15 Tips to Take Better Beach Photos
If you’re like me and love spending time by the ocean, then you know that capturing memories in photos is a must.
With the sun shining and waves crashing, it’s hard not to take beautiful photos.
Just because the sun and sand are close by doesn’t mean your shots have to be lackluster.
Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, these tips will help you capture your vacation memories in the best way possible.
So grab your sunscreen and camera and let’s get started!
1. Check Out The Sunrise or Sunset
One of the best things about beach shots is the natural beauty that comes with them.
Capturing either the sunrise or sunset can add an extra layer of magic to your photos.
If you’re looking for a more dramatic shot, go for the sunrise. On the other hand, if you want a photo with a warmer vibe, try sunset.
Either way, it’s a great opportunity to get creative with your shots. And you can post them in an awesome travel photobook afterwards!
Remember, a good camera for Instagram or wherever you will post your photos is only part of the equation, the scene will always come first!
2. Use Your Tripod
Although it’s tempting to just leave your tripod at home, if you’re looking for high-quality shots, then it’s a must-have.
Using a tripod will help keep your camera steady, which is key for avoiding blurry photos.
Plus, it can be helpful for getting those low and high angle shots that are so popular on the beach.
Also, if you are alone then a tripod would be that best friend you will need to take pictures of yourself.
3. Bring A Lens Hood
If you’re planning on shooting photos in direct sunlight, then you will need to have a lens hood.
Lens hoods help to protect your camera lens from the sun’s harsh rays, which can cause flare and distortion.
Not only will it help keep your photos looking clear, but it’ll also help keep your camera lens from getting too hot.
4. Use Water Reflections
One of the best things about being near the ocean is the abundance of water reflections.
Try to use these reflections in your photos to create a more interesting composition.
You can either use them as a main subject or as a complimentary element in the background.
5. Capture The Wildlife
From crabs and seagulls to dolphins and whales, there’s always something new to see.
If you’re lucky, you might even get to see a turtle hatching.
Be sure to take advantage of this and capture some photos of the wildlife in their natural habitat.
But please, DO NOT disturb them! Taking a picture of wild animals can be done from a distance and without invading their habitat.
Be conscious about the environment and the wildlife of the beach you are visiting.
6. Focal Point Your
When taking photos at the beach, it’s important to keep in mind your main subject.
Try to use a rule of thirds composition and place your subject off-center.
This will help make your photo more interesting and draw the viewer’s attention to what you want them to see.
7. Try Polarizing Filters
If you want to take your beach photos to the next level, then consider using polarizing filters.
Polarizing filters help reduce glare and reflections, making your photos look sharper and more vibrant.
They can be a great addition to your camera bag, especially if you’re shooting landscapes or seascapes.
8. Watch The Horizon
One of the most common mistakes when photographing the beach is having a crooked horizon.
This is often caused by tilting your camera to compensate for the uneven surface.
To avoid this, be sure to keep an eye on your horizon and adjust your shot accordingly.
9. Search For Unique Details
Beach photos can often be quite generic, but with a bit of creativity, you can capture some unique shots.
Instead of just photographing the sand and sea, look for unique details to add interest.
This could be anything from an interesting texture in the sand to a colorful beach umbrella.
By focusing on the smaller details, you can create photos that are truly unique.
10. Try To Avoid People
Unless you’re going for a specific shot with people in the background, try to avoid having them in your photos.
People can often be a distraction and can take away from the main subject of the photo.
If you can’t help but include them, try to wait until they’re in a less busy part of the beach.
For that you should try to go to the beach early in the morning, when it is less likely to be crowded or during low season would be even better.
11. Include More People
On the other hand,
people in your photos can be a great way to add interest.
While it’s not always easy to get a good shot with lots of people in it, it can be worth the effort.
Try to find interesting compositions and use different angles to capture the scene.
Including more people in your photos can add a sense of scale and help to tell a story. With the use of Smoke Grenade or any other props you can add value to your photos
12. Burst Mode
When photographing a scene with lots of action, such as at the beach, it’s a good idea to use burst mode.
This will help ensure that you capture the moment and don’t miss any crucial shots.
Burst mode is also great for capturing movement, such as waves crashing against the shore.
This mode will allow you to take multiple shots in quick succession, giving you a better chance of getting a good one.
13. Try Different Shutter Speed Settings
Another way to capture action is by using a fast shutter speed.
This will help freeze the action and prevent any blurry shots.
On the other hand, if you want to capture the motion of the waves or people in the water, you’ll need to use a slower shutter speed.
Experiment with different settings to see what works best for your scene.
14. Protect Your Equipment From Sand And Water
Beach photography can be a messy business, especially if you’re shooting near the water.
Sand and salt can easily get on your lens and cause image degradation.
Make sure to clean your lens regularly, especially if it’s raining or humid.
A simple microfiber cloth will do the trick. Also, it’s a good idea to keep it in a camera bag when not in use to protect it from damage.
If your camera does get wet, try to dry it off as soon as possible and remove any sand that may be inside.
It’s also a good idea to keep your camera in a cool, dry place when not using it.
15. Stay Safe
Last but not least, remember, beach photography can be a lot of fun but it’s important to stay safe while doing it.
Make sure to obey all safety signs and never venture too close to the water.
Sunscreen is a must-have when shooting at the beach too.
The last thing you want is to get a sunburn in the middle of your vacation.
Make sure to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun.
And don’t forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated!
Conclusion!
Beach photography can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to take into account a few things before you start shooting.
Summertime is the perfect season for fun in the sun at the beach! Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or playing sand games, it’s always a blast to capture memories of your trip on camera.
To make sure your beach photos turn out looking amazing, follow these tips!
