Why London’s local areas are great for commercial shoots?
- Stuart Bailey
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
One of the things I’ve come to really appreciate about working as a commercial photographer in London is how much character this city holds especially the local areas and the streets. Seriously, there aren’t many places where you can find gritty walls, luxury townhouses, leafy parks, and glass towers all within a short cab ride of each other. And when it comes to planning a shoot—whether it’s for a new campaign, a rebrand, or even just a refresh for your website—location matters more than most people realise.
So if you're not sure where to shoot, here's a little rundown of some London spots I’ve used for clients and why they work so well.
Shoreditch – For That Urban Edge
If your brand is creative, fashion-forward, or a little rebellious, Shoreditch is the spot. It’s got street art, bold textures, warehouse doors, independent cafés—everything you need for a raw, energetic feel. I’ve done lifestyle shoots here that looked like we were somewhere in Berlin. It works especially well for fashion or tech startups who want to show a bit of personality.
Mayfair – Clean, Elegant, and Timeless
Mayfair is a go-to for clients who want something polished. Think: fashion brands, real estate, luxury services. The architecture here is immaculate. Cream facades, iron railings, perfectly trimmed hedges. If you’re going for that clean, upscale look, this area delivers. And the best part? It feels private. You can get a calm, editorial vibe without the chaos of the city creeping in.
Canary Wharf – Sleek and Corporate
Now, if you’re shooting for a finance firm, law brand, or even a personal branding session where professionalism is key, Canary Wharf is hard to beat. Glass buildings, clean lines, symmetry—it’s corporate, but in a really strong, graphic way. As a professional commercial photographer, I find the lines here help create really bold images, especially when shooting portraits for business use.
Notting Hill – Bright, Soft, and Lifestyle-Friendly
For lifestyle brands, family-friendly campaigns, or something that feels a bit lighter—Notting Hill is a dream. Pastel-coloured houses, leafy streets, and those beautiful curved buildings make it feel instantly more approachable. I’ve shot everything from baby brands to boutique clothing lines here and it always adds that soft, inviting touch.
Southbank – A Bit of Everything
This area is a little gem because it offers so much variety in one stretch. River views, brutalist buildings, modern glass walls, and even pockets of greenery. I’ve done shoots here where we’ve managed to get three totally different backdrops in under an hour. For time-pressed clients, it’s a great option.
Honestly, it comes down to the story you want to tell. If you’re not sure where to start, that’s something I help clients with all the time. Location scouting is part of what I do—and I’ll always recommend a spot that suits the tone of your campaign, whether you’re a brand-new label or a corporate business updating your visuals.
Studio vs. Street: Choosing the Right Setting for Your Advertising Campaign
One of the first things I’ll ask when planning a shoot is: do you see this happening in a studio, or would something more outdoors suit the vibe? And more often than not, the answer is somewhere in between. Choosing the right setting isn’t just about convenience—it really does shape the tone of the whole campaign.
As a commercial and advertising photographer in London, I’ve shot in all sorts of places—bare studios, bustling backstreets, and everything in between. And both options have their place. Here’s a bit of a breakdown to help you decide what might work best for your brand.
Why You Might Go for a Studio
If you need a clean, polished look with full control over light, shadows, and background—a studio is your best friend. It’s especially useful for product photography, professional portraits, or anything where consistency matters.
Studios are also great when the weather’s unpredictable (which, let’s be honest, is most of the time here in the UK). You won’t need to worry about traffic, noise, or changing light. Everything’s focused, streamlined, and efficient.
I’ve worked with clients who simply wanted to focus on the subject—whether that’s a person, a product, or a process. No distractions, no surprises. That level of control can be a game changer, especially if you're working on a tight brief or aiming for multiple deliverables in one session.
When the Street Makes Sense
On the other hand, street shoots bring something you just can’t fake—realness. If your brand is about energy, connection, lifestyle, or movement, then the street might be your stage. London, in particular, is packed with character—from the slick corners of Canary Wharf to the colourful streets of Notting Hill, or the edgy charm of Shoreditch.
