Would dog poop be a family photo session location deal breaker for you?  When I did location scouting at this new location, everything looked great.  But as I was kneeling down to take my first picture of this family, I quickly realized that I was stepping in dog poop.  I actually stepped in it two more times during this session.  Luckily these clients were very laid back and we made a joke of dodging the poop.  However, as pretty as this location is, I am thinking this is pretty much a deal breaker for future sessions 

What are some other family photo session location deal breakers for me?

CROWDED FAMILY PHOTO SESSION LOCATIONS

Especially now, but even pre-COVID I tried to avoid photographing in crowded areas.  I want to be able to easily walk around and explore with families without having to avoid lots of other people.

NO TREES

Trees create shade and act as diffusers for the sun.  Other than the few minutes after sunrise or before sunset, the sunlight is harsh so trees are a must.

TOO MUCH SHADE

I know this sounds like the opposite of what I just said, but stick with me for a minute.  Not all shade is created equal.  I want shade to diffuse the light, but too many trees blocking the sky also block light on faces.  If you can’t see the sky from where we are taking photos, there won’t be clean even light on your faces.  This will not only make for dark photos, but also the light will be bouncing off trees and can create green skin tones (usually not too flattering, unless you are the Hulk).

These are a few of my deal breakers for family photo session locations.  What are your location deal breakers?

Here is another blog about what I look for in locations.