There is no denying that a successful photoshoot does not just happen itself. You have to line up things even when you are doing an impromptu photoshoot. But this is an exception. No matter what place you choose for your picnic photo shoot, a lot of planning has to go into it.
That is to say, from choosing the perfect outdoors, styling props, outfits, color scheme to hiring a professional photographer, even a small thing that seemed trivial initially is crucial to make your picnic photo shoot a success. As the picnic always makes for a fun and gorgeous photos, here we have rounded up some essentials for your next picture-perfect picnic.
Essentials for Your Fancy Picnic Photoshoot
Transforming a simple picnic into a lavish affair requires more than just delectable food and scenic surroundings—it demands meticulous attention to detail and a touch of opulence. Whether nestled in a sun-dappled meadow or perched atop a manicured garden, a fancy picnic photoshoot is an artful fusion of culinary delights, stylish decor, and the whimsical allure of nature.
From sumptuous spreads adorned with gourmet delicacies to elegantly arranged tablescapes embellished with fresh blooms and fine linens, every element harmonizes to create an enchanting tableau worthy of admiration. As the camera captures each exquisite detail, a narrative of refined indulgence unfolds, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world where leisure meets luxury amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Right Destination/Location/Setting
Destination/setting/location, without a doubt is one of the essentials if you want a dreamy picnic photoshoot. Choosing a pretty as well as the right setting can take your picnic photoshoot to the next level. For example, scenic parks and open skies in Prague or unfurling woodlands of London make the ideal settings for your picturesque Sunday afternoon picnic. Ultra-bright sunlight, grass, meadows will allow you to take festive photos. So, it is important to choose a picnic location that has a perfect combo lighting to make your picnic photoshoot world-class.
Proposal photoshoot by Vittorio, Localgrapher in Cefalu
Play with Seasons
Imaging picnicking at Niagara Falls in winters, if you don’t marvel frozen falls, you might ruin your picnic feel. That means capturing the right picnic-fun feel and choosing the right season greatly matters.
For example, if Wendy’s secret garden is your chosen picnic spot while touring Sydney, its derelict railway-yard space, monuments, and native herbs will add a visual symphony in your picnic photoshoot. Luckily, reliable photography services like Locagraphers are available all year round; you might want to hire them to capture the seasonal beauty of your picnic locations.
Proposal photoshoot by Roberto, Localgrapher in Capri
Choose your Outfits
This might sound bizarre to you, but dressing properly is an essential part of a picnic photoshoot. Even if your location and lighting are planned perfectly, wrong outfits can ruin the theme. Remember that you’re going for a picnic photoshoot; you don’t have to dress like a bridesmaid.
Plus, if your outfit doesn’t keep up with the location, you will not enjoy dreamy photo scenes. Make sure to make your outfit classic complementary with both location and weather.
Family photoshoot by Patricia, Localgrapher in Albufeira
Carry a Perfect Picnic Look
You might not consider it as important as other essentials, but since you’re going to spend half if not the full day on the picnic spot, you need touch up accessories to maintain that subtle and natural picnic look.
Engagement photoshoot by Tatiana, Localgrapher at Neuschwanstein Castle
Use Picnic Props
Don’t worry if you haven’t heard about them before. Anything that coordinates with your picnic spot can be added to a prop list. You can take a long cool trunk, vintage lamps, colorful fabrics, paper lanterns, and floral objects to a picnic spot. Let your Localgraher creatively play with these props to make your picnic photoshoot worth showing on your Instagram posts.
Proposal photoshoot by Theodoro, Localgrapher in Dublin
Hire Professional Photographers
Only a professional photographer can tell you the best angles and spots for taking the right pictures. Hiring a local photographer is an ideal decision to capture your fun moments in the candid photos.
Proposal photoshoot by Felix, Localgrapher in Queenstown
Don't Forget About Backdrops
Backdrops have a lot to tell about the pictures. A well-captured backdrop enhances the quality of your pictures. And picnic photography is all about seizing the beauty of the location and how much do you enjoy it.
Proposal photoshoot by Joss, Localgrapher in San Francisco
The Best Time to Shoot
Early dawn is a golden hour to shoot as the light comes from a direct angle, giving a nice glow to your photos. However, if you’re shooting in summers, sunlight will brighten your images, but you need to use reflectors to mitigate the harsh effect. So make sure you choose the right time to shoot.
Proposal photoshoot by Raymond, Localgrapher in Los Angeles
Color Scheme Matters
Details in photography matter when it comes to capturing natural poses. For a pleasing picnic photoshoot, you don’t only need good lighting but also proper tones and color scheme. Plan your picnic theme such as simple, family, and friends, contemporary that goes with seasonal feeling to give your picnic photoshoot a perfect color scheme.
Couple’s photoshoot by Halim, Localgrapher in Cairo
Take a Group Photo
Picnic photo shoots are generally group photos. That means your pictures must depict the fun and bonding of your loved ones. Hire a Localgrapher to get some interesting and cool ideas of your group photos showing you all having a blast at the picnic spot such as holding hands at the beach.
Birthday photoshoot by Dimitrios, Localgrapher in Rethymno
Enjoy Picnic Food/Dessert
A picnic photoshoot is incomplete with food pictures. Whether you take desserts, sandwiches, pizza, or a wine, clicking candid poses when you eat food is one way to add a colorful and natural feel to the pictures.
