One of the current trends that I love in photography is taking family portrait sessions out of the studio and into the community. So much more can be created when you’re outside- especially during the Golden Hour. But, you also need to be mindful of the safety of your location- especially with young kids are around.  

Some of the things that I often consider when location scouting for family sessions are: 

• Proximity to busy roads

• Proximity to bodies of water

• Ease of access, especially when a family member has a physical disability

• Interesting features for the children to explore

• Location rules and regulations; for example, the Albuquerque Botannical Gardens don’t allow us to walk in certain places

• Beauty of the location and it’s variability of use

It seems like a lot, but my main concern is keeping my clients safe. I’m always open to suggestions and requests from my clients when it comes to locations, but I never agree unless it meets my standards.  

When looking for an outdoor location for your own portrait session, I would encourage you to consider the safety of the area first. All of the professional photographers I know do this, and have found beautiful locations in and around Albuquerque for portrait sessions that are safe. And, it’s another reason that I would encourage you to work with a pro photographer. Sometimes ‘fauxtographers’- for lack of a better term- put their subjects in precarious and unsafe situations that lead to them getting hurt. 

In conclusion, please pick a location that is not only pretty, but is also safe!