The Pumpkin Head Photoshoot Guide You Didn't Know You Needed

It’s that time of year when creativity comes with a pumpkin on its head. If you’ve been meaning to try this shoot, consider this your all-in-one prep guide. I’ll walk you through everything from carving to editing, so your results feel intentional, unique, and totally post-worthy.

Make Your Pumpkin Pics Pop

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What You'll Need

Keep it simple.

• 1 large pumpkin that fits over your head

• Marker, carving knife, large spoon

• Towel, trash bag, shower cap or beanie

• Outfit with texture. Think knits, denim, boots

• Optional props: leaves, smoke, lanterns, blankets

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Picking Your Pumpkin

Go tall and light so your shoulders carry the weight, not your neck. Avoid super round, heavy pumpkins. Look for a flat bottom so it sits steady when you set it down.

Carving Your Pumpkin

Mark the face first. Cut from the bottom so you can lift it on and off easily. Scoop until the inside feels light. Wipe it dry so it doesn’t slip.

Safety Check

Bring water and wipes. Take breaks. If it feels heavy, stop. Keep knives and candles away from kids. Fake candle lights work if you want a glow.

Style Check

Textures read well on camera. Flannel, leather, denim, chunky sweaters. Neutral palettes make the pumpkin the star. Add one bold accent if you want drama.

Location Ideas

Patches, fields, alleys, parking decks, tree lines, porches, simple walls. You want clean backgrounds and space to move. Avoid crowded spots.

Shot List

• Full body with movement

• Mid shots playing with jacket or hair

• Close crop on the pumpkin face

• Walking toward camera

• Sitting on steps or curb

• Group or couple interaction

• One clean portrait for the cover

Quick Camera Tips

Keep shutter fast for movement. Slightly underexpose to protect detail. If on a phone, tap to lock focus and slide exposure down a touch.

Take Your Pumpkin Head Photos to the Next Level with Editing

Once you’ve got your Pumpkin Head shots, it’s time to bring them to life with some creative editing! You can amp up the spooky vibes by playing with shadows and contrast or keep it cozy with warm autumn tones. If you really want to add that cinematic flair, Jaide and Jett Presets are perfect for making your photos pop. Whether you’re going for eerie or dreamy, these presets will save you time and help you nail the perfect look.

Pumpkin Head Photoshoot Tips

Here is a list of all the tips/tricks I can think of when it comes to the Pumpkin Head Photoshoot.

What you should do :

• Pick a pumpkin large enough for your head.

• Mark where your facial features are on the pumpkin prior to carving.

• Pick a fun expression for your jack-o-lantern.

• Carve a hole in the bottom of your pumpkin.

• Wipe your pumpkin thoroughly with a towel until dry.

• Wear a shower cap/stocking hat to protect head/hair during photoshoot.

How to : Pumpkin Head Photoshoot Prep Guide

If you found this guide helpful, I’d love for you to give it a thumbs up at the bottom! Your support truly means a lot to me. And if you do a photoshoot like this, feel free to share your photos in the comments below!

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Photos By Cienna So Photo edited with Jaide & Jett Presets