by hyena reality / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Tip 1: Avoid harsh sunlight

Photographing people during the middle of the day can be challenging. Bright sunlight shining overhead can create unflattering shadows on faces and cause people to squint and look uncomfortable. To avoid this, move your subject into the shade or use your camera’s fill flash to lighten dark areas and shadows.

If you are shooting a little before or after noon, make sure to point your camera away from the sun to minimize washed-out colors and a bluish haze.

Usually, the best times for shooting are early morning or late afternoon when the light is warmer and softer.

Tip 2: Maximize use of colors

Many people associate summer with bright, primary colors, so try to include strong, vivid hues in your photos. Colorful flowers, summer dresses, beach umbrellas, or sailboats are sure to make your pictures pop!

Your choice of color also helps determine the mood and message of your image. Use warm colors such as red, yellow, or orange to enhance the feeling of heat. Blue and green are cool colors that help create a refreshing feeling.

Tip 3: Take some candid shots

Every once in a while, try taking shots of family and friends without calling out, “Say cheese!” People tend to become tense and self-conscious when they know their picture is being taken. If possible, take one photo at “Smile!” and then shoot a few more right after. When people think you’re done shooting, they will relax a bit and will look more natural.

Photo from Kevin Dooley via flickr. CC BY 2.0

Tip 4: Tell a story with your photos

Your photos become more interesting and engaging if they capture the spirit of summer and how it makes you feel. More than just a record of events, your photos can be an expression of your personal feelings.

Snap shots of subjects that represent summer for you, be it blue skies, children playing, sand castles, or a family barbecue.

Does summer mean watching a beautiful sunset on the beach, eating ice cream, or fishing in the lake? Then try to find interesting angles and features that tell the story of what is going on.

On your next gathering or vacation, try out a few of these suggestions and see how shooting interesting and compelling summer photos is a snap.

1.)  Blizzard Beach in Florida

Photo by nbelloni via Flickr.com. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

Located at the World Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Blizzard Beach is the second most visited park in the world. Featuring a “melting ski resort” theme, this waterpark features the Summit Plummet, a 120-foot slide where visitors can glide at 60 miles per hour. The park also features Teamboat Springs, the world’s longest family raft ride; the Downhill Double Dipper, a side-by-side water racetrack; and the Toboggan Racer, a 250-foot water slide.

2.)  Raging Waters in Sacramento

Photo by gigi4791 via Flickr.com. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Known formerly as Six Flags WaterWorld, Raging Waters is perhaps the most popular waterpark in the world. This amazing place features the Shark Attack Slide Complex, a series of interlocking tube slides that gives kids the water rides of their life. There is also the Dragon’s Den, a raft ride where visitors can slide down towards a gigantic splash pool; the Cliffhanger, which is two 60-foot water slides; Breaker Beach, a wave pool that’s a favorite of families; and Holks Lagoon, a water playground designed for toddlers and little children.

3.)  Splashin Safari in Indiana

Photo by Theme Park Mom via Flickr.com. CC by 2.0.

Previously known as Santa Claus Land, Splashin Safari is a multi-awarded destination for families who want to visit a water carnival as well as an amusement park. The park boasts of two marvelous water coasters: the Wildebeest, which spans 1,710 feet, and the Mammoth, a 1,763-foot ride for thrill-seekers. They also have the ZOOMbabwe, the world’s largest enclosed water slide; the Jungle Jets Wave Pool; and beginning in 2013, the Hyena Falls, an assembly of four interconnected water tubes which lead to a grand, beautiful pool. Spectacular and amazing, this is a must-visit place for everyone.

4.)  Splashtown Waterpark in Texas

Photo by Intamin10 via Flickr.com. CC BY-NC 2.0.

Located in Houston, Texas, Splashtown Waterpark is a 53-acre water paradise that’s open from May to September. Formerly known as Hanna-Barbera Land, this amusement facility features the Blue Lagoon, a complex activity pool with swings, geysers, waterfalls, and a diving rock, giving kids the opportunity to have a water adventure. The park also has the Thunder Run, an exhilarating water tube; the Stingray Racer, a six-lane water slide; and the Texas Freefall, a very tall slide that leads to their main pool.

5.)  Water World in Colorado

Photo by WarzauWynn via Flickr.com.  CC BY-ND 2.0.

Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Water World is 67 acres of land dedicated to pure fun under the sun. This water wonderland is famous for its Screamin’ Mimi, an attraction where visitors can ride a board down a track that looks like a rollercoaster. They also have the Space Bowl, a circular slide that leads to a sparkling body of water, and the amazing Voyage to the Center of the Earth, wherein families can ride rafts inside a manmade cavern that features the wonders of the pre-historic era. This cave also has steep downward spirals, drop-offs, and terrifying animatronic dinosaurs, which the kids will surely love.

Take the whole family with you in an aquatic escapade they will never forget by visiting one of these waterparks this summer.

And just when you thought summer couldn’t get any more fun, Backyard Ocean gives you and dad another reason to celebrate. We’re giving out $50 gift certificates through our Big Splash for Dad Sweepstakes. With a daily prize like that, you could grab any one of these five great gift items for him:

8′ x 30″ Float to Fill™ Ring Pool

Had enough of the summer heat? Take a cool and refreshing dip in our awesome Float to Fill™ Ring Pool. What makes this ring pool so cool is that it’s easy to set up. Just fill it with air and add water, and you’ll be having loads of pool fun in no time.

Get this amazing pool for dad and the kids so they can have a blast this summer. And we’ll even throw in two free beach balls to get the fun started!
 

