One of the challenges is to take images that are unique..... and getting ideas from other photographers generally produces cook cutter images.
Tom - to the defense of the original poster, the issues isn't that nature is boring, but portraits in nature when nature isn't the subject can tend to be way over used, not very unique, and often quit messy. When it does work, its spectacular, but most of the time, it doesn't. Its kind of like having the brides mom look better than the bride. It may be beautiful, but its not what was intended. Making sure it doesn't compete but compliments is sometimes tough...
OP... I don't do commercial photo shoots... well at least with models. I do more environmental portraits. A lot of times I have some location pre-invisioned. But more recently I have just done a walking tour with the subject and sought out locations that meant something to them. Last one was a pub that the subjects loved - it was for an engagement announcement - and so we stopped in and took pictures there. Another time we walked an old warehouse district looking for interesting backgrounds and light. It was one of those things that we knew it when we saw it. I do "street" style photography though, so its what I feel comfortable with.
The other issue is using commercial properties for arranged shoots. Be prepared to be frustrated. More and more companies are getting protective of their properties and banning "commercial" photography. A lot of times if you show up with reflectors, any kind of lighting, tripods, their friendly security staff well ask you to move along. Its good to ask first.
But I get your problem. If the location is cool, everyone and their dog and cat has used it. Some times you just have to work to see the same place in a very different way. Good luck.
