As a portrait photographer, one part of my work is looking for locations and scouting sites. This is one of the many stages of the creative process that I truly enjoy.

I live in a beautiful county where the landscape and geography are very diverse. I use the opportunity to photograph people as a way to explore the area where I live. 

Some people request a certain location, and others ask me to select the place. Thinking of each client and what kind of spot they may feel most comfortable in, and what their vision is for the shoot is a good challenge. It’s a matchmaking process.

When people show up for the shoot, they have no idea how many details I have considered: sunlight, shadows, wind, time of sunset, parking and so much more. I try to make the process seamless and easy, but I always know to expect curveballs.

One location at the edge of the ocean has beautiful rock formations and is a stunning backdrop. I photographed a high school senior here and this spot was not far from his house.

Often I think of how people may feel in the settings I select. Will they feel more comfortable in a less busy area?

Or if are they like the band, Próxima Parada, we might end up at a more public setting like the city park shown here.  

Rows of sunflowers at the entry to a local vineyard was a striking place to photograph another high school senior. Her mom, a dear friend of mine, suggested this location that I had not seen before.

It is an honor for me to photograph others. What I desire is for people to feel comfortable in front of my lens. This is my ultimate goal.

Every person I have photographed has made me grow as an artist. I hope they know how much I appreciate their trust in me.

I would like my photo shoots to provide an opportunity to leave self judgement and self criticism behind.

I encourage people to be present to the beautiful surroundings.

At many test shoots, my family will join me, and sometimes they turn the camera on me.

With love, Carolyn