base with a natural wood table and greenery up the wall, which would provide a great variety of backdrop if lit properly. East Lansing also gives you a chance to tie in your connection to MSU.
Vibe: modern eclectic with pops of color (teal, green, blue, yellow through clothing), potential to bring green leafy potted plant to add color to steps.
Old Town Lansing’s Art District has a more colorful palette with more historical character. It reminds me a bit of a few photoshoots that I’ve done in New Orleans (my main headshot on my website is actually in New Orleans).
Vibe: Colorful character (yellow, green, pink), potential to bring small tufted chair for sitting
