SUMMER FAMILY PORTRAITS: HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE SEASON FROM YOUR SAVANNAH FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

Summer is the perfect time to capture beautiful family portraits. With longer days, warmer weather, and vibrant natural backdrops, it’s a wonderful time to create stunning images that showcase your family’s unique personality and bonds. Here’s how I make the most of this season for your family photo sessions, from selecting the ideal locations to coordinating outfits that complement the vibrant colors of July.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT OUTDOOR LOCATIONS

The beauty of summer lies in its variety of scenic locations that can serve as the perfect backdrop for family portraits. Here are some of the locations I can help you choose from:

• Parks and Gardens: Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and expansive open spaces make parks and gardens ideal. Look for local botanical gardens or well-maintained parks that offer a mix of flora and open spaces.
• Beaches: Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. The golden sand, rolling waves, and expansive skies provide a stunning backdrop. Opt for early morning or late afternoon sessions to avoid harsh midday sun and capture the soft, flattering light.
• Countryside and Farms: Fields of wildflowers, rustic barns, and wide-open fields can give your photos a charming, pastoral feel. These locations are perfect for a more relaxed, natural vibe.
• Urban Settings: If your family loves the hustle and bustle of city life, urban environments can also work well. Look for colorful murals, quaint streets, or city parks that offer a mix of greenery and urban elements.
• Studio: If you’d rather not take your chances on the weather, we can schedule a summer-themed session indoors. I’ll bring summer to the studio with props and backdrops to give your photos that sunny feel.

COORDINATING OUTFITS

One of the key aspects of a successful family portrait is coordinating outfits that reflect the season’s vibrant colors. Here are some tips:

• Color Palette: Embrace the bright and cheerful colors of summer. Think of hues like coral, turquoise, sunny yellow, and fresh greens. These colors pop against natural backdrops and enhance the overall feel of the photos.
• Avoid Over-Matching: While coordination is essential, avoid having everyone in identical outfits. Instead, choose a color palette and let each family member wear different shades and patterns within that range. This creates visual harmony without looking too uniform.
• Comfort is Key: Summer can get quite warm, so choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and comfortable shorts can keep everyone cool and relaxed during the session.
• Accessories and Layers: Accessories can add a fun touch to your photos. Consider adding hats, scarves, or statement jewelry that fits the summer theme. Lightweight layers like cardigans or shawls can also add depth to your outfits.

TIMING AND LIGHTING

Summer’s long days offer flexible timing for photo sessions, but the quality of light can make a significant difference. Here’s how we choose the best times for your session:

• Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, known as the golden hour, provides the most flattering natural light. This time of day offers soft, warm tones that are perfect for capturing the essence of summer.
• Overcast Days: Don’t be discouraged by cloudy weather. Overcast days can provide even lighting and reduce harsh shadows, making for great portraits.
• Shade and Shadows: If we’re shooting in the middle of the day, I seek out shaded areas to avoid harsh sunlight. Trees, buildings, or umbrellas can offer relief and create a more comfortable environment for you.

POSING AND INTERACTION

Natural, candid interactions often make for the best family portraits. I encourage your family to play, laugh, and enjoy the moment. Here are a few examples:

• Activity-Based Poses: We might incorporate activities your family enjoys, such as having a picnic, playing a game, or simply walking together. These activities can help everyone relax and interact naturally.
• Close-Up Moments: I always capture close-up shots of intimate moments, like a child holding a parent’s hand or siblings sharing a laugh. These details can highlight the emotional connections within your family.
• Group Dynamics: I mix up the groupings in your photos. I’ll take shots of the whole family, but also capture smaller groupings, like just the children or the parents alone. This variety adds depth to your photo collection.

By carefully selecting your location, coordinating outfits, and choosing the right time for your session, we can create beautiful, lasting memories of your family enjoying the summer season. Embrace the warmth, color, and joy that summer brings, and let your family’s unique personality shine through in every shot.