Level Up Your Bookish Bath Photos

Nothing revives you quicker than a hot bath and a good book, but before dipping your toe into the steaming, sudsy water, grab your phone and seize an opportunity. In just a few easy steps, you can create a stunning, aesthetically pleasing photo for your promotion or Instagram account.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit, my real baths are never this fancy. I’m not even brave enough to read physical books in the bath. One single splash could ruin a treasure from my collection. However, that doesn’t stop me from snapping a few quick shots before I return it safely to the shelf and cozy up with bubbles and an audiobook.

Things you need:

A beautiful book.
A bathtub tray.
A colorful bath bomb or food coloring.
Props; flowers, candles, soaps, drinks, candies, crowns, daggers, ect.
White poster board.
Your phone.

1. Clean your tub

Chances are you do this anyway before a relaxing bath, but if you haven’t used it in a while, be sure to give it a good wipe down to clear away and dust. After your tub is sparkling, set down your tray and run the water.

2. Gather your props

These can literally be anything. Let your imagination run wild, just be sure what you choose matches the aesthetic and tone of your book. Gather as much as you like. You can always go take things out. No need to go overboard. If you’re stuck, try using things you would actually use in the bath. Lotions, shower wash, soaps, eye pillows and candles.

3. Arrange your props

You don’t have to get this perfect the first time. During the shoot, you can always stop and switch things around for a different look. Just be sure not to overshadow your book. Remember, the book is the focal point of your photo and where you want to draw the eye.

4. Set your lighting

Here is the golden rule of lighting. Natural light is the best light. I happen to have daylight lightbulbs in my bathroom, (which is especially helpful when doing a bath shoot at night) but I still use a thick white poster board to reflect the light. I recommend using one with all your bookstagram photos. It really helps get rid of pesky shadows. Pull your shower curtain all the way back—in fact, mine is usually sticking out the door of my tiny bathroom when I’m doing a shoot.

5. Try different angles

Now comes the fun part: taking the photo! Don’t be afraid to get into the bath and hover right over the bath tray. Move things around. Stand your book up, or even open to your favorite chapter. Sometimes I even throw in a different book and re-arrange the props so I’ll have another post set up for a future date. If an angle doesn’t turn out as well as you see it in your mind, don’t worry, you’ll have lots of other shots to choose from.

Editing Tips:

Bath photos tend to look best in bright, cool light, so a good filter to start with in Instagram is Clearedon. I don’t usually turn it up all the way, staying anywhere from twenty to forty-five percent.
Typically, you’ll only want the tub in your photo, so remember to crop out the little trash can by the toilet if you have a small bathroom like me. It will also help draw the eye to your book.
Pay attention to the book cover, because sometimes it can turn hazy after heavy editing. Remember, the cover is the focal point of your photo so when in doubt, make sure it is clear and the title is easy to read.

Bathtub book photos are one of my favorite posts to make. Not only do you get a relaxing reward afterward, but you’ll always end up with a fun, unique photo your followers will love.

Constance Roberts

Constance Roberts is a retired flight attendant who turned in her wings to stay at home with her adventurous children and to write. She and her husband live in St. Louis, Missouri where they spend the weekends playing board games with friends. She is an avid bookstagramer and you can find her on Instagram at @imagery.in.pages

or check out her website

https://www.constancerobertsauthor.com/