Portrait Photography in Spring : Using Colour to Your Advantage Outdoors

Portrait Photography in Spring

As they say a picture’s worth a thousand words and will last for many, many years. We all want to look our best when that moment is captured, so figuring out how best to take advantage of the moment can create questions. Combine that with your surroundings, the season or a theme and the task can be even more daunting.

The spring season is fast approaching, and in my opinion, it is a perfect time to take portraits outdoors and make the most of the beautiful colours that spring brings after winter. Summer is lovely of course, and the other seasons all have something to offer, but there’s just something about spring in Brisbane.

Why Choose Spring for Outdoor Portrait Photography?

1. The Grass Is Greener… All Around

Spring brings life with it. The great outdoors seem to be more alive with vibrant colours. The grass is greener and the flowers are in bloom.

2. Lighting

There is something about the light in spring. It has a kind of soft glow, not quite as harsh as summer.

3. Perfect Weather

It’s not too hot in spring, so no need to worry about looking sweaty or sitting uncomfortably in the heat while trying to get that perfect shot. Children are less likely to start fussing, and even those getting their pregnancy photos done are likely to feel a little more comfortable than in summer.

Outdoor Colour Photography Tips

Anyone can take photos in colour, but taking colour portrait photographs outdoors that have that wow factor takes a few tricks. Awareness of the surrounding colours is crucial to getting that perfect shot, and those getting their portraits done should be made aware of their choice of colours with their clothing. Too many harsh colours can clash and cause a confusing photo, taking the attention away from the person or people in the shot.

Using Colour Outdoors for Portrait Photography in Spring

1. Choose One Dominant Colour

As mentioned before, too many bright and vivid colours in one picture can be distracting. Choosing one predominant colour scheme for the portrait can really make for an eye-catching images. By carefully selecting the viewpoint, and the way in which the image is framed, the result can be amazing.

2. Keep It Simple

One good general rule of thumb with outdoor portrait photography is to keep it simple, particularly when it comes to colour. A picture with too much detail will have significantly less impact than a portrait with only the critical elements of the scene. This is one reason why spring is perfect for outdoor colour portraits. Although the season brings many colours with it, there is simplicity in spring. Another trick is to use soft, pastel colours that are almost monochrome. These are great for portraiture.

3. Lighting

Lighting is key in portraiture and can mean the difference between a great portrait and a not-so great one. When shooting outdoor portraits, you may not always be in control of the type of lighting you’ll get, but there are ways to use the light to your advantage. Light is different depending on the time of day. Midday light tends to be much stronger than the soft light that comes with the early evening. Choosing what time of day to have your portraits done will have an effect on the colours as well. A soft light is more flattering than harsh light for the subject of the photograph.

It’s All About Perception

Colour is relative to other colours present, and these can be used to your advantage. The right balance of colour and light can not only make for a pretty picture, but can hide flaws such as blemishes and wrinkles and even make you look slimmer. Take advantage of the colour and light that spring brings and take your portrait sessions outdoors!

Portrait Photography In Spring