1. Is this location publicly or privately owned?
Public Locations: parks, preservations/preserves
These locations are more flexible and you'll need to ask less questions, BUT you may want to scope out the area before a session. Typically, there are not fees. It may be a popular spot for other photographers or the public for parties so check it out beforehand.
Privately Owned Locations: greenhouses, businesses, privately owned land
Here is where you'll need to do your research and ask the questions I've highlighted below. Remember, be kind and courteous when calling and when you are on location. Also, ask your photographer if they will take care of the logistics (I usually do for all my sessions).
2. Are there any fees?
Check websites or place a phone call for Admission/Entry fees. Do you have to pay to get into the location? Botanical gardens usually have an admission fee PLUS a fee for the photographer to shoot there.
Since you are already paying for the session, I typically like to find places that are free to shoot at or doesn't cost clients additional money to be there.
Photographer fees - Des Moines Botanical Garden and Reiman Gardens in Ames both have admission ticket fees plus additional fees and policies for photographers to follow. The Brenton Arboretum is actually privately owned and is free for the public, but requires photographers to have a membership to shoot there.
Many photographers hold memberships or passes to certain places, so don't be afraid to ask if there is a location that you love.
3. Are there busy hours or events held at the location?
Indoor locations and businesses may have busy/peak hours. I recommend bypassing those times to avoid people in the background, disrupting business and having more flexibility for your session backdrops.
Some locations have event calendars on their websites (ex. kid activities, private parties, public meetings, etc.) so you can keep an eye on what is going on at the location before you get there. The last thing you want for a session is to run into a family reunion potluck or a conservation expert talking about bald eagles nesting in the area.
4. Is there a manager or contact to connect with?
A manager or contact for the location you are trying to shoot at is especially helpful with indoor locations and businesses. As the photographer, I will usually make the connection and iron out all the detials, BUT if you have a connection to a location that you really love then it really is about who you know.
Example: You are friends with someone who owns a beautiful wooded area behind their house, feel free to ask that friend for permission to get your dream location.
Examples
Greenhouse in Ames
I called and was able to talk to the manager of the greenhouse (and get his name). He gave me permission to come take photos there, and I made sure to ask for their busy times. It is a business, after all, and I don't want to hinder that. ALSO, I don't want to deal with a lot of people in the area because that limits where my clients and I can be and take photos.
Usery Mountain Regional Park in Arizona
I called to confirm the hours of the park. There was a parking fee to get into the park, but no fees for photographers to take photos there.
Howe's Welding & Metal Fabrication
I actually wanted access to the land behind this local business so I reached out to the owner to ask for access (and the ability for me and my clients to park there). I arrived early to introduce myself to the owner, and he gave me a little walk around the area and the backstory of the business.
