Summm-Summm-Summatime! Summer is here and the kids are already wild and free. Moms and kids everywhere are scribbling down their summer wishes and bucket lists. I’m the most basic of all moms out there in my list creation, but decided to put a fun (for me) spin on our summer list. We are creating a summer photo bucket list to do with the kids!
Creating a Summer Photo Bucket List with Kids
Like I mentioned, I’m the most basic mom of them all. I didn’t want to add stress to my plate while trying to fulfill all their wildest wishes. Instead of getting crazy with all the things we’d love to do, but really don’t have time for, I decided we will capture all the smaller, joyful moments with my camera.
Challenge: think of all the basic summer-y things your kids do and jot them down. Every time you see one of those things from your list happen, pull your phone out (of your back pocket) and snap a photo. Be creative with your photos. Get up close, turn on Portrait Mode and capture all the details from the wind in their hair to the dirt under their fingernails.
At the end of the summer, create a “20XX Summer Memories” photobook to treasure for years to come. I love using Google Photos for this! I usually use my phone for quick snaps anyway which are automatically backed up to my Google Photo account. Head to the app, select your photos and a photobook will arrive on your doorstep.
DOWNLOAD our FREE Photo Bucket List Challenge or a blank template to create your own here.
Tips for capturing the best photos on your phone:
- clean the lens! So simple my friends. Take a quick sec to rub the lens on your cotton shirt or beach towel. This is going to make all the difference!
- tap the screen to focus on your subject. for sunset photos: tap the sunset to avoid a blown-out sky. works great when you’re creating a silhouette of the back of your kid’s head while capturing the sunset.
- get a waterproof case for wet scenes and underwater shots (I have this one and my phone stayed 100% dry) Underwater photo tip: set the timer to take the shot and then place under water. chances are you won’t be able to hit the shutter button while your phone is under water.
- get down on your kid’s level!
- tap and hold the shutter on the iPhone for fast moving kids. you can select the best photo to save from the burst.
- use natural light whenever possible and opt for shady spots versus full-sun exposure.
- use Portrait mode to capture up-close shots like the ice cream face and open-mouth hot dog photo.
- edit on-the-go. Download the free Lightroom app to make small tweaks and adjust light.