Here Comes the Sun! Photography in the Summer
Every wedding is unique in and of itself, and photography requirements become unique with every changing season. The summertime requires a different approach and consideration when planning ahead for photography.
There are a lot of benefits to getting pictures done in the summer, but there is a fair share of roadblocks too. Some of these include:
1. Storm Hours
In the Summer, especially here in the southern states, even on the driest day, it’s not uncommon for an afternoon storm to appear. They usually show up like clockwork between two and five in the afternoon. Think this through for engagement, bridal, and wedding photography.
Are you trying to avoid the rain? It may be disheartening to know that the most expensive hair-do that you’ve ever gotten done is about to be ruined. Whether it be due to frizz, the falling of curls, or the curling of straightened hair, know your hair, what you want, and how the weather affects it.
In such a case, you may also want to consider that the most expensive make-over you ever got done and the most expensive dress you ever bought may potentially be ruined by rain as well. Know what you want, and be prepared.
On the flip side, maybe you enjoy the whimsy look of being caught in the rain. Embrace it if you want to. I, as a photographer, am here for it. Not to mention the storm clouds that cause it to be overcast make for phenomenal lighting in pictures.
2. Humidity
Similarly, as what was said about the storms, it’s summer, and we are in the south. Humidity is undeniable. It can ruin the best hair and dampen the best clothes.
Consider what you are wearing. Not only is it summer in the south (a.k.a., blazing hot temperatures), but the humidity makes it feel all the hotter, and you want to be comfortable in your pictures. Usually, if you’re not happy and comfortable, it will show through in the final product, unless you’re a really good actor.
3. Sunlight Hours
This is probably everybody’s favorite part about summer: We have more daylight in the day! Use that to your advantage. Know when sunrise and sunset are and plan your photography accordingly.
“Golden Hour” can be a great time for you and your photographer to take advantage of the lighting for stellar pictures. When the sun is bright in the sky, it can create a hazy look in photos at times. So use shaded areas and dusk and dawn for photography for the clearest photos.
4. Nature
It’s not just the springtime that is filled with nature’s colors. Many flowers are in bloom, and depending on the summer, green can be everywhere. Take advantage of the scenery and backdrops that creation provides naturally for you in the summer.
Even places that have bodies of water and waterfalls are a great consideration for photography locations to dip your feet in and keep you cool, whereas, in fall or winter, it would be way too cold.
5. Take Care of Yourself
It’s important during photography sessions to take care of yourself and not risk your health. Make sure to bring water to hydrate for you and your beloved. Bring water, fans, and body cooling items and a few treats or snacks for the littles or any fur-babies who may accompany us on the shoot.
Take breaks during the photo shoot if you need to go indoors somewhere or sit in the air-conditioned car for a moment.
Your wedding day is all about you and your spouse; everyone else is here to celebrate and help make this a special day. Know what you need, and communicate with your photographer.
6. “Don’t Miss” Shots
Almost every photographer is going to have a list of “don’t miss” shots or ask you for a list of those “don’t miss shots” that are important to you. For your satisfaction, it’s important to communicate with your photographer so they can anticipate what memories of the wedding are going to be most important to you.
Not only is it helpful to get that list to a photographer, but on the day of the wedding, running through the ceremony and reception locations with them will make a world of difference. It allows your photographer to judge the lighting of those areas, adjust their camera settings, and know what they're working with and exactly what they need to do to provide you with the highest quality of wedding photography.
Shots that many consider as “Don’t Miss” Moments:
- The groom's face as he sees the bride
- The bride walking down the aisle
- The ring exchange
- The first kiss
- The recessional
- The first dance
- The dances with parents
- Family photos (his family, her family, both families, parents, grandparents, etc.)
- Bridal party photos
There is a whole blog I have dedicated to Ten “Must Have” Wedding Photos that you can visit for more ideas.
Times Treasured Studios
I am very excited about your big day coming up! I would love to be a part of it and help you capture memories to be able to look back on for a lifetime. I have experience with a variety of genres in photography, from real estate and staff photos to weddings.
Check out my portfolio on my website from over ten years of experience, and browse through my packages to see if you would be interested in my services for your wedding. I also do boudoir photography, which can be a really fun gift before the wedding. More on those here.
If you have any questions or would like to talk, you can visit my contact page, and I’ll be happy to help!