Summer is almost here, and it’s a great time to plan some fun photo ideas to make it even more exciting! Capturing summer moments is such a joyful thing to do, whether it's for yourself or helping friends plan their photo shoots. That’s why we made a list of the best places and ideas for summer photos.
Whether you’re relaxing at home, going somewhere new, or having fun at the beach, there are so many ways to take awesome pictures. This list has summer photoshoot ideas for everyone - whether you’re taking selfies, hanging out with your kids or partner, or making memories with friends and family.
Don’t worry if you’re not going on a big trip this summer. You don’t have to go far to take great summer pictures! The best memories come from simple, little moments, and we’ve got tips to help you make every photo special.
Photo location: At home or in a public water park
Last summer, I took pictures of my cousin’s kids jumping into the pool. I used burst mode on my camera to catch the cool moments when the water droplets were flying in the air. The kids were laughing and splashing, and every photo looked so happy and full of energy. It was such a fun idea for summer pictures because the bright pool colors and playful vibes felt like summer.
Another summer photo idea I love is underwater photos. Taking pictures of people underwater in a pool or the ocean looks so cool. The pictures look dreamy and beautiful, and it’s such a creative way to make summer photos even more special. If you want to try something unique for your summer memories, I recommend it.
Photo location: In the garden or near the pool
I took pictures of some fresh fruit – watermelon, peaches, and berries. I put them in a picnic basket, and the sunlight made the colors look so bright and pretty. It was a simple but fun way to show off the best foods of summer. If you love food, this is a great summer food photography idea.
For drinks, I took pictures of mojitos by the pool. The mint leaves and colorful decorations made the drinks look so refreshing. I added fun sunglasses and towels to make the pictures feel chill and summery.
Photo location: Paris
Last July, we got a photographer to take pictures of everyone having fun at my friend’s birthday party. The sunshine, laughing, and yummy cake made it such a perfect summer photo moment. Even now, looking at the pictures reminds me of how awesome summer parties can be. It was a great example of birthday photography, where you can see all the happy vibes and emotions.
Another time, I surprised my parents with an anniversary photoshoot on the beach during sunset. The warm, golden sunlight made everything look magical, and their big smiles made it even better. It was such a sweet and romantic summer photo idea. The beach and sunset together created an unforgettable vibe.
Photo location: In a field or local park
A picnic is one of the best and easiest ways to take summer photos. One time, I did a summer photoshoot at a park where we set up a bright, colorful blanket and added fresh flowers. The mix of happy moments and the beautiful background made the photos so special.
For a maternity shoot, I helped a friend take summer photos with baby shoes and a chalkboard showing her due date. The sunlight made everything look soft and magical, creating sweet pictures. This is a perfect summer idea for anyone who wants family photos with a special touch.
Photo: Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
Summer festivals are perfect for summer photoshoots because they’re full of color and energy. Last year, I went to a local music festival and got some awesome photos of my friends having fun during the live shows. The lights and the crowd made the photos feel really exciting and full of summer vibes.
Whether it's fireworks or bright booths, festivals are a great place to take fun, lively photos. It was also a great chance to try nightlife photography. The evening lights made the photos look magical.
If you're going to a festival or fair, you can use the lights and dynamic atmosphere to make the perfect setting for a summer photoshoot. It's a great way to capture fun moments. These kinds of backgrounds are perfect for family summer pictures.
Photo: Brooklyn Bridge Park
This summer don’t forget to check out your local town center for a fun summer photoshoot. I recently did a shoot for my friend Tata on her birthday, and it was so much fun. We found a cute little cafe with flowers outside and a colorful mural on a nearby wall, which made the perfect background for our summer pictures. The golden light made the photos look extra special.
Whether you’re in your hometown or exploring a new city, places like the city center have so much to offer – from fun stores to old buildings and busy sidewalks.
