Photographing Portraits on the Los Angeles Coast
Photographing Portraits on the Los Angeles Coast
I don't photograph at the beach because I think every portrait needs an ocean behind it. I photograph there when the location, light, and feeling make sense for the photographs we want to create.
Photographing on the coast is different from working in a studio or even in a city environment. The light changes quickly, the wind has opinions about everyone's hair, and the tide can completely change the location. You have to pay attention and be willing to work with what the day gives you.
I've photographed people along the Los Angeles coast over the years, and each location has its own light, mood, and character. The beach itself isn't what makes a good portrait. It's what happens when the person, the environment, and the conditions come together.
My Approach
I don't work from a strict shot list or move someone through a series of poses. I like to have a general idea of what we're trying to make, but I want to see what works once we're actually there.
I often have a few reference photos on my phone so we can get on the same page about the look and feeling we're after.
At the beginning of a session, I like to keep things moving. I'll try different angles, backgrounds, and light to see what works best for the person. We might walk for a while, find somewhere to lean, or simply stop and talk. These first photographs also give everyone a chance to get comfortable in front of the camera.
We'll also talk about what you want from the session. Sometimes it's a family looking for warm, honest photographs, like in Photographing the Story of Motherhood.
The location is just one part of the photograph. The session should be built around the person and what they want from the photographs.
Wardrobe and Practical Considerations
I always talk about wardrobe because it defines the final images. Best for photo are things you would actually wear to the beach, keep it casual, its not a board meeting. I recommend solid colors, no logos, keep it classic and timeless. Also, busy patterns can be distracting. And it’s California, there is actually weather, bring a light layer.
Low and high tide are something to consider. I ask my partner, avid, life-long surfer in this department.
For families and couples, Instead of matching outfits, I'd recommend a soft shared color palette. It’s the same approach I use for family portrait photography in Los Angeles.
A few small things to think about before a session:
Sunscreen, applied early, so it has time to soak in before we start shooting
A hair tie or clip tucked in a pocket for windy moments
An extra outfit or cover up if kids or pets are joining in, or just to have options.
A reusable water bottle, especially for sessions that run through the warmer part of the day
Gear and Technique Behind it all….
I’m not a gearhead, but here is what is in my bag for a coastal session…
How to Protect Photography Gear from Sand and Saltwater
I store everything in a dry bag until I'm ready to shoot because sand and seawater are harsh on camera equipment. In order to keep sand out, I also refrain from frequently changing my lenses. I use two camera bodies with different focal lengths on each in order not to change a lens.
I clean my equipment, get rid of any salt residue and dry everything, blow it out with air, before putting it away after each beach session.
Since sand often seeps into zippers and seams, I never put my camera bag on damp sand. In order to guard against coastal humidity. I have a blanket or tarp.
Preparing for Your Session
Parking and strolling at the beach can take longer than anticipated, so I advise giving yourself extra time. We decide on the beach that best suits your mood before the session and talk about who will be there, as children and pets have an impact on the pace.
Additionally, embrace wind or sand because such unspoiled moments can produce the best photos.
Let's Talk
If a beach lifestyle session sounds like something you'd like to explore, I'd love to hear from you. Reach out and tell me a little about what you're picturing and we can talk through timing, location and what would work best for you and the people you want in the frame.
I'd be glad to help you plan a session that actually feels like you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of day for a beach portrait session?
Early morning or the couple of hours before sunset almost always give the softest, most flattering light.
Do you provide wardrobe guidance before the shoot?
Yes, we talk through colors and wardrobe ahead of time so everything works well together on camera.
How do you handle weather or wind on shooting days?
I check conditions and tides in advance and adjust the plan if needed, since a little wind usually adds movement and life to the images anyway.
Can you photograph families, couples and individuals at the beach?
Yes, I've done all three, and the approach shifts a bit depending on who's in front of the camera and what they're hoping to capture.
Do I need professional hair and makeup for a beach session?
It's not required. Some clients like a light touch of makeup for longevity in the sun and wind, but plenty of my favorite sessions have been completely natural.
