Autumn is my favorite time of the year for outdoor photo shoots. Here in Michigan the leaves change to gorgeous, warm colors as the days get colder. Most times it gets too cold to do real boudoir shoots close to Halloween, but this year we had some wonderful warm weather until late in the month so we took advantage of that and got some great spooky photos outside. I also decorated the studio inside for some fun, dark fantasy photo shoots as well. Read below for my top tips and suggestions to make the most out of your spooky Halloween photo shoots.
Favorite Halloween Sets
Set #1: The Forest in the Fall
My favorite spot for spooky Halloween photo shoots is in the forest when the leaves are changing color and there is a lot of yellow, orange, or red in the trees. The most important thing when planning your photo shoot is to know where you are going to take photos. Having a vision in mind for the concept and styling will help you decide on your location. For me, the warm hues are such a bold background and really offset all the blacks of the typical spooky wardrobe.
Set #2: Modern Witch Aesthetic
This set is all about the Modern Witch look. Tarot cards and crystals mixed with some fun props make for a great witchy set. I love this wonderful take on an ancient tradition especially one that is so empowering for females.
Set #3: Halloween Haunted House
Cobwebs, skulls, candles and dark colors! That’s what makes a Haunted House look authentic! I love the classic horror movie look of moody lighting and dusty cobwebs in the corners.
Top 3 Planning Tips for Your Spooky Halloween Photo Shoots
TIP #1: Decide on Your Theme/Aesthetic FIRST
Which set you’re going to choose definitely depends on your theme or aesthetic. Some sets are great for multiple styles but some are more suited to a specific theme. I usually find creating a mood board helps in the initial planning process. I’ll choose colors, props, lighting patterns, and other inspiration to help me map out the theme.
TIP #2: Locate/Source Your Props
Halloween or spooky shoots are all about the props! Sometimes the clothing is also a prop depending on your theme. But my best tip is to make sure you can get your props if you’re shopping out of season! Once Halloween is over it can be difficult to find many of the items you might want to use in your shoot. I often make a plan of upcoming shoot ideas and get a whole bunch of items once Halloween rolls around. The day after Halloween is also a great time to grab stuff if you plan ahead!
TIP #3: Plan for Special Makeup
Many Halloween photo shoots themes require special makeup. Either something much darker or more intense (or even more gory!) than what you would wear to a normal photo shoot. With this in mind, you should plan to practice the style at least once before your actual photo shoot day. Another option is to hire a professional makeup artist to help you create the look you’re seeking. Just make sure to specify what you’re looking for! Some makeup artists may not have experience in more theatrical styles to suite your theme.
Did you find these tips helpful? Are you going to use these sets as inspiration when planning your next spooky Halloween boudoir shoot? What other suggestions do you have for someone planning their spooky photo shoot?
Interested in doing your own spooky Halloween photo shoot? Looking for a reason to wear your awesome costume more than one night a year? Message me to learn more!