What’s Your Brand Aesthetic? Hidden Gem Backdrops for Your North East Brand Photoshoot

When I work with clients on their brand photoshoots, one of the first things we discuss is their ideal shoot location. Some business owners come to me full of potential location ideas, while others are open to suggestions. Whichever camp you fall into, one thing’s for sure – it’s time to step outside of the office for your brand photos.

I can totally understand why business owners want to grab photos of them and their teams at their premises. Whether you have an office or a customer-facing venue, like a bakery, restaurant or something along those lines, you will, of course, want to snap some pics in this special place for use across your marketing materials. 

However, I highly recommend thinking outside of the box (and the front door!) and making sure you get plenty of images to represent you as a person. Remember, people work with people – it’s a cliche for a reason. 

As a Newcastle brand photographer, I have snapped photos of entrepreneurs across the region now, and when it came to choosing locations for my own photoshoot, I had to think carefully. I wanted my photos to look fresh and original, so this meant selecting places where I don’t regularly photograph my own clients.

For my shoot with fellow brand photographer Zoe Campbell, I really wanted to get images that were bright and colourful to go with my own personal branding. I opted for these fantastic graffiti walls not too far from the Gateshead Quayside. These awesome works of art are such wonderful backdrops to my shoot and, hopefully, make for super eye-catching brand images.

Me (Lauren Mcwilliams) near the sage.

So, with that in mind, I have put together a list of interesting and obscure places for your North East brand photoshoot depending on your aesthetic. Want to book a shoot with me? Get in touch today or keep reading to get inspo!

Fun, bright colours

If, like me, colours are your thing, then I’ve got plenty of ideas for an eye-catching brand photoshoot in the North East. Firstly, you could head down the Ouseburn for posing in front of some of the incredible murals along the riverside, this would pair nicely with a Quayside shoot!

Other colourful photoshoot locations in the North East include the walled garden at Wallington (for wildflower beauty) and Lovaine Terrace in Alnmouth (a multi-coloured terraced street).

Flower wall in Morpeth

This vibrant colourful backdrop was the perfect spot to bring my clients new headshots to life.

Industrial chic

Newcastle is a city of industry, so we really are spoiled for choice when it comes to industrial backdrops for your brand photoshoot. If you are looking for something a little different to a typical Tyne Bridge shot, then why not venture across (or even under) one of the city’s other bridges?

The Swing Bridge is a smart choice, especially if red and white are in your brand colours. For a more traditional look, head along to the High Level Bridge. The structure’s geometric girders allow sunshine to pour through, creating a really interesting setting for a brand shoot.

Alongside our region’s iconic bridges, you could also explore North Shields Fish Quay, Royal Quays Marina or Hartlepool’s Heigh Battery for more industrial locations. 

The Quayside

Dionne Slater, Empowerment coach and Hypnotherapist

Outdoors in nature

Even at the most popular countryside locations the region has to offer, you’ll easily find quiet corners for beautiful photos. Plessey Woods near Morpeth is ideal if you’re looking for a rustic, woodland aesthetic. For wildflowers and beautiful lawns, head to the National Trust’s Gibside or Alnwick Gardens.

Other lovely places for outdoor brand photoshoots include Jesmond Dene, Holywell Dene and Bolam Lake. 

The woods

Sarah McDermott, founder of Masion Parfaite, coach and writer

Coastal cool

If there’s one thing we’ve got aplenty in the North East, it’s beaches. In fact, we have five Blue Flag beaches in Tyneside alone – a prestigious award given only to the cleanest and safest beaches in the world. If a coastal shoot is your vibe, then I highly recommend visiting one of our best beaches in the early hours to dodge the crowds, King Edward’s Bay or Tynemouth Longsands would be perfect for this. Bonus points if you have an office doggo to join you on the shoot! 

Other seaside locations include Blyth Beach Huts (also a great colourful option), Cambois (a very quiet spot) or Bamburgh (for historic castle vibes!).

Blyth Beach Huts

Lisa Kirkbride, Graphic designer and Artist

Hopefully, this blog has given you some ideas for your next brand photoshoot. Feeling inspired and looking for a North East brand photographer? You’re in the right place! Contact me, Lauren McWilliams today, about booking in your new brand photos.