A few tips on great Summer Photos.
1. Try to shoot earlier in the day, before 9 AM. The light is softer and the colors are more vibrant.
2. Shooting at mid day when nthe sun is at it's strongest yeilds flat washed out photos. Wait a few hours until around 4 or 5 PM.
3. For beautiful color shoot during the "Golden Hours", right before and right after sunset. Everything will have a warm and pleasant glow.
4. When shooting family or friends in bright sun, try different angles, so that they are not always staring into the sun. Try side lighting, backlighting for anice silhouette effect. Also for shots where they are facing into the sun, have everyone look at you and then with their eys only, look down. Count to 3 and have them raise their eyes only to your level. Bang, everyone has their eyes open.
5. Use fill flash. Yes it sounds funny to add more light on a bright sunny day. But if all you have is a pop up flash, it is better than nothing. What it does is even out the hot spots and shadows on the face. You know, those raccoon eyes, yuk!
6. Use natural shade if you can to soften the light. Avoid getting directly below tree branches, as the sun can filter through the leaves and branches, and cast funky shadows on the subject. An overhang, porch, awning all work great.
Try these simple tips and you will be very surprised at the results. Happy shooting!
