Beach photography in the tropics: 8 tips

A white-sand beach, a turquoise lagoon, a sunset: the setting is a dream, but it also poses real challenges for photography. Too much light, reflections, sand, salt and heat put gear and images to the test. Here is how to get beautiful photos in New Caledonia.

1. Avoid the middle of the day

Between 10 am and 3 pm the light is harsh and creates strong shadows on faces. Favour early morning and late afternoon. More details in my article on golden hour in Nouméa.

Framed photo of Anse Vata in Nouméa, New Caledonia — Anse Vata, in Nouméa: a magnificent setting that calls for a little method.

2. Watch out for overexposure

Light sand and water reflect an enormous amount of light: cameras tend to underexpose the subject or blow out the highlights. Adjust exposure by –0.3 to –1 EV as needed, and check the screen.

3. Protect the lens from the sun

A lens hood (or your hand) limits stray reflections. A polarising filter improves sky contrast and reduces reflections on the water.

4. Master backlighting

A sunset behind your loved ones gives beautiful silhouettes. To light their faces, use a reflector, a flash, or position yourself so that the sun is to the side.

5. Protect your gear from sand and salt

change lenses out of the wind, never on the sand;
slip the camera into a waterproof bag or cover between shots;
wipe it with a soft cloth lightly dampened with fresh water after a day by the sea.

6. Avoid thermal shock

Going from an air-conditioned vehicle to the humid outdoors causes fogging on the lens. Let the camera adapt for a few minutes before taking it out.

7. Look after the battery

Heat drains batteries and can damage them. Do not leave gear in full sun in a car or on the sand, and bring a spare battery.

8. Photographing the sea: you are part of the picture too

For beautiful family photos on the beach, it is better to hand the camera to a professional, who can photograph without anyone leaving the moment. Discover the holiday photo session in New Caledonia.

To organise your session in Nouméa or elsewhere in New Caledonia, contact me: I will reply quickly.