There is just something about a sunset over the Pacific Ocean.  It is even more enjoyable to share a sunset at the beach as a couple watching the warm setting sun.  Coastal California Sunsets are famous for a reason.

Coastal Southern California

The coast of southern California is famous for it’s relaxing vibe, surfing, and sunsets.  From places like La Jolla all the way up to the beaches in Malibu amazing ocean scenery is everywhere.  Therefore, this stretch of coast also is outstanding for taking photographs of sunsets.

Behind The Scenes

This image, titled “Couple Watching Warm Setting Sun” was taken in the summer of 2017. It was taken at a beach named Swami’s.  This famous locals surfing hangout has some of the best waves around.  It is also a great place to take in a sunset with your partner.

This was actually a quite challenging image to capture.  It required a tripod for the long exposure.  I was on a narrow stairway where people were coming by with their surfboards, so the tripod and I were right up against the edge of the railing.  This is a great opportunity to remind photographers that it is really important to stay out of others way while out photographing especially in busy ares.  It spreads a good vibe of the profession and keeps people form getting irritated.

Photographing sunsets can be a joy, and also a challenge.  There are usually deep shadows and expansive highlights.  Therefore, I usually use a polarizing filter with a split graduated filter.  This usually allows me to capture the image in one exposure and and keep some of the detail in the water.

While I was setting up for this shot, I noticed the couple sitting on the rocks down below.  Therefore, I composed the photograph to ensure they were in the shot.  Having them in the shot also helps with scale, and showing just how vast this beautiful place is.

Thank you for visiting my site, and I hope you enjoy the image.

This photograph is in my shop HERE.

Coastal California Photography warm colored sunset at the beach with couple off in distance watching

Couple Watching Warm Setting Sunset

The Trip

Swami’s beach is a great place to visit.  You can the acrobatics of the surfers, enjoy the nature, and even take in some birds flying by.  This place is awesome for a stroll on the beach or just catching some sun.  As shown here, it is also a great place for a couple to watch the warm setting sun.

If you are going to take your camera there are some things to remember: 

  • The salt water is very bad for a camera and lens.  Therefore, make sure to keep your camera protected
  • If you are out photographing the beaches of SoCal it is easy to lose track of time and get a sunburn.  As a result, it is important to always take sunscreen with you.
  • Keep your gear safe by keeping it out of the sand.
  • Store a towel in your vehicle to wipe down your gear before you pack it into your car.  This will get the sand and salt off your gear as quickly as possible.  As a result, you won’t have to do it as soon as you get back to the house.

If you like sunsets, then don’t miss my my behind the scenes of Sunset Redondo Beach Pier.

More Fine Art Photographs

Don’t forget to look at the images on my site in the galleries starting at: https://mjvphoto.com/the-art/.  Hopefully you find some of them inspirational for your own photography adventures, or maybe you find an image you want to call your own.