Living in the west, I am surrounded by a beautiful natural backdrop for rustic photos. All we have to do is step outside and the mountains surround us. But even if you don’t live in an area with towering mountains, it’s easy to create a rustic scene using a few props. I prefer fall and winter for the shoots, but any time of year will do.
Here are a few places to look for when thinking of rustic photos.
Barns (think hay), fences, railroad tracks, windy country roads, old trucks, vintage buildings, train stations, farms (horses), tractors, picnic tables, and cabins; and if you live in a metro area, look for old brick buildings and warehouses with big wood beams
Add an element of wood, rusty metals, leaves, pumpkins, buckets, crates, and or fishing poles.
Musical instruments like a fiddle, banjo, guitar or old wood piano add a nice touch.
Use clothes like overalls and ruffled country dresses for little boys and girls.
I always love a table or couch stuck in the middle of a field of grass.
Pets can add a touching element to rustic photos.
Winter provides an easy opportunity if you live in an area with snow.
Pines provide a beautiful look when covered with white fluffy powder.
Dress warm and in bold colors. The white of the snow will tend to make everything else look faded. Reds, blacks, and navy work well. Warm sweaters, lined denim jackets, boots, scarves, and gloves will all round out the look.
Accessories can be such things as toboggans, skis, snowshoes, wood crates, candles, lanterns, plaid blankets, cups of hot cocoa, a thermos, rustic wrapped presents, pinecones, etc. Just think of things you would use during the winter or would need to stay warm.
Most important is to have fun and be yourself. Say cheese!
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