Summer is here, and with it comes a season of sunshine, adventures, and memory-making. Whether you're planning a big family vacation or just a quick trip to the local park, your camera is the perfect companion. But taking great photos isn't always as simple as pointing and shooting. By keeping a few key tips in mind, you can elevate your summer snapshots from simple photos to stunning visual stories.
Here are five tips to help you capture your best summer memories.
1. Master the Light
The quality and direction of light are the most important elements of a great photo. While it's tempting to shoot when the sun is highest, the harsh midday light can create unflattering shadows and washed-out colors. For the best results, aim to shoot during the "golden hours"—the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times adds a magical glow to your portraits. If you have to shoot in the middle of the day, seek out open shade, like under a tree or a building's awning, to get a more even and flattering light.
2. Choose the Right Camera & Protect Your Gear
The best camera is the one you have with you. For most on-the-go moments, your smartphone is a powerful tool. Its portability makes it perfect for spontaneous shots. If you're bringing a DSLR, consider a lightweight model and pack only the lenses you need. No matter what camera you use, remember to protect it from the elements. Sand, water, and sunscreen are a camera's worst enemies. Invest in a waterproof case, a good camera bag, and a hand strap to keep your gear safe from the splashes and spills of summer.
3. Play with Perspective and Composition
Don't get stuck shooting every photo from eye level. To make your photos more dynamic, experiment with different angles and perspectives. Get down low to capture a child's-eye view, or climb up high to get a unique overhead shot of a scene. Try getting in close for a detailed shot of a single subject, or zoom out to show the bigger picture of your surroundings. Playing with composition, leading lines, and the rule of thirds can transform a simple picture into a work of art.
4. Make it Meaningful
Photography is a powerful tool for expression and learning. Use your camera to capture the small, meaningful details that tell the story of your summer—the freckles on your child's nose, the texture of a seashell, or the sun setting over a familiar view.
Even better, hand the camera to your children and see the world through their eyes. Their natural curiosity can lead to some of the most unexpected and heartfelt photos, revealing things that adults often overlook. By using your camera as a tool for exploration, you can make your summer journey meaningful in a whole new way.
5. Join the Action (and Put the Camera Down)
It's easy to fall into the role of the family historian, always behind the lens. But remember, you're a part of the story too! Make sure you get in front of the camera from time to time so your family has photos to remember you by. Whether it's a selfie or a shot taken by a friend, your presence in the pictures is a gift. At the same time, don't forget to put the camera down and simply be present. The most meaningful memories aren't always the ones you photograph, but the ones you experience with your loved ones.
6. Make memories! Print them! We can help :)