Couple’s photoshoot by Alex, Localgrapher in Copenhagen
Match Your Picnic Blanket
Like showing food is essential in a picnic photo shoot, a picnic blanket is your couch throw. Take some neutral color picnic blankets along with you to make pictures look natural and vibrant.
Couple’s photoshoot by Abbas, Localgrapher in Istanbul
Focus on Non-food Objects
You need a few non-food objects to make your picnic photoshoot aesthetically appealing. That includes flowers, trays, baskets, napkins, and white dishes. Capture them in your photos to add an organic feel.
Proposal photoshoot by Raul, Localgrapher in the Dolomites
Add that Romantic Vibe
Make your picnic photoshoot special by adding a romantic vibe to it; of course, if the love of your life accompanies you. Theme, goal, and vibe will change the entire outlook of your picnic pictures, so have a few romantic poses.
Proposal photoshoot by Danielle, Localgrapher in Lanzarote
Adjust Camera Setting
Using point-and-shoot cameras in macro mode is good to capture texture, beauty, and other details of a picnic spot. However, it is always better to hire a private photographer who understands the various settings as well as camera angles.
Couple’s photoshoot by Ilyas, Localgrapher in Marrakesh
Wear Sunscreen
Last but not least, always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh sun rays as photoshoot might take long, and too much exposure to the sun will cause damage. Of course, you have to make sure your face look flawless in the camera.
Family photoshoot by Anton, Localgrapher in Dubai
A picnic photoshoot is all about having fun; however, make sure you’re equipped with the right essentials to create the most amazing picnic photoshoot of your life.
Picnic Photoshoot Ideas from Around the Globe
Exploring picnic photoshoot ideas from around the globe can add a unique cultural touch to your celebration. Here are some inspiring ideas from different countries:
French-inspired Picnic
Channel the romance and sophistication of a French-inspired picnic with a spread of artisanal cheeses, crusty baguettes, charcuterie, and decadent pastries. Set up your picnic in a picturesque park or garden, and don’t forget to bring along a bottle of wine or champagne to toast to the occasion.
Popular photoshoot destinations in France (to get inspired by):
Japanese Hanami Picnic
Embrace the beauty of cherry blossom season with a traditional Japanese hanami picnic. Spread out a blanket under a canopy of cherry blossom trees, and enjoy classic Japanese snacks like onigiri (rice balls), sushi, and sakura-themed treats. Capture the ethereal beauty of the cherry blossoms in your photos for a truly enchanting experience. You’ll surely remember this picnic photoshoot forever.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Japan (to get inspired by):
Moroccan-style Picnic
Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Marrakech with a Moroccan-style picnic featuring colorful rugs, floor cushions, and ornate lanterns. Serve up traditional Moroccan dishes like couscous, tagine, and baklava, and add a touch of exotic flair with mint tea and hookah pipes. Capture the rich textures and vibrant colors of Moroccan decor in your photos for an exotic and memorable picnic experience.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Morocco (to get inspired by):
Italian Dolce Vita Picnic
Experience the la dolce vita (the sweet life) with an Italian-inspired picnic filled with delicious antipasti, fresh pasta, and gelato. Set up your picnic near a scenic vineyard or olive grove, and indulge in classic Italian dishes while enjoying the picturesque countryside views. Capture the rustic charm and relaxed elegance of Italian culture in your photos for a taste of la dolce vita.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Italy (to get inspired by):
Hawaiian Luau Picnic
Bring the spirit of aloha to your picnic with a Hawaiian luau-themed celebration. Deck out your picnic area with tropical flowers, tiki torches, and colorful leis, and serve up island-inspired dishes like poke bowls, grilled pineapple, and coconut shrimp. Don’t forget to capture the laid-back vibe and vibrant energy of a Hawaiian luau in your photos for a fun and festive picnic experience.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Hawaii (to get inspired by):
Swiss Alpine Picnic
Escape to the breathtaking Swiss Alps with a mountain-inspired picnic surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. Pack hearty Swiss fare like fondue, raclette, and hearty bread, and warm up with a thermos of hot chocolate or mulled wine. Capture the majestic beauty of the alpine landscape in your photos for a cozy and picturesque picnic experience.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Switzerland (to get inspired by):
Indian Bollywood Picnic
Add a touch of Bollywood glamour to your picnic with an Indian-inspired celebration filled with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and lively music. Set up your picnic with colorful blankets, cushions, and floor pillows, and serve up an array of Indian street food like samosas, chaat, and kebabs. Don’t forget to capture the vibrant energy and festive spirit of Bollywood in your photos for a memorable and colorful picnic experience.
Popular photoshoot destinations in India (to get inspired by):
Greek Mediterranean Picnic
Transport yourself to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with a Greek-inspired picnic filled with fresh seafood, Greek salads, and baklava. Set up your picnic near the sea or overlooking a scenic coastal vista, and enjoy the laid-back vibe and warm hospitality of Greek culture. Capture the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of the Mediterranean in your photos for a truly unforgettable picnic experience.
Popular photoshoot destinations in Greece (to get inspired by):
Each of these picnic ideas offers a unique cultural perspective and a chance to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re indulging in French cheeses, Japanese cherry blossoms, or Hawaiian luaus, embrace the cultural richness and diversity of the world as you celebrate with a memorable picnic photoshoot.
