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Top Photo Shoot locations

SuperHost
Loft Garden Oasis In Mt Pleasant
  • $98/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (747)
  • 747
  • Instant book
  • Responds within 1 hr
  • Vancouver, BC
SuperHost
Valley Studio| Includes lights, backgrounds & more
  • $50/hr
  • New
  • 4.9 (157)
  • 157
  • Instant book
  • Responds within a few hours
  • Los Angeles, CA
SuperHost
ATARAXIA Loft - Affordable Photo + Video Space
  • $55/hr
  • New
  • 4.9 (217)
  • 217
  • Instant book
  • Responds within 1 hr
  • Vancouver, BC
SuperHost
Beautiful Spacious Studio With Multiple Backdrops
  • $30/hr
  • New
  • 4.9 (135)
  • 135
  • Instant book
  • Responds within a few hours
  • Los Angeles, CA
SuperHost
Beautiful and bright heritage space
  • $90/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (129)
  • 129
  • Instant book
  • Responds within a few hours
  • Vancouver, BC
SuperHost
New York Style Industrial Loft Space with A/C
  • $49/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (72)
  • 72
  • Instant book
  • Responds within a few hours
  • Los Angeles, CA
SuperHost
A place to create
  • $85/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (117)
  • 117
  • Instant book
  • Responds within a day
  • Vancouver, BC
SuperHost
Vintage Multi-Set Fashion Studio w/ TONS of props
  • $50/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (33)
  • 33
  • Instant book
  • Responds within 1 hr
  • Los Angeles, CA
SuperHost
Bright Open Studio In Heritage Building
  • $80/hr
  • New
  • 5.0 (113)
  • 113
  • Instant book
  • Responds within 1 hr
  • Vancouver, BC
SuperHost
Bright Industrial Photo Studio
  • $75/hr
  • New
  • 4.9 (83)
  • 83
  • Instant book
  • Responds within 1 hr
  • Vancouver, BC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an average Photo Shoot location cost to rent?
Photo Shoot location rates typically average $72 per hour.
What is the attendee limitation of average Photo Shoot locations?
Attendee limits often vary with the size and features of a Photo Shoot location, but average 30 people per booking.
What is the average hourly minimum of Photo Shoot locations?
The average minimum booking time for Photo Shoot locations is 2 hours.
What is the average square feet of a Photo Shoot location?
There's a great range of Photo Shoot locations available, with an average size of 973 square feet.
What are the most popular Photo Shoot locations on Giggster?

Find Photo Shoot locations

About Photo Shoots

The key ingredient to a successful photo shoot is the location. The best location is vital for creating images that don’t just meet the brief but are truly exceptional. This is why location scouting for a photo session is a very important step in the pre-planning stage of your photo session.

Of course, the right venue will vary depending on the subject matter of your photography. From romantic wedding photography to a casual family photo session, corporate brand shots to freestyle creative sessions, the setting you need can change dramatically from one project to the next.

Whether you’re a family photographer, a wedding photographer, or someone who works across various photography styles, you’ll find a wonderfully diverse range of unique photo shoot venues out there. It’s just a matter of looking around for an amazing location that matches your needs to a T.

The Best Photo Shoot Venues

How do you find the best location? It all depends on what you want to get out of the photo session, so it’s essential to have a clear creative vision before you start comparing options.

Think about what you want to achieve, the look and feel you want to capture in your images, and then start scouting a venue that matches all your needs. Here are a few popular options worth considering.

  • Studios
    Photography studios offer excellent versatility and practicality. They offer the right lighting, the best backdrops and props, and all the facilities you need for a stress-free and successful shoot. Family photographers often conduct photo sessions inside studios where they can instruct family members to make poses for the camera. With its eclectic design and colorful sets, this Baroque studio is sure to catch the eye.

  • Industrial Settings
    Old industrial buildings can add a truly unique mood to any space. Some spaces have a vibe that speaks to hard work and sweat, some give an insight into the marvels of manufacturing, and then there are those with more of a creepy abandoned feel.

  • Parks and Gardens
    From majestic oak trees to grassy meadows, landscaped areas, and colorful spring blooms, parks and gardens offer a diverse variety of settings for memorable photos. Best of all, they can offer a completely new look and feel at different times of the year, so it’s worth exploring the many creative opportunities they offer. With gravel paths and walking trails, these are ideal for family photography and engagement photo sessions.

  • Loft Spaces
    We all know just how important the right lighting is for successful shoots—something that a loft space does naturally well. Known for their large windows, natural light, and bright space, loft venues often yield beautiful photos. Many also offer interesting architectural features that can add an extra layer of interest to any image.

  • Private Homes
    The best thing about private homes is that they come in all manner of shapes, sizes, and designs. Whether you want a retro or modern feel, Scandi architecture, mid-century modern decor, a spacious mansion, or a humble family home, you’ll find homes to suit your photography needs. The interior of a private home is best for a family photo session or any photography style that requires a more intimate, casual atmosphere.

