Sweat-Proof Your Shoot With These Summer Photography Tips
It’s hot girl summer… literally!! Temperatures are high, but that doesn’t mean you have to let the summer heat stop you from having the best photoshoot ever. I’ve compiled a list of all my best tips for how to make sure your photos come out amazing as we move into the summer heat, and now I’m sharing that list with you!
From the best time of day to shoot to what to wear to how to avoid sweating off your makeup, this summer photoshoot guide has it all.
So without further ado, here are a Nashville photographer’s tips on how to beat the heat and have a successful photoshoot, even in high temps!
Summer Photoshoot Advice From a Nashville Photographer
Yes, summer in Nashville is known to be HOT—but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing, (mostly) sweat-free photoshoot experience! Here are all my best tips for how to still enjoy yourself and end up with amazing photos at your summer photoshoot.
1. Shoot in the early morning or evening
During the height of summer, you don’t want to be shooting when the sun is directly overhead (typically between 10am-2pm); this means you’ll have the hottest possible temperatures. No thank you!
Instead, aim for the 1-2 hour period after sunrise and before sunset (commonly known as golden hour, or even blue hour).
Not only will this give you the best lighting, but it’ll also ensure you have the coolest possible temps.
2. Wear clothing made with light materials
This might go without saying, but summer is not the time to wear a sweater, cardigan, or other heavy clothing items to your shoot. Instead, aim for lighter materials like linen and cotton to stay cool (and look good while doing it)!!
I personally love a good linen pant look, or a flowy skirt or summer dress. For more ideas on what to wear for your summer shoot, check out my outfit guide on what to wear for your portrait photoshoot!
3. Have makeup touch-ups on hand
Sweat = shiny skin = not what you want for your photos!! i recommend keeping blotting sheets and setting powder on hand so that if your makeup does start to slip, you can easily touch it up and continue on with your shoot. It’s also worthwhile to invest in an amazing setting spray!
4. Hydrate and take breaks
When temperatures are high, make sure you bring a water bottle to your photoshoot! I always have one on me as a photographer, too.
Let’s just say that getting dehydrated and passing out would not make for the best photoshoot experience… so make sure to hydrate before, during, and after your shoot!
Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for a quick break in the shade (if we’re not already shooting there) or for a few minutes sitting in the car blasting the air conditioner! This can go a long way in staying cool. As your photographer, I would always want you to tell me if you start to feel like you’re overheating!
5. Plan a photoshoot that leans into the weather
In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated summer photoshoot tips. When planning your photoshoot, ask yourself (or your photographer): is there a photoshoot theme that leans into the hot temperature?
For example, maybe you can plan to do a beach photoshoot where you can wear a swimsuit and get in the water, or a fun poolside shoot. Or maybe you decide to take photos in a shaded field with a light, flowy mini dress that keeps you cool.
Think of ways the weather can inspire you to plan your photoshoot!
6. Shoot indoors if needed
Studio sessions aren’t only for rainy days!! If the weather forecast is predicting temps that seem unbearable, it might be the perfect time to start utilizing a studio for your sessions.
There are so many amazing photography studios to rent, and a studio can be the perfect place to get creative in a new way!! With plenty of fun options to play with and full control of the temperature, a studio might be your best friend on particularly hot days.
If you need ideas for where to shoot in studio, I love looking on Peerspace to find a space that fits my needs! You can use this link to get $50 off your first studio booking with Peerspace!
I hope these tips help you survive shooting in the summer heat!!
Book Kayla Simon Photos for Your Summer Photoshoot
It may be 90+ degrees in Nashville in the summer but the hottest thing in this city is YOU when you get in front of my camera 😉 If you’re looking to book a summer photoshoot with a Nashville-based portrait photographer, I’d love to work with you!
Kayla Simon Photos is a queer-owned photography business that specializes in capturing joyful and authentic moments in an editorial style for all people and all love. I pride myself on providing an enjoyable, empowering photography experience for seniors, graduates, brands, business owners, and more.
To learn more about how we can work together, check out the Experience page or send me an inquiry through my contact form! I can’t wait to hear from you :)
