Finding Inspiration this Spring
Spring is a hopeful and inspiring time of year. The earth is waking up once again and life is ready to burst from bud at any moment. The days are getting longer and warmer, and we find ourselves outside more and more each day. Spring wouldn’t be spring in the Pacific Northwest if it didn’t include it’s unpredictable hail storms, wind, and rain, but even those are opportunities for unique photos.
1 | Morning and evening light
With the sunrise and sunset being at the most reasonable hour this time of year, it’s a little easier to get out to enjoy the beautiful golden rays coming through the tree-line. Look for open shade where the sky is open in front of your subject, keeping them well lit in front and with the sunlight at their back.
2 | Water
A water source, whether it the ocean, a lake or our beloved Puget Sound, there is something likely nearby you to enjoy the morning and evening light. Soft reflections and a touch of color can make for a beautiful subject and an even better background. Just be mindful of all the light shining off the water and don’t blow your highlights (you can underexpose and gain that balance back in edit).
3 | Weather
Seeing the wind blowing or the rain coming down is not exactly the most inviting time to get outside, but it does make for unique photos. Look for the colors and texture that only weather can give, the interest of frost or morning dew can offer a lot of beauty. Don’t be afraid of the rain and if you want to capture the motion of the rain, consider shooting with a slow shutter speed. To stop the motion, make sure your shutter speed is fast at around 1/500 or higher. To protect your camera from the rain, consider buying a waterproof protector and securing it around your camera with a hair tie.
If that simply isn’t your thing, open a window and let the breeze in. Place your subject nearby, allow the curtains to blow, and capture the dramatic window light coming in. You’ll have a strong contrast between the light and shadows, and the closer the subject, the more intense it can be.
4 | Spring Bounty
Just as flowers are coming into bloom, so are bright red strawberries, peas, radishes, and asparagus. Nothing says spring quite like those pops of color we haven’t seen around in nearly a year. Place a vase of daffodils or a berry basket of radishes at your table near window light, in your garden/outdoor table, at the farmer’s market, or on the go. Signs of the season are one of the most relatable subjects as we are all experiencing it around the same time.
5 | Spring Flowers
April showers bring May flowers, and it’s the perfect time to capture the signs and beauty of the season. Consider using flowers to frame your subject, look for different angles (get down low), and look for interesting light around the blooms.
6 | Patio Season
As temperatures continue to rise, we love to take our meals outdoors. Enjoy your afternoon tea or evening cocktail in the golden light of the afternoon. Look for opportunities to spruce up your area and create a vignette in your yard that you enjoy taking your camera out for. Even if you’re looking at small details (like the strawberries mentioned above or flowers), creating those little spaces for a candid shot with your loved one, kiddo, or just your setup will allow for inspiration and interest in your space.
