Never take beach portraits in the middle of the day
Taking portraits on the beach can be a beautiful way to capture a memory or create a work of art. However, taking portraits in the middle of the day on the beach can lead to a variety of problems that can make it difficult to get the results you want.
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In this post, we’ll explore why taking portraits in the middle of the day on the beach is a bad idea and offer an alternative solution that will help you achieve the results you’re looking for.
Harsh light for beach portraits
One of the primary reasons why taking portraits in the middle of the day on the beach is problematic is because of the harsh, direct sunlight that is present during this time. The sun is at its highest point in the sky, and as a result, it casts strong, unflattering shadows on your subject’s face and body. This can make it difficult to capture an image that is well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing.
Harsh, bright, sunlight can cause your subject to squint and strain their eyes. This can make it difficult for them to relax and be themselves, which can result in awkward or unnatural poses and expressions.
The right exposure for beach portraits
Additionally, the bright sunlight can make it challenging to achieve the right exposure for your photos. If you’re using automatic settings on your camera, it may struggle to find the right balance between the bright highlights and the dark shadows. This can result in photos that are overexposed, underexposed, or have blown-out highlights and lost detail.
Way too hot for beach portraits
Finally, taking portraits in the middle of the day on the beach can be uncomfortable for your subject. The bright sunlight can make them hot and sweaty, which can be distracting and make it difficult for them to feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera.
What we suggest the perfect time is for your portraits
So, what is the alternative solution? The best time of day to take portraits on the beach is during what’s known as the “golden hour.” This is the hour or so after sunrise or before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and diffused. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, which means that the light is less harsh and the shadows are longer and more flattering.
Not only is the light during the golden hour more flattering for your subject, but it also creates a beautiful, warm glow that can add a sense of romance and magic to your photos. Additionally, the softer light makes it easier to achieve the right exposure and balance between light and dark in your images.
Of course, shooting during the golden hour requires a bit of planning and preparation. You’ll need to research the exact time of sunrise or sunset and plan your shoot accordingly. You’ll also need to be mindful of the changing light and adjust your settings as necessary to get the best results.
Another option for shooting portraits on the beach is to use a diffuser or reflector to soften the harsh light. A diffuser is a piece of fabric or material that you hold between the sun and your subject to filter the light and create a softer, more diffused effect. A reflector, on the other hand, bounces light back onto your subject to fill in shadows and create a more even, flattering light.
Taking portraits in the middle of the day on the beach is generally a bad idea due to the harsh, direct sunlight that is present. Instead, opt to shoot during the golden hour or use a diffuser or reflector to soften the light. By doing so, you’ll be able to capture beautiful, well-balanced images that showcase your subject in the best possible light.