Happy Fourth of July!
The fourth of July — a time for fireworks, watermelon, grilling out and remembering our freedom. It’s a pretty special holiday for every American, and it hits home for me in a beyond-special way. Why? Because it’s also my mama’s birthday! If you’ve been around here long enough, you know that my mama is in heaven, and she is a huge reason I started Danyele Vaughn Photography.
Because this national holiday means so much to me, I wanted to make sure I didn’t let another July 4th pass by before capturing it with a fun July fourth photo shoot. And what better way to do that than with my own girls as models?! Keep reading to see how you can get pictures like this for yourself!
July 4th Photo Ideas Tip #1: Location
The first thing to do for any photo shoot is to choose your location. You have plenty of options for this: you could go to a park, a beach, or make it super simple and stay in your front yard! I chose this wall near my downtown Everett photography studio because I liked the way it contrasted with the images.
July 4th Photo Ideas Tip #2: Attire
Once your location is decided, it’s time to pick out coordinating outfits! Most likely, you have something in your closet that will work just fine, so no need to stress. As a mama of twins, I’m always looking for deals and was able to snag my girls’ dresses from a Fred Meyer supersale. You could go simple with jeans and a white top, cute with a red gingham dress, or anything in between. Sport that red, white, and blue!
July 4th Photo Ideas Tip
#3: Props
When you think of the fourth of July, what comes to mind? For me, it’s pinwheels, sparklers, and Rocket Pops! For you, it might be watermelon or some fun sunglasses. The key is to keep it simple. Keeping things simple helps to remove any nerves or stress that can get in the way of making your photo shoot a success. Plus, I think the minimalist approach to photo shoots makes for the best images!
All of the props used in this easy July 4th photo session were purchased in one day. I bought the July-4th-themed windmills from my local dollar store, the Rocket Pops are from the grocery store, and then lastly grabbed some sparklers. Simple and sweet!
Other prop ideas:
- American flag backdrop
- Red, White, and Blue Balloons
- Star Confetti
July 4th Photo Ideas Tip
#4: Get Crafty
Are you a creative or crafty person? Like with many things in life, you can put as much or as little as you want into a 4th of July photo session. If you’re good with fabrics or paper crafts (and have the time), you could make a fun banner or flag decoration for your photos. You could even create a custom outfit! I’m not crafty — well, I am, I'd just rather spend my time taking pictures! — but I love collaborating with other business moms in the Snohomish County area. Those USA sweatshirts my girls are wearing? They’re hand-crafted by a local mama!
July 4th Photo Ideas Tip
#5: Make It Fun
Last but not least, when you’re approaching your 4th of July photoshoot, I recommend that you let go of expectations. I know, I know — easier said than done. But it’s so important, especially when kids are involved! It’s easy to expect our kids to be or act a certain way, but remember that they have a mind of their own.
If you are having someone take your photos, you’re in good hands if the photographer has experience working with kids. I love photographing families and kids because each session is different and I really feel like I’m able to connect with the kids because of my own experience of being a mother. I get down to their level, and in doing so, I find that things become way easier.
Bonus Tip: Using popsicles as props helps a lot to keep kids’ attention for the duration of the photoshoot! Win-win!
Book July 4th Mini Session with Danyele Vaughn Photography
Ready to snag some 4th of July photos for yourself? Click here to join my 4th of July Mini Pop-Up session! These casual photo sessions take place in downtown Everett and are great to do with your kids, family, best friend, significant other, or just yourself! Spots fill up fast, so make sure you sign up soon. I provide the Rocket Pops and sparklers so all you have to do is just show up and be ready to have fun!
For more seasonal-themed photoshoot ideas, you can also check out:
Thanks for reading!
- Danyele
Photos by Danyele Vaughn Photography (find me on Instagram & Facebook)
USA sweatshirts by Jabes Designs