Round Transparent Family Pool

It’s always nice to kick back and relax after a hard day’s work. Let dad have his well-deserved R&R this Fathers’ Day weekend in our Round Transparent Family Pool. 

Treat him like a king by making him a batch of delicious nachos or BLT sandwiches and his favorite cooler. Nowhere to put the drinks? Dad will love the two cup holders in this pool.
 
 

Bahama Breeze Lounge Chair

Sitting in an office chair all day is no fun. Let dad enjoy the summer breeze as he relaxes in our Bahama Breeze Lounge Chair. He can sip his favorite drink while in the water, or even take a nap while soaking up the sun.

Forgetting all the stress of work, even for a few minutes, will do wonders for dad. All he needs is this comfy floating lounge chair, and all his worries will float away.
 
 

Flofa Pool Float

Want to throw the ultimate summer party for dad? Our one-of-a-kind Four Seat Flofa brings comfort while you enjoy splashing in the pool.

This unique inflatable pool float can seat four grownups in a circle, and includes built-in cup holders for when dad’s buddies decide to enjoy their refreshments while in the water. If they get bored, they can just savor a great conversation in this amazing pool float.
 
 

Mini Basketballs

How about a game of basketball with dad? Have him show off his ball moves with our mini basketball that comes in 5″ or 7″ diameters.

You and dad can wear your favorite NBA jerseys in the spirit of fun and competition as you get into this all-time favorite sports activity.
 
 
 
 
These are just five reasons for you to join Backyard Ocean’s Big Splash for Dad Sweepstakes. Like us now on Facebook for a chance to win our $50 gift certificates daily. Contest ends on June 16, 11:59 PM PST so hurry!

Summer has always been the best time to go on vacation. And for dads out there who have worked so hard since the start of the year, days worth of rest and relaxation is in order especially around Father’s Day.

While going on a Caribbean cruise or a European tour is definitely recharging, dads don’t really have to spend a fortune to have a rejuvenating retreat. This season, join Backyard Ocean as we take a look at some practical ways to have a slammin’ summer right at home. Pack your bags. We’re going to Stay-cation Island!

Tip #1: Throw a luau party

If you can’t go to Hawaii, then let the island come to you. Break out those grass skirts and tiki torches, and throw an awesome luau party with the kids in your own backyard. Turn up the island music, light up a small bonfire, and serve pineapple and ham skewers and non-alcoholic tropical coolers with little bright umbrellas.

Dad can even wear his favorite Hawaiian shirt and go around playing a ukelele for more laughs!

Tip #2: Turn your home into a spa

Dad may typically shy away from luxury day spas, but that shouldn’t stop you from giving him the pampering he deserves. Set aside an area at home where he can unwind. With a home sauna, dad can enjoy the benefits a day at the spa brings: stress relief, detoxification, skin hydration, and relaxation.

Tip #3: Build your own backyard water park

Forget the long drive and the long lines when you hit your favorite water park this summer. The perfect vacation for dad is one that doesn’t involve squeezing through a crowded wave pool, or plummeting at 90 miles per hour inside a dark tunnel slide. Instead, set up your own aqua playground in your backyard, complete with a volleyball net or an inflatable basketball ring.

For a quieter time with the family, let dad kick back and just float in our pool hammock. No more pesky tunnel slides. Only splashes of fun await. A stay-cation with dad this Fathers’ Day may be more cost-effective, but it sure doesn’t cut back on all the fun.

Still thinking of what to give dad this Fathers’ Day? Get him an awesome gift by checking out Backyard Ocean’s Big Splash for Dad Sweepstakes on Facebook. Hurry! Contest ends on June 16, 11:59 PM PST. So Like us now!

We’re giving away $50 BYO Gift Cards EVERY DAY until Father’s Day!

Photo from Luke Jones via flickr. CC BY 2.0

A Feast Fit for a King

Gather your siblings and organize dinner at a nice restaurant. It may seem like a simple thing, but having dinner out with the whole family on Fathers’ Day means a lot for dear ol’ Dad.

During dinner, offer a heartfelt toast to your dad, preferably one that you’ve prepared in advance.

If you want a bigger celebration, set up a family picnic or barbeque in the backyard. Nothing is more special for Dad as having the entire family together, eating and having fun.

Let him relax with a refreshing drink while you cook up some of his favorite dishes. Just don’t be surprised if he decides to take over the grill and show off his manly barbequing skills.

by netpat138241 / FreeDigitalPhotos

Quality Family Time

Even if it’s just for one day, Dad will love it when you show some interest in his hobbies or pastimes.

Take Dad to watch his favorite game, whether it’s watching the pros or just the neighborhood team. If your dad is a golfer, consider joining him for a round on the links or even the mini-golf course.

If he’s a movie buff, then host a DVD movie marathon at home, or take the whole family out to see the latest summer blockbuster.

Does he like to build things or tinker with the car? Then consider helping out or asking him for a quick lesson. Fathers get a real kick out of the whole mentor and apprentice thing.

by Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Give a Thoughtful Gift

Although Dad will love any gift that you give him, make an effort to present him with a well-thought-out gift.

Buy him something that he really wants or would never buy for himself. That power tool he’s always been eyeing? Have the whole family chip in and make it happen!

After all the hours of hard work he puts in every day, why not give Dad a gift to help him relax? An inexpensive backrest massager will do wonders for Dad’s stressed-out nerves.

If you have an outdoor pool, a floating lounge chair will make him jump for joy and dive in for a well-deserved break.

It doesn’t take much to make a father happy. However you spend Fathers’ Day, a simple reassurance to your Dad that you love him and are proud of him for being there for you is already a big thing.