Outdoor photo sessions are a lot of fun — but let’s be honest, they can also feel a little stressful. When you book an outdoor session, it helps to be prepared for changing light, unpredictable weather, and the little surprises that come with shooting outside. These tips will help you feel prepared and confident when booking your next outdoor photography session.

Plan Your Shoot Around the Best Lighting

One of the first things your photographer will likely recommend is planning your session around the best lighting. Natural light changes throughout the day, and the right time depends on both your vision and your photographer’s style.

Golden hour is the most popular choice because it offers soft, warm, and flattering light. It occurs during the hour just after sunrise and the hour before sunset. Blue hour happens shortly before sunrise or right after the sun sets, creating a cooler, more muted tone. Overcast days are also a great option, as cloud cover provides soft, even light without harsh shadows.

Some photographers, however, love working with bright, direct sunlight for a more bold and dramatic look. Ultimately, the best lighting choice comes down to the style you love and what your photographer specializes in.

Choose Outfits that Match Your Surroundings

Outfits play a big role in how your photos will ultimately look and feel. Choosing clothing that complements your outdoor location helps create a cohesive, natural look rather than drawing attention in a distracting way. Bold patterns and bright colors can sometimes feel out of place in natural settings — unless that’s part of your personal style, of course.

For a beach session, light, flowy clothing works beautifully and adds movement to your photos. For a park or nature setting, natural tones and classic styles tend to photograph best and blend effortlessly with the surroundings.

Prepare for the Weather

Preparing for the weather is one of the most important steps when planning an outdoor session. Keep an eye on the forecast in the days leading up to your shoot, as outdoor conditions can change quickly. Having a backup plan in place will help reduce stress if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

If rain is in the forecast, consider bringing an umbrella or other weather-friendly accessories. Rainy sessions can actually result in beautiful, unique photos — as long as you’re prepared and open to the experience.

Choose Natural, Long-Lasting Makeup

Natural, long-lasting makeup works best for outdoor photoshoots. It complements natural surroundings beautifully while enhancing your features without looking overdone. Since outdoor sessions can involve heat, wind, or humidity, it’s important to choose makeup that will hold up throughout changing weather conditions.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is always important, especially during longer outdoor photo sessions. You’ll likely be moving around quite a bit, and warm or sunny weather can quickly lead to dehydration. Drinking plenty of water beforehand and bringing a bottle with you will help you stay comfortable, energized, and feeling your best throughout the session.

Move Naturally

As with any photoshoot, it’s important to move naturally during your session. When poses feel stiff or forced — whether from nerves or inexperience — it can be more noticeable in an outdoor setting. Relax, breathe, and focus on enjoying the moment; natural movement often makes for the most flattering and authentic photos.

Bring Items for Touch-Ups

Even if you’re wearing long-lasting makeup, touch-ups may still be needed throughout your session. Be sure to bring essentials like blotting sheets, lip products, powder — anything you think you might need. A compact mirror can also be helpful for quick and easy touch-ups between shots.

Be Open to the Environment

When you choose an outdoor setting for your session, you need to be open to everything that comes with it — the changing light, unpredictable weather, natural elements, and even the occasional passerby. Outdoor photography is all about flexibility and embracing the environment rather than fighting it. Be prepared for wind, insects, and unexpected sounds, and let them become part of the story rather than obstacles.

Most importantly, trust your photographer to guide you through these challenges and use them to your advantage. The outdoors offers a richness and authenticity that studio settings can’t always replicate — from vibrant colors and textures to spontaneous moments — making each session unique and full of life.

Augusta, Georgia Couples and Portrait Photographer

Ultimately, an outdoor session is as much about embracing the experience as it is about capturing the images. By staying flexible, open to surprises, and attuned to your surroundings, you’ll not only get beautiful photos but also enjoy a session that feels natural, fun, and uniquely yours.

I am a photographer based in Augusta, Georgia, but I also love to travel to surrounding areas. To get in touch with me, please visit my contact form here!