Sep 11
30
Weekend Photography Tip: Better Beach Photos
On a couple recent beach shoots I was reminded how disappointing a strong West wind can be. Why? Because West winds = rough water and that makes for rough photos. Here are two tricks to avoid choppy distracting water in your beach photos:
Go Late-
Long exposures smooth rough water. The later in the day you’re shooting the easier it is to take a long exposure especially once the sun is down. Look at the photo below & you’ll notice that the 8 seconds did wonders to smooth out a nasty chop. Now the picture has a better artistic appeal. Tip: you can use a neutral density or polarizing filter to help darken the scene and facilitate longer shutter speeds. Trigger your camera via the self timer too. Tell me if I can answer a question on those points.
Use long exposures to clean up choppy water. Naples beach photography by Gordon Campbell www.swfloutdoorphotography.com.
Re-Compose
Your other option is to simply minimize the amount of water in the shot. Looking at the Naples Pier photo below I decided to throw out the rule of thirds, lose most of the water and take in more of the dramatic clouds. Your eye is drawn to them anyway so who cares? To me better than something that detracts.
Re compose and eliminate a distracting surf around your subject. Naples beach photography by Gordon Campbell www.swfloutdoorphotography.com.
So when stormy weather marks your trip to the beach fear not you’re still in control, it just takes a little imagination and these two tricks. Enjoy the weekend’s shooting, I’ll be at a football game Friday night and a car show on Saturday- say hello, Gordon.
From my Inbox…
Professional Photography from Ft. Meyers & Sanibel to Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades.
gordon@SWFLOutdoorPhotography.com
239-776-4743
copyright 2011 Gordon Campbell/Southwest Florida Outdoor Photography.
Are you interested in taking pictures in SWFL, looking for ideal locations and scenes for your next personal, group or business shoot? This e-book presents The Images of SWFL and beyond!