Photo: Everglades National Park in Florida
Taking pictures of your summer trips is one of my favorite ways to save memories. Whether you’re going on a family road trip or traveling alone, photos of pretty views, animals, and fun moments can tell a great story. Last summer, during a road trip to the mountains, I took some beautiful pictures of the landscape at golden hour, and they became some of my favorite summer photos.
I’ve also learned that the best time for landscape and wildlife photography is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light makes everything look charmed.
Photo: Venice, Italy
A boat ride is one of the best summer photoshoot ideas I’ve had. I did a photoshoot on a sailboat in the late afternoon with a beautiful sunset in the background, and it turned out amazing! The sun’s reflection on the water and the breeze in our hair made the photos feel fun and magical.
Whether you’re on a sailboat, pontoon, or even a jet ski, the water and sunlight will make your photos glow with that perfect summer vibe. If you want something extra special, Venice is a great choice with its famous canals and gondolas. It’s the perfect place for a romantic summer couple photoshoot.
Photo: Carousel Park
Fairs and markets are a great idea for summer photoshoots. You can take lots of fun pictures of people, bright colors, and interesting items. Last year, I took pictures at a local fair, and the lights, carnival games, and people eating cotton candy made everything feel fun and playful. The energy was amazing, and the photos turned out full of excitement.
Whether it’s a fair or a farmer’s market, the bright and lively atmosphere is perfect for creative summer pictures. It’s a great place for family photos or to capture fun summer moments.
Photo: Maui's Kaanapali Beach, Hawaii
Spending the day at the beach is a classic summer photoshoot idea. A few months ago, I took some fun photos of my friends and me building sandcastles, playing volleyball, and enjoying the waves. The beach vibes made for some of the best family summer photos.
For clear action shots, like kids running in the waves, I suggest using a fast camera setting to catch every splash. For children, sometimes the best moments are simple – like a photo of them eating ice cream or picking up seashells. If you want some fun beach photo ideas, try getting down to their level and capturing those natural moments.
Photo: Sandy Strolls, Sydney
I love using natural light for my summer photoshoots. One of my favorite memories was taking pictures of a soft sunrise at the beach. The golden light in the morning is perfect for portraits or nature photos. It makes everything look calm and dreamy.
If you're into golden hour photography, that's when the light is super soft and beautiful, which is great for portraits and outdoor photos. I’ve taken photos at this time, and the way the light makes people's skin glow is so unique.
When it gets dark, don’t forget about taking photos of the city at night. Last summer, I took pictures of the city skyline lit up, and the photos turned out really bright and colorful. It was a great summer photography idea to capture the energy of the city.
At FixThePhoto, we’ve tried all the summer photo ideas on our list to make sure they show what summer is all about. We picked these ideas because they show the fun and warmth of summer. Whether it’s the golden hour light, fun moments at the beach, or pictures of summer activities, these ideas will help you take the most colorful and real photos.
One important aspect we considered is the outfit choices for your summer photoshoots. The key is to wear clothes that are not only stylish but also breathable. Lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, and jersey are great options as they allow air to flow, reducing the chances of sweating.
Here's a little tip from me: when it's hot outside, staying comfy is really important. I always recommend putting on sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, and if you’re taking summer photos, use a mattifying powder. It’s also good to drink lots of water if you're outside for a long time. And don't forget to bring some wipes or a refreshing spray to cool off in between pictures.
We’ve tried shooting in different places, and the location can significantly affect how the photos turn out. For example, a summer shoot in a garden with colorful flowers and plants made the pictures look like a fairytale. But shooting on a busy New York street gave the photos an exciting, city vibe with cool buildings and street art.
From our experience at FixThePhoto, we’ve learned that good lighting can change your photos. We always recommend taking pictures during the golden hour, which is right after the sun rises or just before it sets. The light is soft and looks great on everyone’s skin, and it helps avoid harsh shadows.
The weather can change quickly, so we’ve learned to adjust our photoshoots. One day it rained, and we took pictures of a couple holding an umbrella in a park. The cloudy sky made the photos look romantic, like a scene from the movie Rainy Day in New York.
