Beach Photography

Beach photography is very difficult, it's hard to capture the picture you want at the exact right time. I'm going to give you six tips coming from Darren Rowse

Photo available at; http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4441806859_86fdaa9c64.jpg

1. Look for focal points, don't just try to capture the ocean. Try to capture a picture that tells a story, something that means something to you, and maybe someone else looking at it.
2. Timing is important. If you want to capture a wave breaking or the horizon, you can't wait. You capture it right when it's happening or before it does if possible. Waiting until last minute gives the possibility of losing your shot.
3. Watch the Horizon. The horizon is very important in any beach shot, because it's basically the background. Don't just capture a line in the back, try waiting until the horizon looks amazing over the water. When it is multi-colored and looks beautiful hanging off the ocean.
4. Head to the beach when others avoid it. I myself have gotten a great picture but someone may have walked in front of me and now the whole picture is ruined. Go when it isn't packed, when it's about to storm is a great time because instead of coming most are leaving.
5. Black and white. Black and white pictures of the beach can come out amazing. The one at the top of my post, for example. The beach isn't packed, it's in black and white. It isn't right up on him and it's still an amazing picture of two people. 

Not every beach picture has to be of the beach, it can be of anything. Broaden your views, take pictures of everything. It's usually the things we don't think will make good pictures that come out to be our favorite. Sunsets make for good pictures too, but you have to be careful when turning your camera straight to the sun because you don't want to capture a big circle. I hope these tips have helped you, and when you go to the beach you remember them. Submit any good pictures you have here in the comment box. :)