Summer Vacation Ideas

Welcome to our ultimate guide to the best summer vacation! ☀️ As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing on white-sand beaches, exploring vibrant cities or embarking on outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. ✈️

We easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photoshoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip forever. 📸 So, sit back and grab a refreshing drink, and let’s dive into the ultimate summer vacation experience! 

TLDR

• Summer Vacation Destinations
• Summer Outfit Ideas
• The Best Summer Photo Tips
• Summer Photoshoot Pose Ideas
• Summer Vacation Activity Ideas
• FAQ

Photo: Kris in Santorini for Flytographer. Angela and family capture memories in Santorini with a birthday photoshoot in Imerovilgi Village.

Summer Vacation Destinations

1. New York City 🏙️
   New York City has some of the most fun summer family vacation getaway ideas. Summer brings longer days, so you can spend more time biking, strolling or picnicking in the city’s scenic parks. 🧺 There’s nothing quite so admiring as America’s most famous skyline as seen from Brooklyn Bridge Park with an ice cream in hand. 🍦
   Honourable mentions for the best American summer vacation spots include Los Angeles, California; Miami, Florida; Denver, Colorado; and the Grand Canyon.
2. Paris, France 🇫🇷
   The romance and beauty of Paris will always make it one of the best summer vacation spots. ☀️ Paris becomes particularly festive during the summer months, making it one of the best summer family vacation ideas in Europe.
   This coming summer will be unique in Paris. From July 26 to August 11, the city will host the 2024 Summer Olympics, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every family. Keep in mind that the city will be extra busy, so you’ll want to do some careful planning beforehand. 🏅
   Honourable mentions for summer vacation spots in Europe include Rome, Italy; Madrid, Spain; London, England; and Dubrovnik, Croatia.
3. San Juan, Puerto Rico 🏝️
   The perfect summer scenario for a family vacation in the Caribbean? 🏖️ Picture stunning, white-sand beaches and the Puerto Rican personality in San Juan. This colourful destination is blessed with natural beauty and a lively culture. No matter where you explore, you’ll have your slice of paradise. 🌈
   Honourable mentions for Caribbean summer vacation spots include Saint Martin, Aruba, Curaçao and Punta Cana. Can’t pick just one Caribbean spot? Then board a cruise and hop around—that’s the ultimate family-friendly way to explore the Caribbean. 🛳️

Photo: Flytographer in Paris. Chelsea and family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot at Bir-Hakeim Bridge & the Eiffel Tower.

Photo: Sehee in New York City for Flytographer. Amanda and family capture memories in New York City with a family photoshoot in Central Park.

Summer Outfit Ideas

Booking your next summer vacation photoshoot destination may seem like the easy part compared to choosing outfits for family pictures, which can feel confusing and overwhelming. 📸 We’re here to help you choose the best summer travel outfits, making this part of the process as easy, painless and beautiful as possible. 👗

Photo: Ana in Tulum for Flytographer. Vincent and partner capture memories in Tulum with a couples photoshoot at Playa Santa Fe.

1. Fabrics 👚
   Not only does less mean more in the summertime, but avoiding fabrics that wrinkle easily or show sweat stains is critical. Choose flowy dresses and attire that breathe for your trip (natural fabrics such as linen and cotton are great). Often, lighter colours and patterns hide sweat. 😅 Avoid grey and heathered solids. We highly recommend giving your clothes a dry run (pun intended!) before your shoot.
2. Colour Palette 🎨
   Colour schemes can be fun to play with. Summer colours are some of the happiest and liveliest colours to wear for your vacation photos! Choosing the right colour is easy when the goal is to be cheery and bright. ☀️ When choosing a main colour to lean into, go for brighter. Rich earth tones? Beautiful! Bold colours? Good thinking! Emphatic, complementary colours are a great choice. Check out more tips for the best colours for family vacation pictures outside! 🌳
3. Shoes 👟
   Shoes are a critical part of your outfit because they can have you feeling amazing or regretting the whole thing. Don’t plan on bringing your “cute shoes” 👡 for your photoshoot. Often, Flytographer shoots have you wandering and exploring with your photographer (which is so much fun!). But no matter how cute the shoes are, they’re typically not so hot after walking to your meeting location and chasing after little ones! 🤪 Reminder: Being comfortable will feel so much better. Consider your terrain (cobblestones, grass, chip trails or sand), and put your best foot forward! 🥿

Head to our style guide for more tips on the best summer vacation outfit!

