Anybody who knows me, knows I love taking photos of the amazing colours that paint the sky during a sunrise or sunset; and I especially love taking those photos near the ocean. The water reflects different shades of oranges, yellows, pinks and purple. Every sunrise and sunset is unique and absolutely beautiful. I am always surprised and stuck watching in awe and wonder. Having a few clouds scattered in the sky makes the experience so much better. They create a glorious light show that changes with every minute.
While watching a sunrise or sunset, most people usually face the sun, however I also try to remember to turn around and have a look at the “reverse” sunrise or sunset. The glow in the sky behind you is lovely and usually turns the sky a beautiful pink. Don’t forget to take a few selfies while you are facing this way because the glow on your face is definitely #nofilter worthy.
Tips for taking SUNRISE photos:
Find a spot about half an hour before the actual sun rises over the horizon, because that’s when you will get the best colours across the sky.
Find a spot that has interesting things to photograph like trees (especially palm trees), flowers, people, boats, etc.
Tips for taking SUNSET photos:
Find a spot you can sit and relax to watch mother nature’s best show.
Don’t stop watching when the sun sets under the horizon, especially if there are a few clouds in the sky, because the show isn’t over…
Here are a few sunrise and sunset photos I took on my recent trip to Hawaii from 11 to 21 January 2019. The sunsets were so pretty with all of the palm trees along Waikiki Beach. I took all of these photos using my iPhone XS and they are straight off my phone without any editing.
Show me your favourite sunrise or sunset photos, that you’ve taken, in the comments below.
I am really impressed by your pictures as I think that the Ocean has a particular magnetism in terms of sunrise and sunset. I had the first chance to see the Atlantic sea sunset only two years ago, when I visited Portugal and the colours of that moment are still vivid in my eyes.
Thank you so much @Sorbe , your photo is beautiful. Having the opportunity to watch a sunrise or sunset over the ocean is a special moment and absolutely life changing.
Gorgeous photos, @PennyChristie ! I was reading and dreaming about my future trip to Hawaii. I hope it happens some day!
It is amazing how nature is so beautiful that you don’t need any special effects or filters to edit your photos. My favourite photo is the one with the pineapple and the endless ocean in the background. I felt like I was sitting on the beach, having a cocktail (the little umbrella is a must) and feeling the heat of the sun on my face just by watching it.
Thank you for the great sunrise/sunset tips. I will take them into consideration for my next photos.
Here is one of my favourite photos of the sunrise, taken at the seaside in Burgas.
Haha! Yes, little umbrellas and cocktails are definitely a must. Thank you for your kind comments. Your sunrise photo in Burgas is absolutely beautiful. I love it.
Awesome article @PennyChristie and absolutely love the photos! I love sunsets best as I also love dusk… that quiet moment after a busy day. And also for the fact that I don’t have to get up at some ridiculous hour to see a sunrise !!