10 Tips for Staying Cool During Summer Photos
With Summer here and the incessant heat approaching, we thought it was the perfect time to talk about taking photos in the heat. These are tips that we use every time we are going to be in the sun for long periods of time while doing summer photo sessions.
Grab a quick refreshment and let’s jump right into our ten tips for taking photos in the heat!
Choose your location wisely
With the sun shining and the heat blazing, you want to make sure that when you pick a location that it meets a few criteria. Specifically you are going to want a location that has some shade sources. Whether trees or a pavilion, it is important to make sure that you are able to cover under shade for breaks.
Something else to consider in choosing a location that has water nearby. This is going to be a little cooler, but be warned if the water is still it could attract mosquitos. Choose a body of water like a lake, river, or creek in the woods that has some movement to it to prevent the bugs from ruining the vibe.
Check out our blog post all about a steamy water session at the Indiana Dunes State Park here. (We are actually doing a series of mini sessions coming at the end of July 2025 at this exact location. Book your session now!)
Hydrate before, during, and after
Hydration is key! If you are not aware, photos will show just about everything. Being hydrated helps with many different aspects of the day. Firstly, you need hydration to function especially in the heat. Secondly, your skin is going to be glowing! We definitely recommend hydrating before the session, and making sure that you and your crew have water waiting on you after. Water bottles are super helpful, especially if you like your water iced like Michelle.
Wear waterproof makeup
When you are considering a photo session during the dead of the summer with the sun blazing, something that you need to consider is that your makeup could run especially if you start to sweat. For this reason we recommend wearing waterproof makeup and using a setting spray. These are two wonderful strategies to keep the makeup looking flawless.
Bring Tissues
On the off chance that you do start sweating and your makeup does run, it is a great idea to have a small travel pack of tissues for dabbing the sweat away. This is also great if you have young children, as you never know what they may find and touch. Having a way to get things off of yourself or the littles takes any stress away that could manifest throughout the session.
Wear Lightweight Clothing
While we do not recommend wearing shorts for a photo session, we do understand that being in a 3 piece suit in the blazing heat may not be the first choice that runs through your head. We recommend wearing lightweight clothing like light cotton or linen pants. Alternatively, you can also find lightweight wool that is surprisingly perfect for summer as it is a naturally wicking fiber, helping to keep you cool.
For the guys, we do recommend a button down to keep you looking quite dapper and elevated. Rolling up the sleeves will give you a little bit of the relief you may need for the session, and it keeps you looking cohesive.
Bring Hair Ties or Clips
When it is warm, one way that you can beat the heat is by switching up your hairstyle. You could start with your hair down and curled. When your hair is starting to stick to your neck, you could simply tie your hair into a ponytail. It is especially chic and adds dimension to your gallery as not all of the photos will have the exact same styling.
Take Breaks Inside to Cool Off
If you are looking to find a simple way to make summer session work for you, we would recommend having a location scouted that allows for easy breaks in the air conditioning. It would be a wise idea to have somewhere close to your session location for this break, which leads me to our next point.
Get a Frozen Treat or Drink
There is just something about going to a little ice cream stand and taking photos while eating your cone, or sipping your milkshake. We are big fans of this idea as you are able to get cute photos and even make memories while doing it! Ideas that you could use: Milkshakes, Ice Cream Cones, or even for those over 21+ ice cold beers!
Wear Light Colors that Will Not Attract Heat
Light colors are going to be your best friend. Especially if you combine lightweight fabric and lighter colors. Lighter colors will also help with reflecting light onto the face and skin tone.
Stay away from asphalt and other dark surfaces
While the blacktop may seem like the easier place for a moody aesthetic, it is going to attract and trap the heat. We would recommend finding a location that is not dark so that it is one less thing for you to consider when handling everything else that goes into a session. Being sweaty and warm is just not fun, why not skip the dark surfaces and find something like concrete? It will give a similar edgy vibe without baking everyone involved. :)
We hope to see you in front of our lenses soon!
XOXO,
Michelle & Brittany