If you’re waiting until you arrive at your new assignment to start location scouting, you’re already a half-step behind! With the tools we have at our fingertips, virtual location scouting can make the transition to a new duty station much smoother. Let’s go through the simple 3-step process I use to scout photo locations before a PCS.

Step 1: Compile a List of Potential Locations

The first step in virtual location scouting is to build a list of potential photo spots. I use a few different sources to do this:

• Local photographers’ blogs and Instagram: While these can be great resources, some photographers don’t disclose specific locations, which can be frustrating.
• ChatGPT: This has become an invaluable tool for generating ideas! You can ask for popular photo spots or unique locations in your new city. For example, as I prepare for my move to Dayton, I’ve used ChatGPT to explore location suggestions.

Once you have a good starting list, it’s time to narrow it down using the next step.

Step 2: Evaluate Locations Using Google Maps

Google Maps is my go-to tool for virtually “visiting” potential photo locations. Here’s how I evaluate each spot:

• Search for the location: Use Google Maps to find the area and switch to Street View or user-uploaded photos to get a feel for the environment.
• Consider key criteria: Proximity to your home, the aesthetic of the location (e.g., light backgrounds, variety of scenery), and seasonal changes are all factors to weigh.
• Assess potential: Decide if the location is worth exploring further based on your style and the types of sessions you plan to offer.

Keep in mind that what you see on Google Maps won’t fully represent the experience of shooting there. For example, two of my favorite Virginia locations—Founders Park and Shipyard Park—looked underwhelming on Google Maps but turned out to be gems in person.

Step 3: Organize Your Locations with Google Lists

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to organize them. Google Maps makes this easy with its “Saved Places” feature. Here’s how I do it:

• Add each location to a custom Google List.
• Include notes about what makes the spot unique, the best time of day to shoot there, or any challenges you anticipate.
• Use the map view to visualize how far each location is from your home or each other.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Virtual location scouting is a game-changer for military spouse photographers. By compiling a list of options, evaluating them on Google Maps, and organizing your findings, you can hit the ground running when you arrive at your new location.

One last thing—I mentioned earlier that I dislike how some photographers gatekeep locations. 😉 Finding new spots can be overwhelming, and as military spouse photographers, we already face unique challenges. That’s why I created the Location Guides for Milspouse Photographers. These guides are written by fellow milspouses to help you navigate everything from permits to hidden gems in your new area.

If you’re moving soon, check out our interactive map to see if your next duty station has been covered. If not, I’d love for you to contribute once you’re settled in!

I hope this was helpful! Click below to watch the full video!

Are you a milspouse photographer? Be sure to check out the Location Guides for Milspouse Photographers blog series too! You can find other tips for moving your business on the blog too. Thanks for being here! 🤍