Why a garden is perfect for summer family photos

I’m always a fan of family photography in gardens but never more than in the summer. Why? Gardens offer a unique combination that helps deal with heat, bight sun and long days.

Family enjoying the Gardens at HCP.

Beat the heat

We’ve all felt the effect. When we walk into a garden and the temperature drops a few degrees. It’s refreshing and reenergizing. And it’s enough to make a sweltering day so much more enjoyable. On muggy days especially, the extra oxygen emitted by the plants makes breathing easier.

Grad soaking up the sun at Finnerty Gardens.

Dodge the rays

Large shrubs and tree canopies act like parasols from the sun. Unlike at the beach, with its blinding light in the summer, your eyes can relax in the garden.

Keeping it cool at UVic.

Bend time

My favorite part of photos in the garden is the fact that they’re more convenient. Because we’re not on a beach or mountaintop with no cover from the bright sun, we don’t need to be a slave to golden hour (hour before sunset). With plenty of shade from the sun, I can meet families when it’s convenient to them.