How to Take Photos with a Hat

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Updated: 4/19/2024 | How to Take Photos with a Hat

Seattle Great Wheel

As a photographer and hat lover, I am always looking for an opportunity to feature my headwear.

Below are some tips on how to incorporate your hats into your photo shoots.

#1 Scenic Hat Toss

Find a picturesque backdrop, like a beach or a mountain vista. Toss your hat gently into the air while looking away, capturing the moment when it’s in mid-flight.

#2 Hat and Horizon

Trendhim Beanie

Position yourself against a stunning horizon. Tilt your hat slightly and look out into the distance for a classic traveler’s shot.

Gigi pip maude hat ivory in Berat Albania

Maude Pencil Brim hat by Gigi Pip

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Wearing my American Hat Makers Maldives hat in the Skagit Valley Tulip fields.

#3 Hat as a Frame

Use your hat to frame your face. You can hold it with one hand while looking through the opening created by the brim, focusing on a scenic view or into the camera lens. You can also do this without holding the hat.

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Kettle Brim Sydney Hat by Wallaroo Hats

#4 Look Back Over-the-Shoulder Hat Shot

Turn your back to the camera and glance over your shoulder while wearing your hat. Look directly at the camera or away in the to distance to create a mysterious shot.

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A post shared by Alex – Travel Food Fashion Photography🌻🌎 (@schimiggy)

#5 Hand to Hat

Taking one or two hands to your hat can give the illusion of you trying to hold a hat on your head. It also gives you length in photos. Try it with your right, left, or both hands and find the perfect angle for you.

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A post shared by Alex – Travel Food Fashion Photography🌻🌎 (@schimiggy)

#6 Hat in Hand

Hold your hat in one hand at your side or to your chest. This can showcase both your outfit and the scenery and can be especially effective in urban settings or in settings that are not directly in sunshine.

#7 Hat and Sunset

Capture a silhouette shot during sunset. Stand with your hat in hand or on your head against the colorful evening sky.

sunset watching at the el mirador in San Miguel de Allende Wallaroo Bzees lululemon

Sunset at the El Mirador in San Miguel de Allende

#8 Hat and Reflection

Find a reflective surface, like a still lake or a mirrored building. Place your hat on the ground or hold it low to capture its reflection.

#9 Candid Hat Moments

Capture candid moments while adjusting your hat or shielding your eyes from the sun. These shots can feel more authentic and spontaneous.

#10 Hat in Motion

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Monserrate Hill in Colombia

Walk, run, or twirl with your hat on while someone takes a shot from the side. This adds movement to your photos.

#11 Tilt Your Hat Down

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Julian Fedora by San Diego Hat Company

Tilt your head down so that you get a good shot of the top of your hat. This can make your photos look mysterious and is a great way to feature your accessories.