Young female model smiling outdoors during spring photo shoot in natural light

How to Take Stunning Spring & Summer Photos for Your Modelling Portfolio

The seasons are shifting and out of the darkness and bitter cold comes light and finallllllly warmer weather! If you’re a would-be model or an established talent, you’re probably getting ready to go out and utilise the sun’s rays for ultra-clear and sharp snaps for spring and summer photos for your portfolio. Let’s give you a few handy tips on how to not just take any pics but the best spring and summer pics outside!

Understand the natural light

Smiling man in a blazer holding a phone and standing with his bike in a sunlit park
Casual and confident—perfect spring style captured outdoors.

These two seasons are the best times to get the natural light into your modelling portfolio. Whether you’ve got a baby model or child model or you are one, here’s some photo tips for models to make the most of the following times:

Golden hour

Young child smelling pink flowers under soft natural sunlight
A moment of wonder and innocence—ideal for family or child modelling portfolios.

Set your timer for after sunrise and before sunset. The kaleidoscope of hues is amazing, as our source of Iight accentuates beautiful subtle colours that move seamlessly into one another making picture-perfect images with natural light photography.

Close up shots

It’s nice to take versatile snaps which delights us and our clients. We like seeing unique shots which unlock our models’ character and personality and give an added dimension to their portfolio game.

Smiling female model with curly red hair drinking coffee at an outdoor cafe in the sunshine
Natural charm and springtime vibes with every sip.

The rule of thirds

Composition like a pro

Have you heard of this photographic guideline which means placing your subject (i.e. you, your little one or your family) on the left or right-hand side, taking a third of the image where the rest remains an open space? No? Then here it is:

An image is divided into nine equal parts, split by two equally spaced horizontal and vertical lines, and viola, you have your grid to work with.

Leading lines

A great way to draw the viewer’s eye through the snap is to use roads, tracks, fences, trails, and even contrails with you as the subject.

Frame within a frame

Yup, exactly what it says – using a frame to frame your image. That could be arches, windows, trees or branches.

Seasonal vibes

Woman in bright yellow dress walking on the beach with birds flying around, captured in soft sunlight
A dreamy beach moment captured in motion—perfect for showcasing grace, colour, and summer energy.

Top portfolio tips: Add a dash of time-sensitive elements into your images such as morning fog, beaches and flowers in bloom to make it clear that you’re in spring and summer.

Bonus tip: remember to protect your equipment. Keep your lens clean with a microfiber cleaning cloth and a tripod cover.

Models Direct hopes you’ve enjoyed reading our spring/summer picture-taking tips. Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the seasons!