Why Do a Themed Photoshoot?
A themed photoshoot can seem restrictive at first glance. However, it can be highly creative by narrowing on one theme. A themed portrait session is also a great way to role-play or indulge in something you otherwise may not normally do. Ever wondered what it would be like to be a wizard from Harry Potter, one of Marvel’s Avengers, or an elf from a fantasy world?
Another reason to go for a themed photoshoot is to take an activity or hobby you already do, and then take it in a new direction. For this photo session, we took the book lover off of the couch and placed her in a cozy and secluded outdoor setting.
How to Select a Theme for Your Portrait Session
Do you have a favorite hero or supervillain? Or how about a movie or TV show you just can’t get enough of? Do you have any hobbies or activities that you absolutely love and would like to focus on?
Here are some ideas to consider when thinking about pursuing a themed portrait session:
- Time periods: Ancient or Medieval history, Roaring Twenties,
- Movies: Beauty and the Beast, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, The Great Gatsby, The Avengers
- Fairy tales: Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, The Little Mermaid
- Fantasy: elves, fairies, magicians, enchanted forest
- Activities or hobbies: Carnivals, lemonade/hot chocolate stands, books, painting, colored chalk
How to Pick Outfits and Accessories For a Themed Photoshoot
In order for your theme to stick and really drive home with others, having the right props will make all the difference. Picking ill-fitting or unrelated props runs the risk of confusing the viewer not recognizing the theme you’re aiming for.
Be sure to research the theme carefully again in advance. Watch your favorite movie or TV show again, do a Google or Pinterest search. Beauty and the Beast will be easily recognizable, for example, by wearing the iconic yellow dress. In our example, the bookworm theme is easily recognizable by the stacks of books strewn around the reader.
Finding outfits and accessories does not have to break the bank. Items needed for your themed photoshoot often can be found at home or crafted by hand. If making a purchase is required for the necessary items, thrift stores can offer up a treasure trove of options.
Choosing the Best Environment for Your Themed Shoot
Themed photoshoots can take place at home or in a studio in front of a plain background. This works well especially when the images focus on the face and make-up, or if a background will be added later.
Environments outside the studio can elevate an image from average to truly amazing. Environments should be chosen based on the theme of the shoot. For example, fantasy characters such as elves and fairies would be better suited in a forest area. A superhero/supervillain theme, on the other hand, might work better in a more urban area. Environmental conditions that interfere with the model, such as wind in the hair or rain in the face, will add more of a dramatic flair to the image.
A themed photoshoot can offer a fun twist to an otherwise normal looking portrait session. Themed shoots can help add clarity and focus when trying to decide what kind of pictures to take. Plus, it allows you to role-play or take on a persona that you otherwise may never get to do. Themed portrait sessions are just one of many methods to make some great looking images, so don’t be afraid to brainstorm and experiment!
Looking for an Odessa TX photographer? Are you interested in capturing your next idea for senior or family portraits? We’d love to hear from you!
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