“Everybody say cheeeese.”

Gone are the days when we would simply point and shoot for a picture. As the world becomes more digital, so does our expertise with imagery. Our smartphones have turned us into professional photographers. The world is literally our runway and anywhere at any time can turn into an instant photoshoot. Of course, we still value savoring the moments but taking pictures consumes many outings.

To get the perfect shot takes more than snapping a few and going. There are intricate details we should consider. For instance, the lighting needs to be on point, tripods and ring lights should be in position, and studying angles and mastering the art of editing is essential. Not to mention the countless number of photos needed to get the one Instagram-worthy shot.

But what’s equally as important as any of these factors? Well, our background. We can’t serve model energy without a bomb background to match the aesthetic. Grab your camera or charge your smartphone because after you see these Instagrammable spots, you’re going to want to add your next photoshoot to the weekend to-do list.

It’s summertime, and you want your photos to reflect that. Obviously, there’s nothing wrong with a good beach picture, but if you’d like to change up your ambiance and accentuate the lighter side of summer, then you should visit the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The Cummer Gardens is a combination of three different gardens located right off the St. Johns River. It also mimics an Italian feel and offers the perfect balance of peace, bliss, and serenity. 

Jacksonville also has plenty of murals throughout Downtown, Riverside, and the Springfield areas, but if venturing from place to place for a photo isn’t your thing, you should head to the Phoenix Art District. This venue is your all-in-one art warehouse for urban and contemporary street art created by local artists. It’s perfect for finding a variety of background options to match your mood and personality. 

It wouldn’t be right to live in Jacksonville and not desire scenic beach views. Add a nautical touch to your IG feed when you visit Boneyard Beach at Big Talbot Island State Park. It’s a popular photo spot for a reason. What differentiates this beach from the typical Florida beach scene is the arrangement of petrified driftwood trees scattered along the coast. You can play with the scenery to add dimension and beauty for a rustic and edgy look, or you can play it safe and highlight the tranquility of the surrounding environment.

Jacksonville has a variety of museums, but what’s new to hit the scene is selfie museums. The fast-growing do-it-yourself photography trend is taking over the social media world. Selfie WRLD Jax recently opened in June, and the Selfie Showroom is coming soon to the northside. Each room has its own interactive and eye-catching theme. They encourage you to bring props, and they provide fitting rooms, perfect for making your experience a full-out photo shoot. All you have to bring is your camera (fully charged because you’ll need it), family and friends, and a bright smile.

As you’re snapping away, remember to have fun. Yes, the glitz and glam of a photo-op are nice, but it’s not necessary. What’s necessary is that you have fun and be genuine; that’s what illuminates in a great photo.

Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens: 829 Riverside Ave. Jacksonville, FL; cummermuseum.org // @cummermuseum

Phoenix Art District: 2336 N Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL; phoenixartsdistrict.com // @phoenixartdistrict

Boneyard Beach: State Rd. A1A N Jacksonville, FL; floridastateparks.org // @fl.stateparks

Selfie WRLD Jax: 11112 San Jose Blvd. #25 Jacksonville, FL; selfiewrldjax.com //@selfiewrldjax

Selfie Showroom: 9433 Lem Turner Rd. Jacksonville, FL; selfieshowroom.com // @theselfieshowroom