My Top 5 Tips for Planning a Portrait Session
1) Choose a Location
Los Angeles is a goldmine of cool locations. As you can imagine, that is one of the biggest reasons why the film industry calls it home. Within the thirty-mile zone (aka TMZ), you can find a variety of locations from sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains, from urban cityscapes to the rural wilderness. One of the reasons I moved to Los Angeles was for the opportunity to photograph outdoors all year round! Where else can you photograph a beautiful sunrise portrait on the beach in January?
I have included a list of some of my favorite spots below. Please note that clients are responsible for rental fees, parking, and photography permit fees, if required.
Indoor Studio Space
Indoor studios are my favorite go-to spot lately for portrait sessions. I love the privacy, controlled environment, option for natural lighting or studio lights, and clean backgrounds. Check out my favorite spaces in downtown Los Angeles HERE. Rentals starting at +$100.
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Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
This is one of my favorite locations for portrait sessions with sweeping views of downtown Los Angeles, modern architectural elements, and tall grassy fields that create a perfect mix of urban and natural aesthetics. You will find modern staircases and clean lines add a sleek, contemporary feel, while the elevation makes it an ideal spot for golden hour, ensuring flattering, soft lighting. For the best results, plan your session during sunset. Paid parking is available at the top of the hill. 6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232
Santa Monica Pier
A great beach at the end of Historic Route 66 with sandy beaches, wooden pier, amusement park rides, and the original muscle beach. Take a ride on top of the iconic Ferris Wheel to get beautiful Ocean views. The best time to photograph at this location is sunrise when there are less people and the sun shines bright on the South side of the pier. I suggest meeting up at parking Lot #1 for easy access to the beach. 200 Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica, CA 90401
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is an iconic landmark of Southern California. It was built in 1935 with classic Art Deco style on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, just above the Los Feliz neighborhood. It is 1,134 feet above sea level and is visible from many parts of the Los Angeles basin. It is the best spot for observing the world-famous Hollywood Sign, downtown LA, and the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. My favorite backgrounds for portraits include the big arches, detailed doors, and winding staircases. Professional photography is allowed but with limited use of additional light modifiers (no lightstands and umbrellas). Cellphone service is unreliable, so I suggest meeting up at a prearranged spot like the tall monument between the Observatory and the paid parking lot at the very top. You also have the option of free street parking and walking uphill. There are water fountains and public restrooms on site for wardrobe changes. 2800 E Observatory Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90027
Another really pretty location is Griffith Park, at the base of the Observatory. It has lots of mature trees, lush trails, a bubbling brook, and bridges (see pic above). One of the most challenging parts about photographing here, is that we loose the sunlight early behind the hills and trees. To achieve the best natural lighting with pretty backlight, we should be ending out session about 40 minutes before the sun actually sets. The best place to meet up is near The Trails Cafe located at 2333 Fern Dell, LA CA 90027 and walk the park south towards Los Feliz Blvd.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
A modern masterpiece located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles designed by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry. Walls of brushed metal and mirrored walls, full sized trees with lush greenery, and a beautiful rooftop garden. This location provides lots of unique opportunities for portrait sessions. I love the modern style with neutral color palate. This is a good choice for a daytime portrait session. A permit is not required and the location should be avoided on the weekends because of the massive amount of tourists. Additional locations nearby include The Broad Museum, Grand Central Market, and historic Angels Flight. Parking is available directly beneath Walt Disney Concert Hall; enter on Second Street or Lower Grand Avenue. 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012
2) What to Wear
Here’s a few ideas to help guide you in your outfit selection.
- Wear something timeless, comfortable, and classy.
- Create textures and layers. This is easier to do in the fall and winter months with bright woven scarves, faux furs, knits, bold prints, and interesting fabrics. In the summer and spring, you can create layers with accessories like statement jewelry, scarves, ties, bags, fun shoes, wraps, and hats.
- Avoid items that detract from the scene like white socks, oversized watches, big logo t-shirts, and fashion sunglasses.
- If you are looking for an affordable stylist, try Stitch Fix! I have tried it and loved the outfit they sent me! You can order as often as you like and for specific occasions. Click HERE to use my promo code for $25 OFF your first order.
- Bright colors look great! For couples and families, try choosing outfits with colors that complement each other rather than exact matches. Avoid wearing solid white on white or solid black on black.
- Limit your color selections up to 3 complimentary colors. This helps you look coordinated without being overly matchy.
- Loose and flowy fabrics bring a romantic element to engagement shoots.
If you’re wondering whether a certain item is a good idea, just ask! I'm happy to help you coordinate your wardrobe for what will look best in photos.
3) Golden Hour
I love all the colors of a California sunset. The periwinkle blues, candy pink, and soft purples. Golden Hour is my preferred time for natural light portrait sessions. To capture this kind of lighting, you will want to start your session an hour before sunset or right before sunrise.
To check sunset/sunrise times click HERE.
Even though golden hour is preferred, I am not limited with lighting conditions. Sometimes we do get a gloomy overcast evening or have no choice but to photograph in the middle of the day when the sun is directly overhead. I have solutions to these problems with additional light and CTO gels.
4) Professional Hair and Makeup
One of the biggest things that will make an impact on your portraits is professional hair and makeup. For your session you'll want to look and feel your very best. One way I recommend saving a little money, is to schedule a hair appointment and makeup trial the same day as your portrait session.
Here's some of my favorite artists who offer beauty services on location.
- Kelly Zhang, Pasadena
- Kohnur Premier Bridal Beauty, Pasadena
- Bridal Makeup by Rovelyn, Eagle Rock
- Yuri Sinata Hair and Makeup, South Pasadena
- Sharon Y Park, Downtown Los Angeles
5) Fun Props
Props can be a great way to express your personality. It also helps break the ice of awkward posing and gives you something to do with your hands.
- sparklers (for nighttime)
- oversized frames - poster size
- balloons
- vintage sofa
- treats (cupcakes/ s'mores/ cotton candy/ ice cream/ popcorn)
- hobby things (football/ surfboard/ yoga)
- board games
- tandem bikes
- numbers or signs
