Photo Challenge: Finding Hidden Treasure Locations

Are you getting tired of using the same old locations for your photo sessions? Looking for someplace new to spice things up? Here's my challenge to you. It's time to think outside of the box and find a new, unexpected location. Let's go beyond parks and beaches and look for those hidden treasures that create such unique, interesting backdrops for portrait photography.

I've asked three other amazing photographers to complete this challenge with me: Kayla Richards, Yolanda Williams, and Susan Weinroth.

My take on the challenge:

In preparation for this challenge, I decided to take a drive around my town. I paid close attention to storefronts, alleyways, churches, housing development entrances, etc., anything that looked interesting or different. I finally decided to take a portrait of my sister using the storefront of this adorable little cupcake shop in our neighborhood. I fell in love with an interesting heart detail of a painted shutter and used that for the portrait of my sister.

Here is the finished product as well as the image of the location I used for this picture.

Kayla Richard's take on the challenge:

The photos were taken downtown. The first shot is the alley in which the photo was taken, which on first glance, looks pretty run down and unappealing. The second is the portrait itself, taken in this same alley. Alleys are my favorite places to take pictures because there is usually good even lighting, and interesting or simple, but nice backgrounds.

Yolanda Williams' take on the challenge:

My shots were taken at a parking deck. Yes, a parking deck. I quickly learned that the lighting was perfect for my taste. Additionally, the stairwell in the parking deck was perfect as well; the windows gave the perfect amount of light. I almost felt as if I had a 6-foot stairwell studio. In fact, I have several sessions set up for this location in the very near future. The first picture is of the setup - the parking deck. The following pictures were taken on the outer edge of the parking deck and inside the stairwell.

Susan Weinroth's take on the challenge:

With infants, I love using fun fabric backgrounds! For this picture, I chose a bright Japanese import fabric that coordinated with my son's outfit. I simply stretched it out on the floor, being careful not to have wrinkles or creases, and laid Evan on top. I stood over him and snapped away, using the natural light that my living room windows provided. Fabrics offer a unique, interesting alternative as a background for portrait photography.

Now it's your turn! Take another look around your house or your town and find something unique and interesting to use as a background. I challenge you!

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