Summer has just started, and if you’re familiar with the Arizona heat, you know that despite the allure of venturing into the desert, poolside photoshoots are the safer option. I just wrapped up a swimming pool photography session that featured a blend of mid-century aesthetics, bold touches, and defined lighting choices.
Watermelon + Retro Americana
The idea was to style the pool scene with a creative twist. Since the pool is located in Old Town Scottsdale, in a building with mid-century living accents, it was a great opportunity to tie something playful into the retro Americana vibe. The model in the pool wore watermelon slices as earrings and accessories, hinting at surreal composite photography.
The light during the shoot was quite harsh, and the trees around the pool cast shadows that were difficult to control. Soft, diffused lighting was the answer to avoid harsh skin tones and unwanted reflections. How did I recreate this clean summer look without sacrificing tones? I used compact light modifiers that are excellent for their versatility and portability. I recommend checking them out using my promo code MAGCWS at checkout.
Poolside Photography Expert Tips
Here are some insights I’ve learned over the years to optimize any poolside photography session:
- Timing: If the pool location still has great lighting during golden hour, that could be your sweet spot. However, if you’re shooting at midday as I did, avoid deep shadows and consider using reflectors or light modifiers.
- Use Props: Props add a lifestyle energy, turning a simple image into an editorial-style scene.
- Composition: Observe your surroundings and make the most of the elements around you.
- Candid Moments: Spontaneous moments often capture the feeling of summer in the most authentic way.
Green Lime Bikini + Natural Light
In another set, the model changed into a lime green bikini that truly popped against the cool water tones and the surrounding environment. Since it was still early in the afternoon and the pool area doesn’t get covered in deep shade until around 3 PM, I was able to shoot with natural light. I opted for a high shutter speed, which allowed me to capture super sharp images without relying on artificial lighting.
Additional Ideas
Here are a few additional ideas I haven’t tried during this photoshoot, but I believe they could be grea options for a swimming pool session:
- Experiment with Shutter Speeds: Want energy? Use fast shutter speeds (1/500 sec or faster) to freeze water droplets. Prefer dreamy? Try slower speeds (1/15 sec or slower) to create movement in the water for a surreal photography feel.
- Consider a Drone Shot: An overhead perspective can dramatically showcase the symmetry of a pool layout or emphasize the isolation and surrealism in the composition. When used well, this brings fine art impact to otherwise editorial shots.
Book Your Own Poolside Session
Based in Scottsdale or Phoenix and ready to capture stunning poolside photos? Let’s make it happen. Whether you’re envisioning a polished lifestyle series, a bold and edgy shoot, or striking poolside portraits, I deliver unique concepts crafted just for you, paired with magazine-quality results.
Stay cool and keep shooting,
Sal
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