choosing the perfect location and outfit for a photoshoot

Couples / Family / Maternity / Mommy & Me / New Mexico / photography

Choosing the Perfect Photoshoot Location & Outfit in Carlsbad, New Mexico

July 9, 2025

Hey New Mexico Baddies, This One’s For You!

(Don’t worry Central Illinois—you’re up next.)

Let’s talk about something super important when planning your photo session: your location and your outfit. These two things are everything. They set the tone for your shoot, determine your color scheme, and influence the entire look and feel of your gallery.

Picking a location isn’t just about the “vibe”—it also affects how your outfits will photograph and how your photos will look hanging in your home. Let’s break it all down step-by-step.

Step One: Choose Your Location

Carlsbad may be a small town, but it packs a big punch when it comes to unique backdrops. Mountains, waterfalls, desert landscapes, funky urban alleys—we’ve got options.

Here’s what to think about when choosing your location:

📸 What’s the Purpose of Your Session?

Just for you? Awesome. If you’re printing an album or using them digitally, you’ve got more freedom with the backdrop.
Planning to hang them in your home? Think about your home’s decor—are your walls full of neutrals? Earth tones? Bright whites? Choose a location with colors and textures that will complement your space.

🌄 What’s the Vibe You’re Going For?

Do you want your photos to feel earthy, moody, fun, elegant, bold?
Each backdrop brings its own energy:

Mountains: Calm, natural, majestic
Urban: Edgy, colorful, fun
Desert: Raw, bold, minimalist
Waterfalls: Dreamy, romantic, natural

Once you know what feeling you’re going for, it becomes easier to lock in a spot.

Step Two: Pick Your Color Scheme

Now that you’ve got a general location in mind, it’s time to think about colors. This is one of the most overlooked steps, but it makes such a big difference in the final gallery.

Here’s my quick guide for what color palettes photograph best in each setting:

🌲 Mountains:

Stick with greens, blues, and neutrals like beige, cream, or taupe. You’ll blend beautifully while still standing out.

🏙 Urban:

This is your time to go bold! Bright reds, mustard yellows, turquoise, even funky patterns all work great against the concrete, brick, and steel.

🏜 Desert:

You can go two routes here:

Neutral tones like tan, white, soft sage, rust
Bold contrast colors like cobalt blue, burnt orange, deep burgundy

💦 Waterfall/Natural Water Features:

Neutrals are always a safe bet, but rich colors like emerald, navy, or warm earth tones can pop beautifully against water and greenery.

Step Three: Pick the Perfect Outfit

Ah yes—the hard part. I know choosing outfits can be overwhelming, especially for my ladies. So let’s break it down in a stress-free way.

✨ Want to stand out or blend in?

Ask yourself:

Do I want me to be the focal point? → Go bold.
Do I want the location to shine? → Stick to neutrals.

👗 What flatters you?

Start by identifying what you love about yourself. Accentuate that. Don’t love your arms? Add a light jacket. Want to hide your feet? Skip the open-toed shoes. This session is about feeling good in your skin.

👒 Tips for Standout Outfits:

Layering is 🔑. I know, I know—it’s hot in the desert, but even a light duster or vest adds texture and depth.
Accessories matter. Hats, chunky rings, earrings, layered necklaces—they add so much personality to your photos.
Flowy dresses and skirts photograph beautifully. They create movement, drama, and allow you to move freely.
Avoid tiny patterns or logos that can distract from your face.
Short dresses? Cute, but beware—they can cut your legs off at weird angles. Long is typically more flattering, but YOU do you!

🧍For the Men:

Brush your hair (yes, you).
Check those nails. Clean, trimmed, and maybe a clear coat if you’re feeling fancy.
Sweat easily? Pack a backup shirt or wear an undershirt. Easy fix, no stress.
Shoes matter—ditch the athletic sneakers unless we’re doing a full lifestyle vibe.

Bonus Tips from Your Photographer (That’s Me 💛)

Plan for comfort and style. If you’re miserable in what you’re wearing, it’ll show.
Bring backup shoes for walking between locations.
Keep a water bottle in your car—it’s New Mexico, after all.
Don’t stress too much—you are what makes these photos beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Planning your shoot doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the vibe, choose a location that complements it, and pick an outfit that makes you feel like the absolute star you are.

If you ever feel stuck—I’ve got you. Message me anytime, and I’ll help you piece it all together.