One of my biggest requests this season has been Champagne Pop photos, especially from graduating college seniors. I think they are so fun and festive and I love including them in your session. This blog post will help you get the best pop.
Champagne Pop Photos – 7 Tips for the best pop!
1. Bring at least 2 bottles:
Always bring 2 bottles, in case one malfunctions. 🍾🍾 Always, always, always! Several times we’ve had to break into the 2nd bottle. Most of the champagne will be wasted, so only buy the expensive bottles if you want to look ballin’. Please note: Client is responsible for providing their own champagne. Photographer does not provide champagne.
2. Sparkling cider is a cheaper option:
If you love the look of the pop, but not the price, check out sparkling cider or grape juice. It’s a bit cheaper and pops and sprays the same. From a distance, you can’t even tell the difference.
3. Add flutes or coupé glasses:
This is one of my faves. Consider adding flutes or coupé glasses for even more fun photos. I love detail shots, especially when the sun shines through the liquid or glass. I’m loving these right now.
4. Bring a towel:
Bring a small towel and/or some wet wipes. Sometimes it gets messy and sticky, especially if it’s a group shot with multiple bottles. On this note, I like to save the pop for the end of the session, since it can make a mess.
5. Bring a bottle opener:
Bring a bottle opener, just in case. Especially if the bottles are capped and not corked, which sometimes you don’t realize until the foil is removed.
6. Champagne Pop Photos – How to do it:
Let’s break down exactly how this works.
1. We’ll decide in advance exactly where to stand and the general pose for the pop.
2. Remove the foil, but wait for me to get into place and ready before removing the muselet (cage). I have seen the cork pop off on its own once the cage was removed (before we were ready).
3. Remove the cage and gently remove the cork. Immediately cover the opening with your thumb.
4. Now for the fun part! Give it a really good shake and it will start exploding (it’s like holding the end of a water hose where a tiny bit of the opening is free for the liquid to escape). And I snap the shutter as you enjoy the magic. Keep shaking as it sprays.
5. Don’t forget to laugh and smile!
7. Lastly, clean it up:
Litter is gross. Make sure to trash the cork and foil, and probably even the bottle in an appropriate trash can at the end of the session.
Are you ready to start poppin’? If so, send me a message here – I’d love to hear all about your celebration and photograph your champagne pop photos.
Check out a few of my favorite Champagne pop photos.
