10 great free locations to photograph models in the North East

10 great free locations to photograph models in the North East

 

The Art of Location Scouting: Finding the Perfect Backdrop for Your Photos

Working with models introduces a dynamic layer of creativity to photography, but finding the ideal location for a shoot can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle in a whirlwind. This article dives into the challenges—and joys—of scouting locations that elevate your work and fit your client’s vision.

Beyond the Studio: Embracing the Outdoors

Studio shoots are a photographer’s sanctuary—controlled lighting, predictable setups, and minimal surprises. But not every project stays within those four walls. Clients often want to venture outdoors, which can push even seasoned photographers out of their comfort zones. The open air brings beauty and spontaneity but also comes with unpredictable light, shifting weather, and less controllable environments. Still, this unpredictability can yield some of the most breathtaking shots if you prepare well.

The Evolution of Location Scouting

Gone are the days when scouting meant driving aimlessly for hours or pedaling through neighborhoods with nothing but hope and a camera. While exploring on foot or by car still has its merits, modern technology has transformed how we find, document, and organize potential shooting spots.

That said, there’s no substitute for experiencing locations firsthand. Walking through a space allows you to observe the light, textures, and unique elements that make it special. If you’re on a walk, drive, or bike ride, make your smartphone your most powerful tool. Utilize GPS to drop pins and take detailed notes when you spot promising areas. There’s nothing worse than coming across a dream location and forgetting where it was when it’s time to shoot.

Leverage Technology for Maximum Efficiency

A decade ago, the go-to tool for note-taking might have been a trusty notebook and pen. Today, your smartphone is a game-changer. Apps with built-in GPS tagging, like your camera app or mapping tools, can save your location alongside a snapshot. This not only helps you remember the exact spot but also gives you a visual reference to show clients or plan compositions in advance.

Using your phone or a compact point-and-shoot camera for test shots is incredibly helpful. Take photos at different angles and at varying times of day to see how light interacts with the space. These snapshots can guide your gear choices—will you need a wide-angle lens to capture expansive views, or a telephoto for intimate, focused shots?

The Beauty of Preparation Meets Spontaneity

Location scouting isn’t just about efficiency; it’s an exercise in creativity. Even with all the technology at your fingertips, the magic happens when you let the environment inspire you. A quirky alleyway, an unexpected bloom of wildflowers, or a sunlit rooftop could be the perfect match for your concept.

By blending traditional exploration with modern tools, you can streamline the scouting process without losing the serendipity that makes outdoor photography so thrilling. Whether you’re shooting an ethereal editorial or a bold urban campaign, a well-chosen location sets the stage for unforgettable work.

So, pack your smartphone, an open mind, and maybe a spare battery. Adventure awaits, and your next iconic shoot might be just around the corner.

THE 1766 MAUSOLEUM SEATON DELIVAL

Seaton Delaval Hall, nestled in the picturesque Seaton Valley of Northumberland, boasts a stunning architectural treasure—the 1766 Mausoleum. Standing as the centerpiece of a scenic walk east of the Hall, this striking structure overlooks sweeping parkland to the south, creating an atmosphere brimming with drama and elegance. With its timeless charm and gothic allure, the mausoleum is a dream setting for a model shoot, particularly for themes inspired by medieval or gothic aesthetics.

Once roofless and weathered by graffiti and vandalism, the mausoleum has been beautifully restored. Recent conservation efforts have not only repaired the building but also enhanced its surrounding high walls, reducing deterioration and infusing the area with a renewed sense of grandeur. Now, this historic site offers a captivating backdrop that blends haunting beauty with natural splendor, making it an unforgettable location for photography and artistic expression.

THE SWING BRIDGE NEWCASTLE

The Swing Bridge, gracefully spanning the River Tyne between Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead, is a striking landmark that offers an exceptional backdrop for a model shoot. Nestled between the iconic Tyne Bridge and the historic High Level Bridge, this location blends industrial charm with sweeping river views, making it perfect for capturing bold and dynamic images.

Whether you’re looking for dramatic cityscapes or the contrast of elegant fashion against the bridge’s architectural lines, the Swing Bridge provides a versatile and visually stunning setting. Its timeless appeal and prime location on the bustling Quayside make it an ideal choice for photographers and models seeking an unforgettable shoot location.

TANFIELD RAILWAY

Step back in time and capture history in motion at Tanfield Railway, the world’s oldest operational railway, dating back to 1725. Originally built to transport coal from local mines to the River Tyne, this enchanting location is steeped in industrial heritage and charm. The railway is renowned for its historic waggonways, narrow-gauge tracks that once carried coal to the river—features that create an authentically vintage and dramatic setting.

