Taking photos in ugly locations

A few weeks ago I was driving in the car with my kids and I spotted some beautiful tall grasses. The surroundings weren’t the best, however, the grasses themselves and the trees behind them made a great spot. This gives us a great example of to take beautiful photos in ugly locations as long as you know what to look for. Thankfully, one of my kids was decently dressed and had been wanting me to take some pictures of her with her new doll.

We pulled the car over and hopped out. This is what we saw when we first drove by. Definitely nothing you’d think would be magical.

ugly photo locations

At first glance, this doesn’t look like much, however, those tall grasses are a neutral backdrop and the pine trees in the background were diffusing the setting sun. This little patch as just across the street from District 850.

photos in ugly locations

There was garbage on the ground and cars passing by, but I saw potential. I placed my daughter in one spot that was free from trash. The grasses and pine trees were behind her and we took these photos.

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What my portfolio doesn't tell you about me
When was the last time you looked at an old family photo and thought, 'I wish fewer people were in this'?

Probably never.

That is exactly why I always say yes when families ask whether they should include the grandparents, the cousins, the aunt and uncle who are only in town for a few days.

When you are not sure, say yes anyway. We will find a way to make it work.
A few things I want every family to know before a multigenerational session.

Start with the group shot - always. I photograph the full group first, before anything else, so every person in attendance (including the ones who drove the farthest) knows the most important image is already done. From there, we move through smaller groupings with a lighter energy.

Tell me about mobility before we choose a location. If a grandparent or family member has any physical considerations, I need to know before we land on a spot. There is always a way to create beautiful images that honor everyone present - I just need to know what we are working with so I can plan for it.

Mornings are almost always better for the little ones. Babies and toddlers are near-universally happier before the afternoon hits. When multiple generations are present, timing the session well makes a real difference in the energy of the whole group.

And if there are any family dynamics I should be aware of - specific pairings that need extra care, or groupings you would prefer I not suggest - please tell me. It keeps everything moving warmly, and it protects everyone from an awkward moment in front of the camera.

Planning is how multigenerational sessions go well. I am always happy to talk it through before your session date. Contact me through my website, link in bio.

Memberships and Affiliations

Sarah Gray Photography | Professional Photographer of America Member
Sarah Gray Photography | The Motherhood Anthology Member

Sarah Gray creates timeless and joyful images that are designed for living room walls and photo albums. A tallahassee photographer, Sarah Gray also serves Thomasville, Crawfordville, St. Marks, Gainesville and throughout the panhandle of north Florida and south Georgia.

email us | sarah@sarahgray.com

telephone (850) 321-0208

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located in tallahassee, florida