Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Summer is the season of sun, skin, and spontaneous selfies—and whether you’re living it up poolside, road-tripping with your besties, or tearing up a dance floor at 3 AM in nothing but glitter and vibes, capturing the moment is key. But getting that perfect selfie? It takes a bit more than just front-facing confidence. Here’s your guide to looking fabulous in every summer scenario, especially tailored for the LGBTQ+ community who knows that Pride is a year-round energy.
1. Pool Party Perfection
There’s nothing quite like the golden glow of a pool party selfie—but water, harsh sunlight, and skimpy swimwear can make or break the shot.
Tips:
- Golden Hour is Your Best Friend: Shoot either early in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower. Harsh noon lighting creates shadows and squinting. Soft sunlight equals smoother skin and fewer edits later.
- Get Wet (Strategically): A little water on your skin can give that fresh, dewy glow. Too much and you risk looking like a wet seal in distress. Pat yourself dry and go for damp, not drenched.
- Angles Matter: Hold your phone slightly above your eye line for that flattering “I just woke up flawless” angle. If you’re shirtless, turn your torso slightly for definition and avoid a flat, straight-on look.
- Swimwear Confidence: Rock what makes you feel hot. Whether that’s a Speedo, trunks, or something in between, the best look is one you feel yourself in. Confidence is always the filter you can’t fake.
2. Road Trip & Travel Vibes
Travel selfies are all about storytelling—showing where you are, who you’re with, and how gay your getaway is.
Tips:
- Scenery, But Make It About You: Use that gorgeous beach, mountain, or Pride flag mural as a backdrop, but make sure you’re still the focus. Use portrait mode or tap to focus on your face.
- Car Shots Can Be Iconic: Just make sure you’re not the one driving. Natural light through windows can be magical. Throw on some shades, tousle your hair, and let the queer main character energy shine.
- Candid Isn’t Always Candid: Don’t be afraid to pose like you’re not posing. Laughing while looking away? Classic. Looking into the distance with a drink in hand? A whole mood.
- Group Shots: Space is your friend. Avoid shoulder stacking—go for layers, levels, and poses. Someone should always be doing something dramatic.
3. Late-Night Party Glam (or Shirtless Chaos)
Whether you’re dancing at a warehouse rave, voguing at a rooftop bar, or lip-syncing for your life at an underground queer party, nightlife selfies capture the energy—and your most chaotic hotness.
Tips:
- Lighting Is Crucial: Seek out LED lighting, neon signs, or even someone else’s phone flashlight. No shame in asking for help. Red and blue lighting can wash out your features—go for white or warm lighting when possible.
- Shirtless but Not Shapeless: If you’re shirtless, flex just a bit—breathe out slowly to tighten your core and elongate your neck to avoid the dreaded “selfie double chin.”
- Use the Flash, Own the Flash: Sometimes low light demands flash. If so, tilt your head slightly to avoid a full frontal beam that flattens features. Add a little gloss, highlight, or shimmer for that flash pop.
- Capture the Chaos: Blur, sweat, glitter—if it tells the story of your night, embrace it. The messier the night, the hotter the memory.
Bonus Tips Across the Board:
- Edit Lightly: Adjust brightness, contrast, and maybe use a softening filter—but let your authentic fabulousness shine. Overediting is out.
- Consent Is Key: Group selfie? Always double-check before posting. That’s especially true if someone’s in a harness or having a moment.
- Hashtag Like a Pro: Own the grid with tags like #SummerOfPride, #GayAndGlowing, or #QueerBeachBabes to get seen and celebrate the season.