Summer means time off from school for most people and some real fun in the sun! Dedicated scrapbookers never shy away from bringing the camera along for all the fun summer adventures in hopes of getting those few great shots for their summer layouts.
 
Most summer activities provide several opportunities to gather inspiration for layouts. Think about your summertime activities and what kind of inspiration you can gather from each place you visit. If your family is going on vacation this summer, make sure to take plenty of photos of how you got there, places and people you visited, and pick up some souvenirs from each area to provide some inspiration for you layouts.
 
If you are just staying around home this summer, you can do the same thing! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Beachcombing – sand, shells, and other small treasures found on the beach make wonderful elements to bring your layouts to life. Color inspirations: tan, aqua, coral, ivory

• Swimming – Either in a pool or at the beach, don’t forget the movement and colors of the water and the fabulous patterns of swim wear and water toys/floaties. Color inspirations: all hues of blue, bright colors such as orange, green, purple and yellow

• Surfing – surf boards, wax, sand, sun block, swim wear and lifeguards all crowd the beaches this time of year. Color inspirations: turquoise, white, tan, orange, blue, green

• Boating – whether you are fishing, sailing or water skiing, the element ideas are endless: ropes, sails, skis, life vests, boats, fishing poles, bait, hooks. Color inspirations: red, blue, white, green

• Camping – tents, campfires, wood, bears, raccoons, are regular features when camping. Color inspirations: brown, tan, green, blue, gray, red

• Park play – cool grass, swings, merry-go-rounds, jungle gyms, and water. Color inspirations: green, red, blue, yellow, orange, brown
 
Summertime always means water activities to me, so my layouts are mostly filled with blues and greens and lots of photos of the beach. I have a new goal for my summer layouts this year - try new colors and elements that will go along with my photos. I might even have to make some new plans at new places... I guess I had better get busy!

~ Joy