Spring Photo Ideas

Spring holds so many possibilities for interesting, vibrant photography. Whether you are searching for personal or professional inspiration, there are quite a few options here for props and backgrounds. Don't hesitate to mix and match the ideas that you find here for single compositions (i.e. raindrops in the grass). Consider using more than one idea during a photo session as well (i.e. a water reflection that includes leaves and/or flowers).

I have deliberately included lots of photo examples that do not feature people. This allows photographers to more easily envision these backgrounds and props with many different individuals.

There are numerous possibilities for photographing trees throughout the spring when the buds are coming through and the greens are at their peak. Seeking out a leading line among any number of trees is a classic shot that won't disappoint. Look for naturally occurring lines as well as man made lines in a variety of settings.

Get down in the grass and shoot at eye level to capture the world from a new perspective. You don't have to find an exotic setting to get a beautiful, striking shot. Look for varying types of grass and experiment with shooting different lengths of it. Don't be afraid to get in close for macro shots with stunning detail.

Flowers are extremely addictive to photograph. Once you start seeking opportunities to capture them, you won't be able to stop. Make a point to take field trips to shoot flowers in new locations throughout the spring. Keep your camera with you as much as possible as well. You never know when you'll find a great floral shot in an unexpected location.

There is a romantic, frozen in time element associated with capturing rain and raindrops in still photos. While early (and even late) spring rains can be cold, they are a refreshing change from snow. Don't be afraid to get out there and take advantage of these opportunities while you can. If you are interested in taking macro shots of raindrops but can't seem to line up your schedule with a good rainfall, take a spray bottle filled with water and simulate the aesthetic.

One technique that will help you stay motivated to photograph through any season is embracing the current elements. Even if your favorite season is summer, there is no reason to slack off with your skills during the rest of the year. Find elements of nature and other factors of shooting during the current time of year to keep it enjoyable for yourself. Color can play a role in this method. Focus on the spring shades that you enjoy the most and make it a goal to photograph them whenever possible during the season.

As you think about new signs of life to include in your compositions, consider plant life as well as animals. Do you live in an area with lots of farms? You may be able to get some great shots of new baby animals. Check with the local animal shelter for photography opportunities, too.

It's natural to be drawn to photographing flowers in a garden, which is a great place to start. Don't discount additional photography opportunities as well, though. A simple composition of a watering can or trowel can become an instant favorite from a photo shoot.

After being cooped up inside for way too much of the winter, it's a welcome change of pace to revisit old favorite spots around town as well as explore new ones. When you head out to wonder or even simply to run an errand, bring your camera along and take a few extra minutes to capture some shots.

Everything goes in this category from puddles to oceans. You never know when you'll get a great shot following a rainstorm or when a certain feature of a fountain will strike you just so. There are many options for capturing reflections, too. Don't be afraid to play up the distortion factor.

Leaves can be a great component of a flower composition, but they make a wonderful subject on their own, too. Photograph leaves on a regular basis during the spring to capture their different stages of growth. Look for different types, sizes, and colors. Experiment with capturing single leaves in great detail as well as larger groupings.