Summer is here and is the perfect time for your unforgettable summer senior portrait session.  The extended daylight, picturesque sunsets, and lush landscapes offer an ideal setting but that doesn't mean this season doesn't come without challenges. In this guide, we explore essential tips to overcome the summer heat and pick the perfect outfits, ensuring your photos are as unique and stunning as your personal journey. There are so many exclusive benefits of booking your summer shoot now, as session availability is quickly diminishing!

Handling Excessive Temperatures The warmth of summer not only adds a natural glow to your shots but also presents challenges with the rising temperatures. To ensure comfort and freshness during your shoot, we'll plan to shoot your session LATE in the day, closer to sunset. This will allow us to work with gorgeous light but also enjoy cooler temps. Staying hydrated is crucial—drink plenty of water before and throughout your session. Choose lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool and avoid sweat marks, letting your true personality shine in every portrait. I always have a cooler with ice packs, water, and cooling essential oils to help you manage, but we also shoot for a very short time per outfit so you'll be back in some A/C in no time!

Summer Wardrobe Inspiration and Tips Selecting the right attire is crucial for timeless summer portraits. I know this sounds silly, because duh it's summer, but I've had plenty of seniors come out with sweaters or blazers which makes for an uncomfortable shoot. Despite only shooting outfits for a short time, you still don't want to be rushed because you're uncomfortable.

Opt for light, pastel colors and soft fabrics that reflect the season's vibe and keep you cool. Steer clear of heavy materials and dark colors that attract heat. Consider layering with a removable light jacket or cardigan for versatility or a few shots, but I wouldn't recommend to make that your full style. Enhance your ensemble with accessories like wide-brimmed hats, simple jewelry, and chic sunglasses to add a personal flair. Also, be cautious of swimwear choices leading up to your session to avoid tan lines! 

Benefits of Summer Sessions Summer provides unique opportunities for senior portraits, thanks to longer days allowing for flexible scheduling and coveted golden hour portraits. The vibrant settings of sunlit fields, blooming flowers, and rich greenery add depth and vibrancy to your portraits. The relaxed ambiance of summer helps you feel more at ease, capturing natural, candid moments that truly reflect your spirit. Don't forget BUG SPRAY, if we're shooting in natural settings! (But of course, I'll have some too!)

Best Summer Locations So many choices for summer shoots! and so many of them are secret little gems. I can't tell you how many times I've pulled off the road for a gorgeous patch of wildflowers, an incredible sunset and even a waterfall! Give thought to what you're drawn too. Do you like a ton of flowers or just a few? Do you like a mix of urban textures, or is your vibe more rustic boardwalks, gorgeous stone textures and dramatic skies? Either way, I have a ton of favorite locations that I'm happy to share with you when we do your planning consult. I just need you to share anything you envision and I'll take it from there to find you something perfect!

Let's make this summer unforgettable and bring your dream session to life! You've worked hard for this moment and deserve a day decicated to YOU!

I'm down to my last summer session dates and I'd hate for you to miss out! 

If you're dreaming of capturing your senior moments against the backdrop of stunning sunsets, vibrant summer fields or maybe an urbanscape is your thing, let's make it happen together.

Contact me (button below) to grab one of my last senior dates and start crafting a session that’s as unique as you are. 

Can't wait to connect with you soon! 

Claudine, xoxo