1) Book an early session
As you may know, summer in NW Arkansas can get very hot and very humid, so if you're planning a portrait session during the summer months, try to book your session early in the day. Some photographers might only book sessions during the beloved "golden hour", which takes place before sunset, but a very similar lighting can be achieved in the early morning hours. You'll be happy you did, you'll avoid the intense heat and the crowds!
2)Have everything ready the night before
You'll have to get ready very early the morning of your session, because remember, you'll have to meet with your photographer right after sunrise in order to take full advantage of that unique glow that only lasts a couple of hours. Thus, you'll probably benefit from having everything packed and ready to go the night before.
Leave clothes out, yours and your family's; have toys and props packed in the car, as well as water bottles and snacks. Decide what kind of makeup you'll be wearing (if you're applying it yourself), and leave it out and ready.
3) Apply light makeup
Speaking of makeup, no matter how early you meet with your photographer, you'll probably be hot and sweaty during your session, it's just normal and one of the prices to pay for getting beautiful portraits with any of our green and luscious summer background options. That said, I recommend going easy on your makeup application. In the intense heat, a full face of makeup can feel heavy and even turn runny. Instead of a full beat, keep your makeup light.
4) Wear light colors
Light colored clothing reflects most of the visible wavelengths which, in turn, absorbs less heat. On the contrary, darker or black clothing absorbs more wavelengths, absorbing more heat, hence making the clothing warmer to wear. You'll stay significantly cooler and light colors go very well with natural backgrounds.
5) Hydrate
Even if you start early and the sun is still pretty low in the sky, the temperature is high and you and your family members will do much better and have energy for a longer period of time, if you take sips of water regularly throughout the session. It'll keep you refreshed and energized!
And most importantly, SMILE!
You'll be posing for a while, and before you know it, you'll be able to go back into a nice air conditioned car and all your efforts will be so worth the minor inconveniences!
Book your session now!