Top 10 Photoshoot Locations in Sacramento
THE ICE BLOCKS:
The Iceblocks get its name from its origins. This corridor used to be home to a lot of warehouses and industry along the rail line that Sac RT uses now. The Iceblocks used to be a warehouse where literal Iceblocks were made for refrigeration. It’s now home to many local and national retailers and restaurants. The industrial design is a wonderful contrast and backdrop for feminine and flowing outfits, and a compliment to more androgynous and masculine styles. Venture out a block or two in any direction and you will find gorgeous murals and street art you could use as a backdrop as well!
ROOFTOPS DOWNTOWN:
Sacramento has many amazing rooftop vistas and locations you can shoot in! Make your way to the top of any parking garage in the midtown sac or downtown sac area and the city will open up to you as a gorgeous backdrop! Be sure to check ahead of time for parking fees, and closure times. Be aware of your surroundings and the possibility of busy structures depending on the day of the week. We still have California State employees who park for work. :)
COLORFUL ALLEYS:
You do not have to go far in any direction of “The Grid” to find colorful homes, and alleyways that you can have a photoshoot in. The Grid is what Sacramento locals lovingly refer to the midtown and downtown areas of the city. The numbered and lettered streets are in a grid with many alleyways to choose from. Hints: Fremont Park and Hotboys Chicken are close by the locations above and below this paragraph. Happy hunting fellow photographers and models!
CAPITOL PARK:
Sacramento is the Capitol of California and we are lucky enough to have the Capitol Park to use for photoshoots all year round! The park is made up of all the flora and fauna across California. You can walk all around the park and use its multitude of natural areas as backdrops. They have a rose garden, trees of all kinds, cactus garden, herb garden, and also the State Capitol Building!
MURAL ON R st:
If your client is feeling a bit groovy we have the perfect mural for you to use as your backdrop! Hidden in the alleyway is this giant mural that you can use to accentuate the 70s prints, colors, and vibes of your clients style. The lines and colors can be used as importation for poses and framing while you’re there. I suggest bringing gloves and trash bags to clean up any unwanted trash in the area. It is not uncommon for there to be litter around any outdoor areas and it is our job to help leave every space we go to better than it was when we got there. This spot has free parking close by so it’s also very cost effective! Yay!
AMERICAN RIVER:
Being in Sacramento is such a gift. We have so much nature surrounding us and winding through our cities. The American River can be the perfect backdrop to your client’s portrait sessions. It’s important that you bring exact cash for parking if you’re entering any American River Parkway areas as they do not take cards or have change! But it is so worth it when you reach the beach for your photoshoot. Going early in the morning or at golden hour (the hour or two before the sun sets) is the perfect time to go. The lighting is spectacular and generally quiet. We do warn you that the water is COLD! Be prepared to get a little wet as you're moving to get the shot. It is a natural preserve and there will be wild animals about during certain times of day. Turkeys, deer, rattle snakes, and wildcats can all be found along the American River so be aware of your surrounds!
DOCO:
DOCO - short for Downtown Commons, this outdoor pavilion is home to many amazing eateries, shopping, and the Golden 1 Center which hosts many major concerts and is the home of the Sacramento Kings Basketball team.
If you’re planning to have a photoshoot here DO NOT FOGET TO AQUIRE A PERMIT! DOCO does not allow photoshoots without prior written consent. Read up on it here!
PRAIRIE CITY:
Prairie City is on the border of Rancho Cordova and Folsom, CA. It’s a large State Vehicular Recreation Area where motocross and off roading enthusiasts enjoy the open air and motor sounds. One of my favorite Senior clients did motocross and requested her shoot be there. The images turned our AMAZING and ever since I’ve wanted to go back. If you have a client who loves motar bikes or 4-wheel driving then heading to Prairie City should be on your list!
GIBSON RANCH:
Gibson Ranch Recreational Park is a 355 acre facility with many locations to choose from. Bring cash for parking or you won’t be able to get in! This Regional park in Sacramento County has a lake, nature reserve, soccer fields, equestrian center, and various picnic areas to choose from. Whatever style of outdoor photoshoot you’re looking to do could be achieved at this park. (Just don’t forget to bring exact cash for parking!) Located off Watt AVE it is a central destination for Sac County residents.
LMCP STUDIOS:
Lacey M. Carroll Photography has a professional photo studio in Sacramento! I LOVE using my backdrops, colors, and studio lights to convey all kinds of styles and vibes. There is a meadow close by clients and I will walk to when the wildflowers are blooming, and if you’re looking for a fun Plan Springs vibe, I have plenty of Palm Trees in the parking lot. :) In the sweltering Sacramento heat having a studio is the perfect getaway. My studio is home to the LMC Style Closet too! When Tweens, Teens, and Seniors book a session with me they have access to my Style closet and receive a FashionConsult appointment with me where we style your looks for your photoshoot. Not just clothes! I have an accessory room filled with jewelry, bags, hair accessories, and sunglasses to add that final touch to your looks.