What do you say to other photographers when they ask about your locations

So I just posted some photos that I did for a couple. The pictures were down outside at a local park. This park does not get very busy which I love and not many photographers use it or are aware about it.

I just had a photographer ask me where the location is. Should I tell them where it is or should I not? What would you do?

Why wouldn't you? Their photos are never going to be the same as yours.

mikekelley wrote in post #17072409
Why wouldn't you? Their photos are never going to be the same as yours.

My concern is the area becoming too popular and getting more traffic.

But you mention other photographers, which implies a worry that other photographers may use it.
I don't think it's a big deal. Just be nice to people. It's not a top-secret DEFCON type of thing. Pay it forward...

mikekelley wrote in post #17072419
But you mention other photographers, which implies a worry that other photographers may use it.
I don't think it's a big deal. Just be nice to people. It's not a top-secret DEFCON type of thing. Pay it forward...

I just get concerned because a spot I used to go to all the time has recently become WAY too popular with photographers. To the point you have to stand and wait for them to be done so you can have a chance.

But I really appreciate your input. I am going to just tell them where it is. I just wanted others opinions first before I said anything!

How did YOU find it?

If they ask and they are an acquaintance I will probably tell them. Random photographers don't really ask as the only place they could is on my Facebook page however I delete photographers who are fans anyway.

I'm not really bothered if someone does find out where I have shot because if I've shot there a few times I'd be getting bored with it anyway and already be looking for new places myself. I like to keep things fresh.

memoriesoftomorrow wrote in post #17072746
I like to keep things fresh.

Indeed, I get bored with the same location too. I know a few photographers that use the same location for nearly all their engagement sessions/high school seniors. Gets quite repetitive and shows in the images over a short time.

I just had a photographer ask me where the location is. Should I tell them where it is or should I not?

You should tell them, if you want more people/photographers to know about it.


What would you do?

I would not tell anyone.

There are a few good spots in town that aren't overrun with anyone with a camera. I go exploring and find awesome spots and it makes people excited to be able to go get their photos done in places that hardly anyone else goes. If you look at wedding photographers websites in my town you see all the same locations and nothing stands out so to have a handful of places that no one knows about or private properties that I've been allowed to shoot on sticks out a little bit more.

Proprietary information. If they can't figure it our why would you ruin your spots. Down here the charter boat fishermen do not allow GPS or camera phones so they can keep their fishing spots secret.

I doubt telling one person is going to result in a crowded situation. You could even relay your fear to him of it being overcrowded, in an attempt to keep it low key.
But I have never understood this fear that if some knows a spot, technique, etc. gloom and doom will happen.

If it's a common spot, I'll tell them. But there's a few spots that are my "Gems" and I just tell them that it was private property. Then I suggest a 'common' place that is similar to it.

BobDawg wrote in post #17075549
If it's a common spot, I'll tell them. But there's a few spots that are my "Gems" and I just tell them that it was private property. Then I suggest a 'common' place that is similar to it.

You answered it well. Sharing is caring...

memoriesoftomorrow wrote in post #17072746
If they ask and they are an acquaintance I will probably tell them. Random photographers don't really ask as the only place they could is on my Facebook page however I delete photographers who are fans anyway.

That is one of the weirdest statements I've ever read on this forum.