Best Time for Beach Photos

I have spent most of my life living on the coast. I love the beach.

Kwazulu Natalhas some amazing beaches and I have photographed at most beaches between Salt Rock on the North Coast and Port Edward on the South Coast.

Often being asked to do beach photos, weather it be a couple, wedding, maternity  or family photoshoot, I have created a guide to assist.

I worked throughout the year on our beautiful beaches - so blessed right?

One can never predict what the weather will be like weeks in advance. I normally look at predictions a day or two before the shoot date for the most accurate prediction, but it still is just a prediction, we relying on weather apps, and they sometimes get it wrong. 

I want to give you a little insight into the best times of day and months for beach photos. I am not saying you should not do a shoot in a particular month because I say it will be windy, not at all, I am just highlighting my experience over the years.

I have created memories for people in the rain and the wind. It can be done! Ultimately, we want great weather for your beach photoshoot.

BEST TIME OF DAY
The best time for beach photos is the hour from sun has just popped out above the horizon or the hour before it sets. 

These two hours are the perfect times. We refer to these hours as the golden hours in photography.

Mornings are more predictable than afternoons. In the afternoons, the wind normally blows. A moderate wind can be unpleasant on the beach - remember there is no shelter to shield the wind. Mornings usually have little wind - it is the best time of the day on the beach. Afternoons can be amazing, certain times of the year are better than others.

Outside of these hours, it is very difficult to get amazing photos on the beach. It is very bright (everyone will be squinting) and in summer, very hot. Certain beaches can get very busy, so the early hours work best.

BEST MONTHS

On the coast of Kwazulu Natal, we do not experience winters they way the rest of the country does. I photograph all year round, however, certain months are more predictable than others.

• August and September are our windy months. Sunrise photoshoots are essential.
• October is the start of the rainy season in Kwazulu Natal. (The most difficult month of the year when it comes to dealing with the weather).
• From October to January the weather is very unpredictable. The weather predictions seem to change every few hours.
• December is often more overcast than sunny. (I do an average of 30 family photoshoots in this month. It is quite insane as I am in constant contact with clients scheduling shoots to ensure the best possible weather).
• February and March is humid but the weather is normally beautiful. Very hot days with little wind.
• April and May - becomes a little cooler in the mornings but the weather is normally fantastic.
• Our winter months, June and July have great weather, chilly in the mornings, but quite predictable. We do have some big cold fronts that come through in these months, but it is a stunning time of year on the coast.

No matter the month, I look forward to creating memories!

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