Surviving the August Heat (With Magic Intact): Outdoor Fantasy Photo Shoot Tips
What do you get when you mix August sunshine, saltwater breezes, and a mermaid tail in Wyoming? Honestly - one of my favorite shoot memories to date.
Let me set the scene. Last August, I packed my camera bag, tiaras, and cooling fans (yes, plural lol) and headed out west. I was expecting mountain chill and bundled clients... but nope. We had warm water, cool air, and one brave mermaid who dove straight into the sparkling shallows like the fantasy queen she was. For my Georgia southern blood, that August air was basically a spa retreat. Total win.
But back in our regular stomping grounds (hello Savannah, Jekyll, Tybee), August sessions require a bit more strategy. The magic is still there - I promise. But there’s an art to keeping your mood radiant, your glam intact, and those fantasy vibes flowing.
If you’ve been dreaming of a fantasy or empowering portrait session but are nervous about melting makeup or bug ambushes, read on. I’ve got tricks up my (fairy-sleeved) robe.
August Fantasy Sessions: Yes, You Can
I get it - August in the South brings the heat. And humidity. And sometimes mosquitoes who clearly don’t understand boundaries.
But this isn’t a reason to delay your adventure... it’s a reason to plan it well.
Because here’s the truth: warm-weather sessions in late summer can be completely magical. Golden hour glows hit different this time of year, especially by the water. Whether you’re channeling a delicate fae in chiffon or kicking up surf as a mermaid, that sunlight, that sea haze, that little glisten of sweat (okay, let’s call it fae dew) can actually enhance the magic.
I tailor every outdoor shoot around comfort and creativity - yes, we chase beautiful light, but not at the cost of your experience. My job is to create not just stunning portraits but a moment you'll treasure.
Let’s break down exactly how we do that...
What to Expect (and Pack) for an August Outdoor Shoot
1. Choose the Right Time (Sunset or Bust)
If we’re planning your session around Savannah, Tybee, Jekyll, or any of my favorite local fairytale spots, I’ll always suggest we shoot later in the day. Here's why:
Sunset light is soft, golden, and extra flattering
Coastal breezes pick up in the evenings, keeping us cooler
Bugs (those rude little paparazzi) don’t show up as quickly once the sun starts dipping
Morning sessions are an option too, for early birds, but let’s be real - most fairies like their beauty sleep.
2. Hydration is Non-Negotiable
I bring water for me and you. Sometimes even chilled fruit or a salty little snack, depending on the shoot’s length. We are not about that dehydration life.
Want to bring your own water bottle? Even better. Bonus points if it has glitter inside.
3. Wardrobe Makes (or Melts) the Mood
August is the perfect time to go:
Mermaid: We’ll be in or near water, so you’ll stay refreshed
Lightweight Fairy: Think gauzy fabrics that flutter instead of cling
Barefoot Dreamer: Ditching shoes can be grounding and practical. Wet sand + leather boots = oof
I have robes, wraps, and fantasy accessories that work well in the heat. We’ll chat beforehand to co-create a comfortable (and wildly photogenic) look that matches your vision.
4. Cooling Gadgets Are Your Sidekick
My must-have tools include:
Handheld fan (the good kind)
Bug spray that doesn’t smell like a field test gone wrong
Mini towels for blotting
Ice packs or cool cloths to tuck into costume changes
Car breaks (hello, A/C sanctuary)
We pace ourselves. There’s no speedrun here. This is your story - and I want you to feel powerful, not pressured.
5. Mindset Is Half the Magic
Honestly? This might be the most important thing.
Every fantasy shoot is part celebration, part transformation. Yes, it might be warm. Yes, some glitter might stick stubbornly. No, your joy and ability to shine like the hero(ine) you are is not dependent on a “perfect” forecast.
Come into your session ready for play, adventure, and meaningful silliness. That’s when real magic shows up. And I’ll be right there guiding you through every pose and pause - adjusting, cheering, tweaking lighting, making sure you see how beautiful you are.
Remember: You Deserve to Feel Radiant (Even in August)
I’ve watched clients go from self-conscious to shimmering within one sunset hour. I’ve seen people laugh in their full fae fits while sipping water from a unicorn bottle between shots (lol yes, that happened). I’ve witnessed someone cry real, joyful tears when they saw their portrait and said, “That’s me? She looks magical.”
So don’t let the calendar stop you from setting up your dream photo shoot.
Summer’s heat? We adapt.
Your confidence? We build it.
The right time to be seen, empowered, and honored just as you are? That time is now.
Ready to Make Magic With Me?
If you’re dreaming of a mermaid photo shoot experience, fantasy cosplay portrait session, or anything imaginative under the August sun, let’s talk.
At Fins and Fairies, I create custom fantasy portrait adventures tailored to your story - whether we’re chasing golden light on Jekyll or posing in the surf on Tybee. I’ll bring the fans, the water, and the fairy flair... you bring your beautiful, brave self.
Explore session options here or reach out for a no-pressure chat.
See you at sunset, kindred spirit.
🌊🧚♀️ Let’s make it magical.
