Heading to the beach this summer?

It’s an awesome spot for photos!

If you’re going to be shooting your own family at the beach or maybe you’re shooting a full session there, here are 7 Easy Tips For Taking Pictures At The Beach and making the most out of the gorgeous location!

 

1. Shoot the Beach

This one seems like a no brainer right? If you are at beach, then you must make sure to get some shots of the beach! Sand and water are a perfect combination for a beautiful photograph-but if you are not used to shooting in bright sun with water that is reflecting that bright sun, then you are in for a surprise. It can be tricky, so try shooting at a narrower aperture then you are used to or a faster shutter speed. Doing this will help keep your photo from getting overexposed. Another difficulty with shooting the beach is that the sky will most likely blow out. Because of this, see tip #2

( Both shots showcase both the water and sand landscape of the beach. Taken with a Canon 5d Mark ii)

2. Take a Sky Shot

Make sure to take some photos of just the sky. Expose for the sky and take a few shots. Beach sunsets and sunrises are especially beautiful, so make sure you time it to get a photo of the pretty colors.? These shots will be pretty on their own or can be used as an overlay in some of your earlier shots of the beach. (see how to add a sky overlay here)

RELATED PRODUCT: COZY CLICKS SKY AND RAINBOW OVERLAYS

3. Use the Pier

Most likely there will be a pier somewhere near the beach you are at (if not, no big deal- but if there is, use it!) Under the pier has awesome areas for open shade and by sticking your subject right under it and facing them outward, you will capture some incredibly flattering shots. Piers also have awesome leading lines which can make for some super cool compositions. Play around with the different combinations and see what you come up with!

(Subject is directly under the pier at the edge looking out, notice the flattering light across her face)

 

4. Check out the Boardwalk

The boardwalk of a beach is always an interesting place to photograph. They’re generally colorful and full of action.? Boardwalks can make a great backdrop for a family or child photo, but also are really interesting if you’re a street photographer. Play around with the different angles and perspectives of the boardwalk. Also, don’t worry if it’s crowded with people- use them to your advantage!

5. Think Outside the Box

Ok, so going back to tip #1, obviously if you’re at the beach, shoot it. BUT, there is so much more to offer at most beaches that we don’t let ourselves see because of the beauty of the water and sand. Look around and see if you notice any different types of plants, bushes or trees. Do you see steps or lifeguard towers? Use those as part of your photograph!

(These two shots were taken just opposite the water where there were many green bushes and flowers. Both shots taken with a 135mm 2.0 lens)

6. Get Playful Shots

If you are at the beach, make sure to get some playful candid shots. Running in the sand, playing in the water, building a sandcastle or just laying out in the sun. All beach activities are perfect for capturing with that camera.

7. Embrace the Full Sun

Let’s face it, it’s the beach. People are there to bask in the sun and there will be sun. Don’t be afraid of it! Use to your advantage.  Play around with the settings on your camera and the way the light hits your subject. It is recommended to shoot with faster shutter speeds and low ISO. It might be different from what you are used to and that is OK! Have fun and get creative with the harsh light. You just might take something really cool!

( Shot taken at high noon in full sun with 50 mm 1.4)

BONUS Video Photoshop Tutorial!

When you are taking pictures of the beach the water never seems to come out looking as beautiful, blue and vibrant as it does in real life. If  the water in your beach pictures is looking dull or gray, watch here to learn how to add in some extra color in Photoshop! ( This is the same technique I used in all the above shots to make the water look more vibrant)