Tanfield Railway is a phenomenal choice for a model shoot, offering endless creative possibilities. Picture your model posed against the backdrop of steam-powered locomotives, rustic tracks, and atmospheric station platforms that exude timeless elegance. The rugged beauty of the surrounding landscapes and the authentic industrial details make this location perfect for themes ranging from vintage fashion to edgy, avant-garde looks. For photographers and models, Tanfield Railway is more than a photoshoot venue—it’s a journey into a bygone era, rich with texture and storytelling potential.

DURHAM CATHEDRAL

Durham Cathedral, located in the city of Durham in northeast England, is renowned for its stunning Norman architecture and serves as a prime location for photography. Here are some key highlights and tips for photographing the cathedral:

Architectural Highlights

1. Romanesque Style: Built between 1093 and 1133, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture, especially notable for its massive Romanesque style.
2. Central Nave: The cathedral boasts one of the largest and most magnificent naves in Europe, with soaring columns and a highly detailed ceiling.
3. Triforium: The triforium gallery is an intriguing architectural feature, providing a great opportunity for photographers to capture different angles of the interior.
4. Clerestory Windows: These high windows allow natural light to flood into the cathedral, creating dramatic lighting effects that photographers often capture, especially at sunrise or sunset.
5. Chapter House and Crypt: These spaces offer quieter, less-crowded locations for photos, showcasing intricate carvings and unique architectural features.

Photography Tips

1. Golden Hour: Early morning or late afternoon are great times for capturing the cathedral’s exterior, with soft, warm light illuminating the stone.
2. Interior Shots: The cathedral’s interior is known for its impressive arches and detailed stonework. Be mindful of the lighting conditions—using a tripod and adjusting your ISO can help achieve sharp, high-quality shots in dim conditions.
3. Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture the full grandeur of the cathedral’s interior and exterior.
4. Details: Look for interesting details such as carved stone, stained glass, and the intricate patterns in the stonework.

Durham Cathedral and Surrounding Areas

• The cathedral sits on a hill above the River Wear, so shots from the nearby bridges or vantage points across the river can provide stunning views.
• The cloisters, gardens, and the cathedral grounds offer peaceful settings for detailed shots and broader perspectives.

EAST BOLDEN WW11 BARRACKS

Boldon WWII Site – A Hidden Gem for Model Photoshoots

Tucked away on the outskirts of East Boldon near Sunderland Greyhound Stadium, this former World War II site is a strikingly atmospheric location with immense creative potential for a model photoshoot. Though currently derelict, the site’s raw, weathered aesthetic offers a unique backdrop that combines industrial grit with historical intrigue.

The sprawling grounds feature five concrete-reinforced bunkers, once used for ammunition storage, and a hangar built for munitions production. Adding to the character are a rustic cottage, offices, and an old firehouse—each with their own distinctive charm. The graffiti-splashed walls and abandoned structures create an edgy, post-apocalyptic vibe, ideal for high-fashion editorial shoots, urban streetwear, or even conceptual, avant-garde themes.

With its haunting beauty and untouched authenticity, this hidden gem is a photographer’s dream and a model’s playground. The mix of rugged industrial textures and echoes of history make it a location brimming with storytelling possibilities and perfect for capturing unforgettable imagery.

DURHAM STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

The North East is home to some fantastic streets, and Durham City is a prime example, blending historic charm with modern touches. While stepping outside with your camera during a downpour might not seem appealing, rainy weather presents a unique opportunity to capture distinctive and compelling street scenes.

The rain brings life to the streets—umbrellas, cascading raindrops, and people dashing for cover add movement and interest to your shots. If you’re concerned about getting drenched, you can find shelter in a doorway or use an umbrella to protect both yourself and your camera. Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check Google Street View to identify potential spots to duck into during heavy rain.

After the rain clears, the streets transform into a photographer’s playground. Puddles and wet surfaces create beautiful reflections and intriguing angles, adding depth and creativity to your compositions. Don’t let the weather keep you indoors—embrace it for the unique photographic opportunities it provides!

YARM TOWN

Yarm is a photographer’s paradise, with its charming back lanes and side streets that perfectly blend historic character with modern flair. The High Street offers a wealth of photogenic props, including elegant Edwardian buildings adorned with wrought iron railings and classic red telephone boxes. These features create a picturesque setting, ideal for capturing distinctive and captivating street scenes. Whether you’re exploring its quirky hidden corners or focusing on the timeless charm of its iconic landmarks, Yarm provides endless inspiration for photography enthusiasts.

