Photography tips and inspo to get your creative juices flowing!
I was recently asked "How do you stay inspired? Where do you draw your inspiration from?"
To some extent I find inspo in art–especially old paintings. This is because often the lighting, posing and color schemes art dramatic and creative because each brushstroke was planned out in detail. And I am alllll about the details.
Beyond the visual aesthetics, I simply try to approach family photography with a timeless, nostalgic perspective. What do I want to remember about my kids, or this stage of life? What details do I want to preserve? Usually it's that care free essence of childhood that draws me. The sense of adventure where you're running wild without a worry on your mind and summer seems to stretch on forever from one sticky sweet honeysuckle evening to the next. It's the messy faces, the innocent expressions, the pudgy hands, dirty toes and curiosity that compel a child to crouch down and inspect a ladybug or firefly with awe. It's the spinning through the sprinkler or dancing to a favorite song. My children and the wonder in their eyes inspire me to keep creating as they grow and have new experiences.
If you're looking for photography inspo, my number one recommendation is to look within yourself at what matters most to you and let that be your guide. Is it family? Relationship? A favorite hobby or interest? Your faith? Your work?
I think sometimes we get it all a bit backward. We aim to produce captivating art instead of letting ourselves be captivated first. We try to inspire others with our work before we ourselves have been inspired.
Learn to pay attention to the things that make your heart skip a beat, and lean into that.
Golden Hour Photoshoot
For that perfect glow, aim for the last hour before the sun goes down. Play around with putting the sun angled behind and slightly to the side for some fun natural flares! And when the sun has set, stick around! There's still some beautiful even lighting for awhile after. Make sure you're in a location where you can catch those sunflares/where the sunset won't be blocked by buildings!
Sprinkler Photoshoot
Honestly, I did this one with kids but I think it could be really cute with a fun young couple or family, too! When water is added to the mix, it somehow takes the fun and creativity to a new level. Use these photos for inspo to catch both the details and the bigger picture for a variety of shots and angles after to tell a story. Clothes dripping on a line, wet hair, the big laughter. The photos combined capture the emotion and memories made.
Sticky Watermelon Photoshoot
Perfect for a cute summer theme, add watermelon, popsicles or ice cream to any summer scene and you've got a winner! Plus I mean... an excuse to eat some summer faves!
Flower Field Photoshoot
Flower fields always draw a crowd, and for good reason! These beautiful sunflowers make for gorgeously vibrant photoshoots. If you're unsure where to find one, asking in a community group on facebook or a quick Google search should give you some options.
I find *myself* feeling re-inspired and motivated to shoot, so I hope this has had the same affect on you. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to reach out with any comments or questions!
