Summer Photography Trends: What's Hot in the Photography World Right Now
Lauren McConihay • July 16, 2024

Summer is here, and photographers are ready to capture the season’s beauty. Summer photography trends are evolving, offering fresh inspiration for every creative. ShootQ, a leading studio management CRM, can help streamline your workflow as you explore these exciting trends.


Embrace Natural Light


Natural light is one of the most significant summer photography trends. Photographers love the warm, golden hues that summer sunlight provides. Additionally, natural light can create stunning effects without needing extra equipment. For this reason, planning shoots around the best light is essential. Golden hour, the period just after sunrise or before sunset, is ideal for capturing the perfect summer glow. Scheduling your shoots during these times will enhance the quality of your photos. The warm tones of natural light can add a magical touch to your images, making them stand out.

With ShootQ, scheduling your golden hour shoots becomes effortless.


Vibrant Colors and Bold Contrasts


Summer is the perfect time to play with vibrant colors and bold contrasts. Bright, vivid hues pop against summer’s lush greens and blues. Additionally, experimenting with color can make your photos stand out.

Look for locations with vibrant backdrops like colorful festivals, blooming gardens, and scenic beaches. For example, a field of sunflowers or a carnival scene can provide a striking contrast to your subjects. Utilizing these elements will help your photos capture the lively spirit of summer.


Candid and Lifestyle Photography


One of the most popular summer photography trends is candid and lifestyle photography. These styles capture genuine moments, creating authentic and relatable images. Additionally, summer activities provide countless opportunities for candid shots.

Engage with your subjects in natural settings like picnics, beach outings, or park strolls. Encourage them to interact with their surroundings, resulting in spontaneous and genuine expressions. This approach helps to tell a story through your photos, making them more engaging for viewers. Utilize ShootQ's Mini Session Scheduler to create summer photoshoots for each of these great options.

A woman is carrying a baby on her shoulders.

Incorporating Water Elements


Water elements add a refreshing touch to summer photos. Pools, lakes, and oceans provide beautiful backdrops and interesting reflections. Additionally, water can create dynamic movement in your shots.

Plan your water-themed shoots to capture various lighting conditions throughout the day. Early morning and late afternoon light can add a soft, dreamy quality to your photos. Experiment with reflections and movements, like splashing water, to add an extra layer of interest.


Outdoor Portraits


Summer is ideal for outdoor portraits. Natural settings like parks, forests, and urban environments offer diverse backdrops. Additionally, outdoor portraits can be more relaxed and enjoyable for clients.

Scout locations that offer a variety of scenery and natural light. Using props such as blankets, chairs, or balloons can add a personal touch to your portraits. This preparation ensures you capture beautiful, personalized images that clients will love.


Minimalist and Simple Compositions


Minimalist and simple compositions are trending in summer photography. These images focus on a single subject, reducing distractions and creating a clean, modern look. Additionally, minimalist photos often convey strong emotions and stories.

Focus on simple, uncluttered backgrounds and let your subject take center stage. Natural elements like a single flower or an open field can create stunning minimalist compositions. This style is about capturing the essence of the subject with minimal distractions.


Adventure and Travel Photography


Summer is synonymous with travel and adventure. Photographers are exploring new destinations, capturing the essence of different cultures and landscapes. Adventure and travel photography are gaining popularity as people seek to document their journeys.

Capture the spirit of adventure by photographing local landmarks, cultural events, and scenic landscapes. Pay attention to details like textures, colors, and patterns that highlight the uniqueness of each location. This trend allows you to tell a visual story of your travels, engaging viewers with your experiences.


Drone Photography



Drone photography continues to soar in popularity. This trend offers unique perspectives and stunning aerial views. Additionally, drones can capture landscapes and events from angles that traditional cameras can’t reach.

Incorporate drone shots to add a fresh perspective to your portfolio. Aerial views of beaches, forests, and cityscapes can provide breathtaking images. Ensure you are familiar with local regulations and safety guidelines to make the most of this trend.

Using ShootQ to Enhance Your Summer Photography


While exploring these summer photography trends, ShootQ can support your workflow. This studio management CRM offers features to keep you organized and efficient. From scheduling and client management to invoicing and project planning, ShootQ streamlines your operations.


  • Client Communication and Management

Effective communication is crucial in photography. ShootQ helps you stay connected with your clients through automated emails, reminders, and updates. Additionally, you can manage all client information in one place, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips.

  • Workflow Automation

Summer is a busy season for photographers. ShootQ automates your workflow, saving you time and reducing stress. Set up custom workflows for different types of shoots, and let the CRM handle the details. Additionally, automated invoicing and payment tracking ensure you get paid on time, every time.

  • Customizable Booking Pages

ShootQ offers customizable booking pages, which allow clients to book sessions directly through your website. This feature simplifies the booking process and ensures that you never miss an opportunity. Clients can view your availability, select a session type, and book their preferred time slot, all in one place. Additionally, this feature reduces the back-and-forth communication, making the booking process more efficient for both you and your clients. By offering a seamless booking experience, you can enhance client satisfaction and streamline your workflow.


Conclusion: Stay Ahead of the Summer Photography Trends


Summer photography trends offer endless opportunities for creativity and growth. By embracing these trends and using ShootQ to streamline your processes, you can elevate your photography business. ShootQ provides the tools you need to stay organized, communicate effectively, and deliver stunning results. Additionally, its robust features ensure you’re always prepared for your next shoot.

In conclusion, staying ahead of summer photography trends can enhance your portfolio and attract new clients. By incorporating natural light, vibrant colors, candid moments, and innovative techniques, you can capture the essence of summer. Let ShootQ support your creative journey and help you capture the season’s beauty with ease.

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