Capturing Bournemouth Beach: A Photographer’s Guide to the South Coast
This is a great example of ultra-wide angle photography. Bournemouth beach and pier photographed from the back of the BIC (Bournemouth International Centre).
This shot was taken with a Canon fisheye zoom lens, at the 15mm end of the scale- fisheye but not circular. I have corrected the fisheye effect as much as Adobe Lightroom can, using a lens profile correction. I could have eliminated the lens effect in Photoshop if I had wanted to but was happy with the result.
This proves That fisheye lenses are not just for those stylised effects associated with these lenses and that they can be used in conventional photography.
Bournemouth Beach is more than just a place for a day out; it's a photographer's dream. With its vast, sandy shores, iconic pier, and ever-changing coastal light, this location offers endless opportunities to capture stunning images. As a photographer, I find the beauty of Bournemouth lies in its versatility—it’s perfect for everything from vibrant, colourful shots to moody, fine art black and white seascapes.
If you’re looking to get the most out of your next trip to the coast, here’s a guide to help you find and capture the best shots at Bournemouth Beach.
1. Finding the Light: Early Mornings & Golden Hour
The best time to photograph Bournemouth Beach is at sunrise or sunset. This "golden hour" light is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow on the sand and water. In the early morning, the beach is often quiet, allowing you to capture a peaceful, uninterrupted scene. As the sun rises, the light changes rapidly, offering a dynamic and evolving canvas for your photography. Use this time to capture the long shadows and subtle colours of the day's beginning or end.
2. The Pier: Your Perfect Focal Point
Bournemouth Pier is a striking landmark that can be used in countless ways to improve your composition. Instead of just taking a straight-on shot, try using the pier as a strong focal point. You can get right underneath the pier and shoot up to create a powerful, symmetrical image with strong leading lines. Or, you can stand at a distance and use a telephoto lens to compress the scene, making the pier appear grand and central. The pier is also excellent for creating silhouettes against a vibrant sunset sky.
3. Mastering Fine Art Seascapes
While the beach is beautiful in bright sunlight, don't be discouraged by a dull, grey day. Overcast conditions are perfect for creating dramatic, fine art black and white seascapes. The flat light of a cloudy day allows for a more even tone, while the long exposure of a moving sea can create a dreamy, ethereal effect. The wooden groynes that dot the beach are fantastic subjects for these shots. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to smooth out the waves and transform the scene into a minimalist, high-impact photograph.
4. Capturing Colourful Beach Huts
Along Bournemouth Beach, you'll find rows of classic British beach huts. These colourful structures are fantastic for adding a pop of colour to your photos. Use them to create a sense of scale, a vibrant background, or a repetitive pattern. Try framing a portrait against a bright hut or using them to lead the viewer's eye into the scene. They add a whimsical and cheerful element to any shot, and their vibrant colours stand out beautifully against the sand and sea.
5. Details and Textures: Don't Forget to Look Down
As with any great photography, it's not just about the grand view. Remember to look down and find the details. The patterns in the wet sand, the foamy texture of a receding wave, or a piece of driftwood half-buried in the shore all tell a story. Getting in close to these elements can create abstract, powerful images that are uniquely yours. By focusing on these small parts of the scene, you can practice your composition and light skills, and create a more intimate collection of images.
Final Thoughts
Bournemouth Beach is a true gem on the south coast for photographers. Whether you’re looking to capture a lively family portrait, a dramatic landscape, or a fine art seascape, the beach has it all. The next time you visit, take a moment to see the scene with a photographer's eye, and you might just capture your next favourite image.