Photo: Kari in New York City for Flytographer. Susan and friends capture memories in New York City with a friends photoshoot in Central Park.

Photo: Jessie in the Grand Canyon for Flytographer. Enrique and partner capture memories in the Grand Canyon with a proposal photoshoot at Shoshone Point.

The Best Summer Photo Tips

Summertime is often peak travel season for many of us—especially those with kids and school schedules (#summervacation)! 🛫 Naturally, travel peaks during the summertime because the weather is ideal in many locations! ☀️ Here are some helpful summer photo tips to know and navigate to make your summer shoot a success.

Photo: Livushé in Cusco for Flytographer. Ashleah captures memories in Cusco with a solo adventure photoshoot at the Historical Centre.

1. Avoid the middle of the day 🌞
   Opt for early morning or evening—the golden hour! 🌅 Mornings are great, especially if you’re taking photos in crowded or touristy areas such as national parks or beautiful beaches. Evening light is similarly flattering, but typically, there are more crowds than just after sunrise. We love blue skies, but for better photos, mornings and evenings show off a softer light and more beautiful colouring for summertime pics! ⌚️
2. Forget how to pose 👯‍♂️
   Photos when you enjoy the moment and don’t pose will start to feel effortless. One of our favourite summertime photo tips is to get creative and have fun—action shots don’t have to mean running together. It can be as simple as gestures, chit-chat and games such as I Spy! 👁 Take advantage of sitting and relaxing, especially if your body is craving rest from that summer vacation heat. Your Flytographer will help you pose naturally in front of the camera, so this is the perfect time to let loose and lean into their expertise!
3. Bring less 🎒
   During the summer, finding a safe place to leave your bags can prove challenging! When possible, leave extra bags and clothing behind at your hotel or campsite. 🎒 👜 🛍 Our photographers are going to be carrying their cameras, bags and other gear, so asking them to carry your bags isn’t possible. In many areas, having bags stolen happens more often than you might imagine, so avoid setting them down during your shoot. The good news is that summertime means fewer layers and no coats to deal with, so you’re already coming into this ahead of the game! 🫡

Photo: Flytographer in Tofino. Tori and family capture memories in Tofino with a family photoshoot.

Photo: Aimee in Palma de Mallorca for Flytographer. Sydney captures memories in Palma de Mallorca with a headshot photoshoot at Beachfront and Old Town.

Summer Photoshoot Pose Ideas

The great thing about summer vacation photos is more heat means more natural movement. 🤸‍♀️ Candid, casual and interactive photos are so special. Here are some ideas to help you feel good and look good in your summertime photos. 📸

Photo: Julia in Madrid for Flytographer. Henna and partner capture memories in Madrid with a couples photoshoot at La Latina.

1. Beach vacation poses 🏝️
   One of our favourite ways to capture beautiful beach poses is also one of the easiest ways: Follow the shoreline! 🌊 This pose idea is easy and fun, particularly if you’re feeling awkward because all you have to do is walk! Another great way to get moving is to dance in the sand. 💃 Some of the best picture ideas inspire laughter, smiles and silly moods, and dancing is almost always a surefire way to capture authentic, beautiful photos. ❤️
2. Summertime poses with kids 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
   “Swing the Youngest” is one of our classic posing ideas and a real kid-pleaser. This “pose” is also super flexible and easily adapted, whether you’re on a sand beach, grassy hiking trail or hard ground. 🪨 Holding hands and jumping is also a great pose that gets the laughter flowing, and because laughter is what we’re going for, hang on and jump away.
3. Couple summer vacation pose ideas 👭
   The most successful, genuine and easy-to-remember couple pose is the snuggle-up. Being on a photoshoot with a partner means whenever you feel uncomfortable, there’s always someone who has your back to laugh with. 🫶 Another great option for the heat is finding a place to sit back and relax. Pausing to recentre on a ledge or rock makes for beautiful moments. 🌅

Photo: Madison in Jackson Hole for Flytographer. Shiva and family capture memories in Jackson Hole with a birthday photoshoot at Outer Park Road.

Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Emily and partner capture memories in Maui with a proposal photoshoot at Kapalua Ironwoods.

Summer Vacation Activity Ideas

We believe the best summer vacations come from making memories, no matter where you are, and we want to share some of our top creative summer summer vacation activity ideas. ⛵️🚲🚙

Photo: Trieu in Hoi An for Flytographer. Danica and family capture memories in Hoi An with a family photoshoot at Hoi An Old Town.

1. Go on a boat ride 🛶
   Creative summer vacation activities are plentiful when a boat is the theme. Sailboat on the Pacific? ⛵️ Pontoon boat on the Atlantic? 🚤 Kayaking near a white-sand beach? Adventure on a boat, whether it’s an excursion to snorkel or a gondola to sightsee, these memories will last forever! 🗺️
2. Ride a bicycle 🚲
   There’s something so nostalgic and summery about bike riding, don’t you think? Why not grab a bike and explore the city? 🚲 Whether it’s vintage, tandem or just the bike you have in your garage, incorporate some biking fun into your summer vacation! 🌳
3. Plan a road trip 🚙
   From the East Coast to the West Coast and everything in between, a road trip is a great option for a summer vacation! Whether you prefer city-hopping, finding a state park or reconnecting with nature, there’s an epic road trip route for everyone. 🛣️ Choose a region with points of interest that strike your fancy. Some of our favourite road trip stops throughout America include Napa Valley, California; Wilmington, North Carolina; Big Sky, Montana; and Yellowstone National Park. 🏜️

Photo: Peter in Jackson Hole for Flytographer. Polly and partner capture memories in Jackson Hole with a couples photoshoot.

Photo: Joanna in Amsterdam for Flytographer. Miranda and partner capture memories in Amsterdam with a couples photoshoot at The Jordaan.

FAQ

How long is summer vacation?

In the US, the length of summer vacation varies depending on the school district. Typically, summer break starts in late May or early June and lasts until late August or early September, lasting about two to three months. Summer break in Europe varies from country to country and even within regions of countries; however, it typically lasts around two to three months, similar to the US. In Canada, the length of summer break varies by province and territory, but it generally follows a similar pattern to the US and Europe.

Where is the best place to vacation in July?

The best place to have a summer vacation in July depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you seek. Here are a few suggestions across different categories: 

• Caribbean Islands: Many Caribbean destinations have beautiful beaches and warm waters in July. 
• Paris, France: While it can be crowded, July offers long days and warm weather for exploring iconic landmarks. 
• Canadian Rockies: July is a great time to visit Banff and Jasper National Parks for hiking, wildlife viewing and stunning scenery in Canada.

Where is the best place to visit during the summer on a tight budget?

When planning a budget-friendly trip, consider factors such as transportation, accommodations, food and activities. Research budget-friendly accommodations and look for affordable dining options. Some ideas for low-budget travel include campsites at national or state parks and Airbnb’s in Mexico. Alternatively, explore destinations closer to home to save on transportation costs.

What colours are best for family photos in summer?

For summer vacation family photos, opt for light, airy colours such as pastels or brighter colours such as blue, yellow, green or pink. These colours complement the brightness of summer and create a timeless look for your family photos.

Is sunrise or sunset better for family photos?

Both sunrise and sunset can offer stunning lighting for family photos, but it ultimately depends on your preference and schedule. Sunrise provides soft, golden light and fewer crowds, while sunset offers warm and dramatic hues. Choose a time recommended by your photographer that works best for your family’s schedule.

Photo: Barbara and Claudio in the Amalfi Coast for Flytographer. Alex and partner capture memories on the Amalfi Coast with a couples photoshoot in Positano Village.

Capturing the Best Summer Vacation

Summertime is a perfect season to take photos, and here at Flytographer, we’re ready and excited to help capture you and your loved ones at all the best summer vacation spots. 🌞 We can’t wait to share your summertime excitement and return some great, eye-catching photos you’re sure to remember for years to come. We can’t wait to work with you on your next summer vacation! 📸