How to Find a Great Sunset Photography Location

Tips to Find Sunset Photography Locations

Look for interesting scenes that are unusual in the day. If you are taking pictures during the day, avoid the places where the sun is at its most intense; in the UK, this means mid afternoon.

Avoid busy roads and traffic, which will mean you have to wait for the sunset. If possible, shoot at sunset, which will ensure the light will be at its brightest and you will be able to shoot uninterrupted.

Find a nice spot that provides good views and doesn’t block other viewpoints. If you want to take pictures of other people, make sure you aren’t blocking their view.

Look at the horizon – this will create some unique perspectives, which are often seen in photos.

If you want to get a sense of what it will look like at the end of the day, go early.

Ask the locals if there is anywhere good for sunset photography near to you, and go and find out for yourself.

Go out at dusk – this gives you more time, and if you can shoot during the golden hour, you will have the best light.

Tips for taking great sunset photography

Here are our top ten tips for taking beautiful sunset images.

1. Look for light in the sky

Sunset and sunrise happen when the sun is low in the sky. Try looking for a place where there is either a big, round ball of light in the sky or where there is a bright cloud and rays of light coming through it.

2. Go early

Sunsets occur at different times depending on where you are in the world. You’ll be able to see the first light streaks of pink and orange in the sky about 45 minutes before the sun actually sets.

3. Shoot early

Don’t wait for the sun to set and then rush around trying to capture the moment. Your best shots will be taken when the sun is setting and you can enjoy the moment without having to run around with a camera.

4. Get the right time of day

The time of day you go to a particular location will determine whether you will be able to capture a beautiful sunset. For example, you’re more likely to get a good sunset shot if you visit somewhere in the morning or evening rather than during the middle of the day. This is because the atmosphere at sunset is usually cooler and less dense than during the midday heat.

5. Look for a wide horizon

A wide horizon gives you a feeling of space, especially if you’re photographing somewhere on the coast.

6. Try to find a place with a long horizon

A long horizon can create some really interesting perspective images. If you’re shooting from a high vantage point, you’ll be able to shoot a long way into the distance.

7. Find a place with a lot of color

Sunsets are often a beautiful shade of orange, red and purple. Find a location with lots of color in the sky, even if it’s not a sunset. You’ll be able to use this as a “warm up” shot, which can make for a more dramatic image.

8. Don’t be afraid of the dark

Shooting in the dark isn’t always a bad thing. Often it means that the colors and shapes of the clouds are more vivid. It can also mean that there are fewer lights on, so you have to rely more on the colors and texture of the clouds themselves.

9. Be patient

You’re not going to get a great sunset every time you go out. Sometimes the sun just isn’t visible for a while, or clouds come between you and it, and other times it may be cloudy. You’ll need to be patient, take lots of photos and keep experimenting until you’ve got the perfect shot.

10. Avoid direct sunlight

Direct sunlight can wash out the colors of the sky and make for a dull photograph. If you’re going to try to get a sunset shot, try to avoid the areas of the sky directly above and below the sun.

Sunset Photography Ideas

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