Summer will soon be here once again, which means one thing; an opportunity to throw on a swimsuit and head to the beach. Beach days are full of sun, laughter and of course photographs. But with Instagram being flooded with swimsuit shots all summer long, how are you going to make yours stand out? Here’s how to take killer Instagram swimsuits shots in six simple steps…
#1 Feel confident
Feeling good in your swimwear is a great way to boost your confidence on the beach. It all starts with the right swimwear choice for you, from swimsuits and bikinis, to tankinis and kaftans, with the right swimwear style for your body shape your photo will be effortless as your confidence shines through!
You know your body better than anyone, and you know when you feel most confident. Exploring different poses can help you discover some angles that you feel most confident in. Certain angles highlight different features, so experiment in a mirror and see which poses make you glow with confidence.
#2 Stand on your tip toes
There are little tips and tricks that can elongate your shape. When you stand on your tip toes your legs appear stronger and leaner, and as your body is stretched you will also appear taller.
Pushing your hips out to lift your bum and create an arch in your back is another way of creating shape in your body, as well as standing tall while engaging your core. There are endless poses that can elevate your shape; check out this list of flattering bikini poses so you’ll be nailing bikini shots all summer long!
#3 Choose the best spot
A dreamy background is crucial to a good photo, whether you’re by the pool, exploring the local town, at a party, or spending the day at the beach great photo opportunities are around every corner. Look for a background which is lightly contrasted as it will elongate your shape and make you appear more tanned (bonus!).
Next, consider how you’d like the atmosphere to look. For instance, if looking to capture an idyllic peaceful paradise, try and find a background with no people around, an untouched landscape that is a snapshot of nature. Or if you’re looking for a photograph which shows an adventure, head to the local markets, cafes or harbour to capture the local culture in full swing.
#4 Look for the best lighting
The peak midday sun can be too harsh in some environments, so look for a shady spot where you can play with angles and the placement of sunlight. In general, the sunlight during late mornings or afternoons is less harsh, meaning it is much better light for any photo opportunity.
Top tip: If you’ve been tasked as the photographer for a friend, as them to turn in a circle and follow them so you can find the best sunlight, then adapt the background to the best light!
#5 Focus in
Get to know your camera, have a play with the settings and remember to clean the lens! The latest smartphones come with a portrait mode, so you’ll be able to take high-quality super-focused photographs with a touch of a button.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different photography apps that can help elevate your photo to a whole new level. Adobe Lightroom CC, VSCO and even the standard Instagram filters give your photos an artistic edge, bringing out the beautiful colours and contrasts in your beach landscape. There’s no harm in giving your photo your own twist with a filter so get imaginative!
#6 Have a blast
Don’t forget to have fun and be you! Photographs which capture moments that show your personality are the real gems. Your expression will be natural and authentic, meaning your photo will be too! If you’re worried about how you look, this will show in your face, and it may even appear serious. The candid off-guard photos are the real representation of who you are.
Your confidence, with the right swimsuit + the perfect lightning and a picturesque background = a killer Instagram shot. So go forth, be silly, try new things, take incredible photographs, and have fun!