Planning summer photos in Calgary? Here are 7 must-haves to bring to your next photo session.

You've made the investment to get summer photos in Calgary, done all the planning, and now you're wondering...what are some must-haves to bring to the session? Don't worry - I've got you! As a Calgary lifestyle photographer, I've learned what you need (and don't need) to bring to a session. Listed below are the top 7 must-haves for summer photos in Calgary.

Summer photos must-have #1 - Mosquito repellent

Mosquito repellent is the number 1 must-have for summer photos in Calgary. Because mosquitoes are everywhere. And mosquito bites are THE WORST. If you read nothing else in this blog, know this: You will get bitten by mosquitoes during summer photos in Calgary unless you wear mosquito repellent. It doesn't matter which location you are at (Fish Creek, Nose Hill Park, downtown), bring it and wear it. I say this from experience. I have forgotten it myself more times than I'd like to admit and I always pay for it. Your future self will thank you!

Summer photos must-have #2 - Blotting papers

One must-have for summer photos in Calgary is blotting papers. Hot summer nights = hot, sweaty mess! Blotting papers can be your best investment for soaking up unwanted shine on your forehead and ruining your beautifully done makeup. Men could benefit from this too! You can easily find them at Shoppers Drug Mart, Sephora and online. They are cheap and well worth it!

Summer photos must-have #3 - Layers of some kind

Another must-have for summer photos in Calgary is layers! While it's summer, it's also Calgary, and let's be real...the weather changes FAST in this city. Ever heard the phrase, "Wait 20 minutes and the weather will change?" I'm pretty sure whoever made that up was a Calgarian. Not only will layers (for example, a jacket or light sweater) help if the weather changes, it can add interest and variety to your photos.

Summer photos must-have #4 - a blanket

A great must-have to bring with you for summer photos in Calgary is a blanket. Again, you're probably thinking "A blanket in summertime? You're crazy lady!" Hear me out....to get a great variety of photos, many photographers (myself included) like to do a few poses and prompts while everyone is sitting. There's also fun games you can play with blankets & kids that make for beautiful, authentic photos.

Images where couples are laying down are so romantic, and family shots with everyone piled on a blanket are so endearing. And honestly some people don't like the idea of potentially ruining their outfits by sitting or laying on the grass. And if you've got young kids, they more often than not hate touching grass (I see this a lot!) Just make sure your blanket is a subtle print/colour that goes with the vibe and colour story of your wardrobe, so those images blend seamlessly with the rest of the session.

Summer photo must-have #5 - An umbrella

I highly recommend an umbrella as a must-have for summer photos in Calgary. As I mentioned previously, Calgary weather is SO unpredictable, it's best to err on the side of caution. Make sure to bring an umbrella that coordinates with your outfits. Clear umbrellas are trending in photography right now and go with pretty much any vibe. I've got one in my car just in case! Even if you don't use them for the actual photos, an umbrella is a great must-have to bring to your session in case the weather changes.

Summer photos must-have #6 - Water

Last of all, I always recommend water as a must-have for summer photos in Calgary. The weather can be unpredictable, but it is summer and Calgary has had some VERY hot evenings. Most sessions run anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours with walking time, so it's important to stay hydrated and comfortable. The last thing photographers want for their clients is for them to be parched and uncomfortable because that will most likely be reflected in the photos.

Summer photo must-haves #7 - Your gorgeous faces

With all this said, make sure to bring your smiling faces to your summer photos in Calgary and be ready for anything. Summer sessions are dreamy, romantic, fun, sun-soaked and downright MAGICAL. If you've never done summer photos, try them and you will see!