It was starting to seem like it would never happen but, yes, it is officially the first week of (actual) summer. That doesn’t mean you get to take a holiday from photography though – that is not allowed. Hey, don’t blame me, I don’t make the rules. 

Seriously though, this is one of the most enjoyable times to get that camera out and keep working on your skills (not to mention beefing up that portfolio). 

The warmer season means no completely awful weather out there so, your camera will be avoiding any environmental assaults like extreme cold, snow, hail and (mostly) all the other equipment killers. Now you can keep your camera out of the bag more often than inside where it is pretty difficult to take any actual photos (I’ve heard that they seem to come out all under exposed for some reason). The trick to this is easy – take it out of that fancy bag that you probably paid way too much money for and leave your rig near the front door.

Going on a hike? Take your camera.

Walking the dog around the block? Take your camera.

Day at the beach? Take your camera (actually maybe take the bag for that trip because sand and lenses do not good friends make!).

There are so many opportunities to shoot when the sun is shining on your face, the air is warm and relaxing and your brain is clear from all the usual things that occupy our minds. Day-to-day life combined with a full week of work can murder creativity. When we are off the clock, our thoughts are about fulfilling the primal human imperative – to create.

Finally, don’t worry about the processing, you’ll have lots of time edit all your new cool photos when you’re freezing again!

Photo shot at Bronte Harbour in Oakville, Ontario.