You don’t need to go far to get a variety of textures—glass, brick, graffiti, greenery. It’s all there, often in walking distance. And there’s a kind of spontaneity that happens on location. People loosen up, things feel less staged, and the images often carry more personality.
For fashion brands, lifestyle businesses, or even service-led industries wanting to show more personality, location shoots can be brilliant. You’re not just capturing a product—you’re telling a story.
So, What’s Right for Your Campaign?
There’s no right or wrong—it’s more about what you’re trying to say. Want to keep it sleek and professional? Studio’s a safe bet. Looking to show movement, character, or real-life context? The street might be better.
And sometimes, we mix the two. I’ve done shoots that start in a studio in Soho and wrap on the streets nearby. It gives variety without overcomplicating the day.
If you’re not sure what setting suits your campaign, that’s something I’m always happy to help you figure out. As someone who’s worked with a wide range of clients—from start-ups to established brands—I’ll guide you through the pros and cons based on your goals.
The Best Hidden Locations in London for Brand & Advertising Photography
Now if you're planning a commercial photoshoot in London, you want to get the most out of it.
Whether you're showcasing luxury products like premium make-up products, launching a new campaign, or updating your brand imagery, proper preparation is the key to capturing the best visuals. A well-organized session ensures everything runs smoothly, saves time, and delivers stunning images that elevate your advertising efforts.
Having worked on numerous shoots, I can tell you that a little planning makes all the difference. So, if you're wondering how to prepare for a successful session, here’s what you need to know.
1. Define Your Goals and Vision
Before anything else, be clear about what you want to achieve. Are you shooting for a website update, a social media campaign, or print materials? Each platform has different requirements, and knowing this in advance helps in planning.
It’s also useful to gather inspiration. Look at branding photos from similar businesses, create a mood board, or even list the specific shots you need. This will help communicate your ideas to the professional capturing the images, ensuring you're both on the same page.
2. Choose the Right Location
Where your session takes place makes a huge impact. A studio setup gives you complete control over lighting, while an on-location shoot—whether in a showroom, home setting, or outdoor space—adds a natural touch.
If your business is based in London or elsewhere in the UK, consider spaces that reflect your brand’s identity. For luxury products, a well-styled interior could enhance the richness of the materials. If you’re highlighting craftsmanship, a behind-the-scenes setting might be ideal.
3. Get Your Products or Space Ready
If you’re featuring items like clothing, home accessories, or fashion pieces, they should be in perfect condition. Steam or press fabrics to remove any creases, check for any marks or imperfections, and have backups just in case.
For lifestyle or interior shots, styling is key. Think about how the surroundings complement what you're promoting. A well-prepared setting ensures the images look polished and professional.
4. Plan Wardrobe and Styling
If people will be in the session, whether models or team members, make sure their outfits match the overall look you want. For corporate branding, sleek and neutral tones work well, while lifestyle campaigns allow for more creativity.
For a more polished look, consider hiring a stylist, makeup artist, or hair expert. Small details like well-groomed hands for product shots or natural makeup for lifestyle portraits can make a big difference.
5. Discuss the Shot List and Details in Advance
Time on set is valuable, so having a clear shot list avoids unnecessary delays. Break it down by priority—must-have shots first, then additional creative angles.
It’s also worth discussing composition. Do you need close-ups? Flat lays? Wide shots? The more specific you are, the more efficient the process will be.
6. Be Flexible but Stay Organized
Even with a solid plan, things don’t always go exactly as expected. Lighting changes, unexpected reflections, or last-minute styling tweaks can happen.
A well-prepared commercial photoshoot saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you get the highest-quality images for your advertising and marketing needs. By setting clear goals, choosing the right space, and ensuring everything is ready to go, you’ll walk away with visuals that strengthen your brand and attract the right audience.
Who is Stuart Bailey?
Stuart Bailey is a commercial and advertising photographer based in London, specializing in commercial, advertising, retail, lifestyle, and event photography. With years of experience working with businesses, professionals, and brands, Stuart’s photography is known for its clean, authentic, and engaging style. He works closely with clients to create high-quality, impactful images that enhance their personal and professional presence.
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