How About a Backyard Photoshoot?
Summer is on its way, and what better way to celebrate the warmer weather than by going outside? We've all been cooped up in our homes for the past year and a bit, and while health precautions still need to be taken, getting outside for fresh air can do wonders for your physical and mental health both.
With everything that's happened in the past year and a bit, maybe you still don't feel comfortable going too far from your home, or you're only feeling up to going out into your neighbourhood and that's it. This is fair, and no one's stopping you from going only as far as you feel comfortable. With so many public spaces being taken up and everybody at the beach, you may also be feeling less inclined to get family photos or other special photos taken at these locations.
With all that in mind...how about a backyard photoshoot instead?
What is a backyard photoshoot?
It's exactly what you think it is: it's a photoshoot that takes place in the backyard. It could take place in your backyard, or it could take place at the newest addition to my studio, which was recently named The Porch at Woodstone Cottage.
If your backyard is looking too untidy or you haven't got enough time to make your yard presentable, the Porch at Woodstone Cottage can be a pleasant alternative to your upcoming photoshoot. It was recently built in late April 2021 and is a glowing testament of how seriously I take my career as a professional photographer.
The backyard is the perfect alternative to photos where tons of people may end up 'photobombing' your time spent with the family, or if you prefer smaller and more intimate photos in general. Maybe you've spent all your time in the garden making improvements and want to finally relax and enjoy it (I can certainly relate to that!). Whatever your reason, a backyard photoshoot is well worth considering for your next stage of life.
What kind of photos should I get taken in the backyard?
Any kind you'd like! Here are a few ideas if you're feeling stumped:
Graduation - whether this year or the next. You could always bring a small circle of your family or your friends too if you or they want.
Birthdays - for June, July, August, September...you name it.
Spring & summer holidays - think Mother and Father's Days, for example. What better way to honour your parents than with a photoshoot?
Anniversaries - just like birthdays, these take place during any day of the year.
Engagements - for couples who want something a little more private and intimate before their wedding day.
Newborn & children photos - celebrate the little ones, no matter what their age
Maternity & gender reveals - if Mama doesn't feel up to moving around that much, this can make celebrating her new baby more comfortable. For more tips check out my blog post "Creative Photoshoot Ideas to Announce a Pregnancy".
Many, many more kinds of photos can be taken at a backyard photoshoot and yours doesn't necessarily have to have a plan at all! Sometimes that alone can make for a fun afternoon.
What if the weather turns lousy?
Not to worry! Backyard photos can look good whether it's bright and cloudless or overcast and rainy. If you're still hesitant about any other weather that's less than sunny, you can always refer to my blog post for tips entitled "How to Plan for a Rainy Weather Photo Session".
There's a bonus as well: cover exists at The Porch at Woodstone Cottage, so if you decide on this as your location, you can avoid getting rained on without a hitch.
I'm ready to start!
Wonderful! If your backyard is for any reason unavailable, I can offer The Porch at Woodstone Cottage as a location. Let's come up with a plan together when you contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.
Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Photos by Cheryl and a clickable link back to this page.
