Summer is the time when most people feel inclined to cut loose, have some fun in the sun, and take some pretty great pictures. Planning a photo shoot for summer is one way of filling a day with excitement and creativity. If you’re wanting to get some great shots of frolicking through summer, then check out these five tips!
Choose the Right Location
The first step to nailing the perfect summer photoshoot is to pick the right location. Think about what kind of vibe you’re going for and find a spot that matches it. A beachy setting will obviously require a trip to the coast, while a more urban shoot can be done almost anywhere. Think of places that will be a unique backdrop, such as a carnival or flower fields, both of which provide lots of color, contrast, and whimsy.
When choosing outdoor shooting locations, it’s also important to remember seasonal plants. Different trees, bushes, and flowers bloom at different times through the spring, summer, and fall. So if you have a particular backdrop in mind, be sure to research whether or not the local vegetation is looking its best.
Time It Right
Timing is everything when it comes to getting great photos, and that’s especially true in the summertime. The best time of day to take pictures is during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset or the hour after sunrise. The lighting during this time is incredibly flattering, so it’s definitely worth getting up early or staying out late to capture that perfect summer glow. Search what time the sun sets in your area and go out an hour beforehand to catch this lighting.
If you can’t make it during the golden hour, there are other ways to achieve good photography lighting. Generally speaking, you want to avoid direct sunlight. It casts harsh shadows on and around your subject, and it often causes the subject to squint their eyes. Try to find a shady spot to avoid direct sunlight. For this reason, cloudy weather can be a great photoshoot opportunity.
Look the Part
What you wear in your photos is just as important as the location and lighting. When picking out your outfit, think about what kind of message you want to convey with your photos. Are you going for fun and flirty? Then a cute sundress or skirt would be perfect. If you’re going for a more laid-back look, denim shorts or jeans paired with a tank top would do the trick. And if you really want to stand out, try incorporating some fun, summery patterns into your ensemble.
You’ll also want to plan out the most flattering makeup and hairstyle for your photo. These will also largely depend on the aesthetic you’re aiming for and could range from bridesmaid perfection to understated and natural-looking. Don’t forget skin care for the rest of your body, especially if you’re planning on having bare legs or arms in the photos. On a bright sunny day, pale skin can get washed out in photos. Spray tanning at a place like Tan Your Hide can be a great way to remedy this. A warm, sun-kissed complexion will give you a healthy glow in your photos and prevent you from looking washed out.
You may also want to consider using waterproof makeup products so that sweat doesn’t ruin your look. Blotting sheets or blotting powder are also great to have on hand to combat excessive shine on your face. If you’re using any products that may need to be retouched, like lip gloss, be sure to bring it with you so that you can touch up whenever needed.
Work With Props
There are all sorts of fun props you can use to add personality to your photos. If you’re taking pictures at the beach, for example, you could bring along a colorful beach towel or even some fun floaties. Sunbonnets, umbrellas, and even ice cream can all provide additional color and character to your photos.
Certain articles of clothing like hats and jackets can also function as versatile props and give you ideas for new poses. You can also utilize elements of the environment like wildflowers or leaves.
Use Sun Protection
Protecting your skin from the sun isn’t only for beach days. If you’re having a daytime summer photoshoot, it is essential that you use sunscreen to prevent sunburn and even deeper UV damage to your skin. If you’re worried about your makeup, there are several makeup primers on the market that contain SPF and also work as a great base for your foundation or bb cream.
Stay Hydrated
Another essential aspect of being outside in the summer heat is hydration. Make sure you have enough water for both the photographer and the subject to stay hydrated through the shoot.
Have Fun!
The most important tip of all is to have fun! If you’re not enjoying yourself, it will show in your photos. So relax, let loose, and enjoy the process. If you need a break, let your photoshoot partner know so you can both sit back and relax before getting back into it.
With these five tips in mind, you’re sure to capture the perfect summer moments in your photos. Not only will you have loads of fun while taking the pictures, but you’ll also capture some wonderful memories. So get out there and start snapping away!