Planning A Cottage Core Photoshoot: 10 Unique Ideas

Cottage core as an aesthetic has been increasing in popularity over the past few years. As a theme, it focuses on cozy, rustic, and vintage-inspired elements, as well as its idyllic depiction of rural life and its emphasis on simplicity and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll explore ten unique ideas for planning a cottage core photoshoot that will help you capture the charm and magic of this beloved aesthetic.

Along the way, we’ll also be suggesting a few venue options from Peerspace, the world’s largest digital marketplace for all kinds of hourly venue rentals–that includes both indoor and outdoor photoshoot locations!

1. Find a farm in your area through Peerspace

Have you been dreaming of planning your ultimate cottage core photoshoot but don’t have a rural farm to take photos at? Turn to Peerspace! You’ll find all thousands of farms all across the country that have welcomed community members in for photoshoots and events. Whether you want something in the mountains, by the beach, or in lush green valleys, simply search for your dream aesthetic to find it on Peerspace.

There are options for all kinds of budgets as well, just take for example Hazel Creek Farm in Avenue, Maryland. This five-acre farm with chickens, rabbits, and more can be yours for only $30 an hour! With so many different shooting locations at this property, you’ll get much more than what you paid for.

2. Capture harvest time in the fall

Speaking of farms, fall is the time of year when many are harvesting their crops from the year. Take full advantage of this for your shoot by wearing earth tones and incorporating fall produce like pumpkins, squash, and apples into your photos. This is also a perfect chance to show off your favorite cottage core sweater and skirt!

3. Shoot at night by a cozy fire pit

Is there anything more cottage core than getting cozy out by a fire pit? A bonfire can provide some unique lighting opportunities and make shooting at night an absolute breeze.

Find the best fire pit for you on Peerspace. There are so many phenomenal options out there like the one at this rural farm homestead in Johnstown, Colorado! Take a virtual tour by checking out some of the high-quality photos uploaded by the host and see for yourself the wide array of spaces available for a cottage core photoshoot on the property.

Got a wedding on your horizon? Then you may also love our shabby chic wedding ideas!

4. Show your nerdy side with a book nook

Have a bunch of books lying around? Create a comfortable book nook for your cottage core photoshoot with an overstuffed chair, soft lighting, and as many books as you can manage! Try setting up a book nook outside for an added effect and to lean into the theme even further.

5. Incorporate architecture into your photoshoot

While one of the core ideas of a cottage core aesthetic is the outdoors, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to incorporate rustic architecture into your shots. To see a great example of what we mean, take a look through some of the phenomenal pictures of this cozy A-frame cabin with panoramic views on Peerspace! The photographer was able to use the unique shape of the cabin to frame a beautiful shot that still upholds the cottage core vibe.

When you book this home on Peerspace, you’ll have so much more than just the cabin to work with though–the entire property spans three acres, offering a variety of vistas and backdrops to experiment with. Want to know the best part? They’ve got a hot tub for you to warm up in after you’ve taken some outdoor photos!

6. Shine bright with fairy lights

Another popular thing you may see in cottage core photos are fairy or string lights. Hanging up some outdoor lights and using other props like flower crowns, fireflies, and sparklers can create dazzling effects and really enhance the magical and dreamy qualities of the theme. You may be surprised what kind of gorgeous atmosphere you can turn a basic backyard into with just a few fairy lights!

7. Use reflections to capture the moon

If you’re planning your photoshoot for the evening, try to get it on a clear night with a full moon! The ample moonlight will give you even more to work with, and if you have access to the water, you can play around with the moon’s reflection for more mystical looking shots. Find a property with water access on Peerspace. For instance, this eco farm in Ocklawaha, Florida has availability on its schedule for hourly rentals until midnight!

Our unique boho baby shower ideas are perfect for anyone who dabbles with the cottage core life. Check them out!

8. Show off your baking skills in the kitchen

Cottage core and baked goods go together like peanut butter and jelly! If you’ve got a knack for baking, then showcase your skills with a cottage core kitchen shoot. Don’t have a kitchen that would match the vibe? Try something like this country home with wood panel walls, barn doors, and more in San Antonio. It has an adorable kitchen that would match the aesthetic perfectly!

9. Capture the joy of fruit picking

Is there anything sweeter than walking through an orchard or field full of fresh fruit and filling a basket? Planning your photoshoot around fruit picking season is a wonderful way to get your hands on some delicious local treats and capture some beautiful photos that work perfect with the cottage core vibe. Go for a classic wicker basket, flowing skirt, and don’t forget to bring a blanket for a little picnic out among the fruit trees!

10. Plan a rustic garden party

Sometimes, you don’t even need to leave the big city to capture the cottage core aesthetic! Peerspace has some hidden gems available like this rustic backyard garden in Chicago that has everything you need to plan a bohemian garden party. Come check this affordable and versatile spot out and see why it’s so well-loved by Peerspace community members in the area who have utilized it for everything including summertime barbeques, film shoots, and bridal showers!

Find unique photoshoot locations on Peerspace