What to Look for in Photo Shoot Spaces

Choosing a location for your next photoshoot can be challenging. There are many different factors you need to consider before deciding on a space, so here’s what you need to take into account when comparing venues.

  • The Right Look
    The best venue creates the right ambiance and atmosphere you want to capture in your photos. And while architecture, decor, and props all play a part, the key factor in getting the pictures you want is lighting. Natural light is often the best solution, so remember to visit the space at the same time of day you’ll be shooting before deciding whether it’s right for you.

  • A Great Location
    There are a lot of moving parts that need to come together to set up a successful photography session. Make it easier by finding a space that’s easy to access for you and your crew. Think about travel times and traffic congestion, whether there’s private parking available, and whether it’s easy to bring in props, products, and models.

  • Essential Amenities and Equipment
    Now it’s time to consider all the facilities a photography venue must have for your project. Put together a list of must-have services to help you compare locations and narrow down your options. For instance, note if there is plenty of lighting, Wi-Fi, AV equipment, bathrooms, dressing rooms, and a kitchen.

  • The Perfect Price
    Last but not least, work out a budget before you start scouting locations. You might be surprised how much money you can save on venue hire if you’re willing to search around for the right space.

Photo Shoot Inspiration: Beautiful Backdrop Locations

Searching for some ideas to help you find the ideal spot for your next photo shoot? Here are a few ideas to get you thinking.

  • Setting the Scene
    Studios are flexible and practical, and there are some venues out there that have everything you need to arrange any scene you can imagine. Whether you’re recreating a hospital room, a school classroom, or an interrogation room, this versatile studio space has beautiful backdrops for an extensive range of projects.

  • On the Farm
    There’s nothing quite like a rustic setting to lend an authentic rural vibe to your images. Whether you’re showcasing a fashion line, a rugged SUV, or anything in between, heading to a country farm, ranch, or even a wildflower field will lead to a spectacular photo shoot.

  • Urban Jungle
    Deep in the heart of a big city, you’ll find all manner of unique locations. From secluded private courtyards to graffiti-covered alleyways, hidden doorways to reminders of the distant past, a diverse range of locations are just waiting to be discovered amid the urban jungle. In Las Vegas, for example, you’ll find plenty of rooftop locations where you can take incredible photos of the Strip.

  • Incredible Industrial Spaces
    Old industrial buildings can bring a unique atmosphere to any project. Some have been lovingly restored, others simply left to decay, but all offer something different.

With enough research and clear goals for your project, you’ll be able to snag the ideal venue. A great place to start when researching photo shoot locations is online websites that allow you to explore various listings in an area. In choosing a location, remember to keep in mind factors such as your desired aesthetic, your budget, and the venue’s accessibility to ensure that you and your team have a fun photo shoot that yields beautiful photos!

A photographer standing on ice trying to catch a photo of the sunrise over downtown Chicago.
Scott Olson // Getty Images

How much photographers get paid in 20 major metros

In a world where 85% of American adults own a smartphone, photography has become an accessible hobby for virtually anyone. Yet professional photographers are still in high demand. The number of professional photographers in the next 10 years is expected to grow by 9%—nearly double the average projected growth rate across all industries—according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

There are an estimated 38,420 working photographers in the United States. The career path offers myriad focus areas, such as wedding and event photography, family portraiture, headshots, photojournalism, advertising, fashion, and magazine shoots. A rapidly growing sector is stock photography; other photography jobs may focus on architecture, automobiles, landscapes, or science.

Giggster analyzed May 2021 data from the BLS to determine the hourly and annual wages of photographers across 20 of the most populated metropolitan areas. Metros are listed alphabetically and include the main city along with surrounding towns and suburbs.

The BLS categorizes photographers as photographing landscapes, merchandise, people, or other subjects. These workers may use lighting when shooting a subject to enhance certain features and employ editing software when producing prints or images. The occupational field includes science photographers, photojournalists, and commercial and industrial photographers; it excludes similar professions such as camera operators, video and film, and television.

Averages and medians were calculated to broaden the scope of annual and hourly wages. An average is calculated by adding all the salaries and dividing by the number of salaries used. The median is calculated by the middle point, where half the salaries are higher, and half are lower.

The average hourly wage for photographers in the U.S. is $23.18, with an average annual wage of $48,210. When calculating by median, the hourly wage for photographers is $18.73, with an annual wage of $38,950.

Keep reading to see how much photographers are paid in 20 major metros.

