When photographing at the beach, no matter what your subject, I feel it's important to include the ocean in the composition.
The ocean is not just a backdrop; it brings a unique sense of scale, movement, and atmosphere to your photos. Whether you’re shooting a portrait, a landscape, or candid moments of people enjoying the sand and surf, the inclusion of the ocean creates a sense of place and adds depth to your images.
Here are some tips for effectively incorporating the ocean into your beach photography:
The horizon line is a powerful compositional element. To create a balanced image, consider the rule of thirds. Place the horizon either one-third from the top or bottom of the frame, depending on whether you want to emphasize the sky or the ocean. Keeping the horizon straight is crucial to maintaining a professional look.
The wet sand near the water’s edge can reflect the sky, clouds, and even your subject, adding an extra layer of interest. Additionally, the ripples in the sand, waves crashing on the shore, or patterns left by the tide provide dynamic textures that enrich your composition.
The golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—is ideal for beach photography. The warm, soft light during these times enhances the natural beauty of the ocean and creates dramatic shadows and highlights. The colors of the sky during golden hour also complement the blues and greens of the water.
To add depth and context to your photos, include foreground elements such as rocks, driftwood, shells, or footprints. These details not only frame the ocean but also help to guide the viewer’s eye through the image.
The ocean is constantly in motion. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze crashing waves or a slow shutter speed to create a dreamy, blurred effect. Capturing movement brings life and energy to your shots.
Experiment with low angles to make the ocean appear vast and imposing or shoot from a higher vantage point to reveal patterns and textures in the water. Changing your perspective can make even familiar beach scenes feel fresh and exciting.
Cloudy days at the beach can be just as photogenic as sunny ones. Dramatic skies paired with a moody ocean create a different but equally captivating aesthetic. Don’t be afraid to shoot in less-than-perfect conditions—the results might surprise you.
Including people or wildlife in your ocean shots provides a sense of scale and interaction. A lone figure walking along the shoreline, seabirds in flight, or surfers riding the waves can make your composition more compelling.
By thoughtfully including the ocean in your beach photography, you create images that are not only visually stunning but also evoke the emotions and memories associated with the sea. So next time you head to the beach with your camera, let the ocean be your muse.