MULTI STORY CAR PARKS

Photography in multi-story car parks offers unique creative and practical benefits, especially for photographers, urban planners, and businesses. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:

1. Creative and Aesthetic Exploration

• Architectural Patterns: Multi-story car parks feature repetitive patterns, lines, and geometric shapes that create visually striking compositions.
• Lighting Opportunities: Natural light filters through gaps and creates dynamic shadows, while artificial lights such as neon, fluorescent, or LEDs provide dramatic effects, especially at night.
• Urban Grit and Texture: These locations often have a raw, industrial feel that lends itself to urban and street photography.
• Reflections and Symmetry: Polished floors, mirrors, or puddles often found in car parks create opportunities for symmetrical or reflective photography.

2. Versatile Shooting Environments

• Controlled Atmosphere: Car parks offer a semi-enclosed, weather-resistant environment, making them ideal for shooting in various weather conditions.
• Backdrop for Portraits and Fashion: The minimalist and edgy vibe provides an interesting contrast for portrait or fashion photography.
• Vehicle Photography: These spaces are perfect for shooting cars due to ample room and controlled lighting conditions.

3. Storytelling and Conceptual Photography

• Urban Life and Isolation: The emptiness or busyness of a car park can evoke feelings of solitude or urban bustle, providing a setting for storytelling.
• Symbolism: Multi-story car parks can symbolize urbanization, progress, or decay, lending depth to conceptual photography.

4. Practical and Commercial Uses

• Marketing and Advertising: Automotive brands and urban apparel companies frequently use car parks for their photoshoots to highlight modern, edgy aesthetics.
• Cinematography and Music Videos: The unique look of multi-story car parks makes them a popular setting for film scenes and music videos.
• Event Photography: Some car parks host events like car shows or urban art exhibitions, which can be documented for promotional purposes.

5. Accessibility

• Easily Available Locations: Multi-story car parks are present in most urban areas, making them convenient spots for photographers to explore.
• Cost-Effectiveness: They are generally inexpensive or free to access, offering budget-friendly options for creative projects.

6. Enhancing Skills and Experimentation

• Challenging Lighting Conditions: Limited natural light and artificial sources encourage photographers to develop skills in exposure, ISO adjustments, and creative use of shadows.
• Unique Angles and Perspectives: Exploring ramps, elevated views, and underground sections fosters creativity and perspective-based shooting.

7. Cultural and Urban Documentation

• Historical Significance: Older car parks may reflect the architectural style of their era and document urban development over time.
• Community Spaces: In some cities, these spaces serve as cultural hubs for activities like street art, skating, or dance, providing a chance to capture subcultures.

Multi-story car parks are often overlooked but serve as rich, inspiring canvases for photographers to explore creativity and hone their craft.

INFINITY BRIDGE STOCKTON ON TEES

The Infinity Bridge, an architectural marvel spanning the River Tees in Stockton-on-Tees, offers a breathtaking setting for a model shoot that’s as dynamic as it is picturesque. Located just a kilometer downriver from Stockton town center, between the Princess of Wales Bridge and the Tees Barrage, this iconic pedestrian and cycle footbridge seamlessly connects the Teesdale Business Park with the University of Durham’s Queen’s Campus in Thornaby-on-Tees.

The bridge’s sleek, modern design—highlighted by its distinctive double arches and captivating reflections on the water—provides a stunning visual centerpiece for any photoshoot. Whether you’re aiming for high-fashion glamour, contemporary style, or urban sophistication, this all-year-round location has it all. Plus, with plenty of sheltered spots to duck under in case of unpredictable weather, the Infinity Bridge ensures your creative vision won’t be interrupted. It’s the perfect canvas for photographers and models alike to craft unforgettable images!

FINCHALE PRIORY

Nestled in a lush, wooded loop of the River Wear, Finchale Priory is a location that blends history, beauty, and drama—an absolute treasure for a model photoshoot. Dating back to the 12th century, this enchanting ruin was originally the hermitage of the fascinating St. Godric, a sailor-turned-pilgrim who chose Finchale as his sanctuary. Later transformed into a priory and eventually a retreat for Durham monks, its weathered stone walls and timeless atmosphere tell a story that spans centuries.

This picturesque setting offers endless creative possibilities for a photoshoot. Imagine your model framed by the hauntingly beautiful arches of the priory, evoking gothic or medieval elegance, or contrasting modern fashion against the rugged, historic backdrop. The interplay of light and shadow through the ancient ruins and the serene natural surroundings add depth and drama to any composition.

Whether you’re creating ethereal, romantic portraits or bold, avant-garde imagery, Finchale Priory provides the perfect stage for breathtaking shots. Its unique combination of historical intrigue and scenic beauty makes it an unparalleled location for photographers and models alike.