A person on a downtown balcony with a long-lens camera pointed at the sky.
cendhika // Shutterstock

Atlanta

- Photographers in metro: 1,100
- Average annual wage: $63,580
- Median annual wage: $61,000
- Average hourly wage: $30.57
- Median hourly wage: $29.33

A person holding a camera on a boat with an American flag in the background.
Roman Babakin // Shutterstock

Boston

- Photographers in metro: 530
- Average annual wage: $55,270
- Median annual wage: $50,340
- Average hourly wage: $26.57
- Median hourly wage: $24.20

A person photographing a couple in wedding attire in front of a sculpture in downtown Chicago.
Anne Richard // Shutterstock

Chicago

- Photographers in metro: 1,390
- Average annual wage: $53,340
- Median annual wage: $46,910
- Average hourly wage: $25.64
- Median hourly wage: $22.55

A view of downtown with a photographer taking pictures of two people in the foreground.
Anne Kitzman // Shutterstock

Cincinnati

- Photographers in metro: 340
- Average annual wage: $41,790
- Median annual wage: $36,510
- Average hourly wage: $20.09
- Median hourly wage: $17.56

A person taking a photograph of downtown Dallas with a tripod on the edge of water.
Nat Chittamai // Shutterstock

Dallas-Fort Worth

- Photographers in metro: 970
- Average annual wage: $44,440
- Median annual wage: $36,100
- Average hourly wage: $21.37
- Median hourly wage: $17.36

A person taking images of a botanical garden.
Page Light Studios // Shutterstock

Denver

- Photographers in metro: 520
- Average annual wage: $53,180
- Median annual wage: $45,340
- Average hourly wage: $25.57
- Median hourly wage: $21.80

The Detroit skyline at sunset.
Canva

Detroit

- Photographers in metro: 380
- Average annual wage: $52,390
- Median annual wage: $38,590
- Average hourly wage: $25.19
- Median hourly wage: $18.55

Downtown Houston buildings at sunset.
Canva

Houston

- Photographers in metro: 780
- Average annual wage: $39,890
- Median annual wage: $33,750
- Average hourly wage: $19.18
- Median hourly wage: $16.23

A photographer snaps a photo of a family from their car.
Ethan Miller // Getty Images

Las Vegas

- Photographers in metro: 400
- Average annual wage: $33,500
- Median annual wage: $30,220
- Average hourly wage: $16.11
- Median hourly wage: $14.53

A photographer in all black wearing two cameras around his neck, with boats and palm trees in the background.
Kit Leong // Shutterstock

Los Angeles

- Photographers in metro: estimate not available
- Average annual wage: $51,340
- Median annual wage: $46,550
- Average hourly wage: $24.68
- Median hourly wage: $22.38

A photographer and their assistants taking photos of someone on the beach with a red and white striped lifeguard stand  by the water.
Jan Schneckenhaus // Shutterstock

Miami

- Photographers in metro: 1,000
- Average annual wage: $53,090
- Median annual wage: $48,860
- Average hourly wage: $25.52
- Median hourly wage: $23.49

Photographers set up to shoot the Minneapolis skylie at twilight.
Sam Wagner // Shutterstock

Minneapolis-St. Paul

- Photographers in metro: 630
- Average annual wage: $49,380
- Median annual wage: $48,320
- Average hourly wage: $23.74
- Median hourly wage: $23.23

Photographers taking images of Manhattan at sunset from the water.
Eileen_10 // Shutterstock

New York City

- Photographers in metro: 3,260
- Average annual wage: $62,730
- Median annual wage: $55,770
- Average hourly wage: $30.16
- Median hourly wage: $26.81

A person taking a photo of a "Love" sign in Philadelphia.
Raymond Well // Shutterstock

Philadelphia

- Photographers in metro: 560
- Average annual wage: $47,050
- Median annual wage: $43,000
- Average hourly wage: $22.62
- Median hourly wage: $20.67

Two people sitting in a stone lookout while one of them photographs the view of Phoenix.
Gregory E. Clifford // Shutterstock

Phoenix

- Photographers in metro: 690
- Average annual wage: $44,590
- Median annual wage: $32,920
- Average hourly wage: $21.44
- Median hourly wage: $15.83

A photographer walks in front of a wedding party on a San Francisco street.
drserg // Shutterstock

San Francisco

- Photographers in metro: 770
- Average annual wage: $66,140
- Median annual wage: $59,100
- Average hourly wage: $31.80
- Median hourly wage: $28.41

A photographer takes images on a tripod over downtown.
EB Adventure Photography // Shutterstock

Seattle

- Photographers in metro: 630
- Average annual wage: $65,810
- Median annual wage: $74,880
- Average hourly wage: $31.64
- Median hourly wage: $36.00

A photographer shines a light on a graduate in a cap and gown in a field of sunflowers.
matthew Munsell // Shutterstock

St. Louis

- Photographers in metro: 300
- Average annual wage: $41,270
- Median annual wage: $36,640
- Average hourly wage: $19.84
- Median hourly wage: $17.61

A photography team setting up equipment among the palm trees.
Yes I Shoot models // Shutterstock

Tampa

- Photographers in metro: 480
- Average annual wage: $38,020
- Median annual wage: $29,780
- Average hourly wage: $18.28
- Median hourly wage: $14.32

A wedding couple looking at photos on their photographer's camera among the cherry blossom trees.
Malachi Jacobs // Shutterstock

Washington DC

- Photographers in metro: 650
- Average annual wage: $70,440
- Median annual wage: $60,720
- Average hourly wage: $33.86
- Median hourly wage: $29.19