JessicaPaullus
FollowTaken June 2015 Siesta Key, Florida
Taken June 2015 Siesta Key, Florida
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Behind The Lens
Location
I took this photo on Siesta Key, a small island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida in the Gulf of Mexico. It is one of my favorite vacation spots and is known for its white quartz beaches and beautiful sunsets.Time
This was taken at sunset.Lighting
The lighting in this image is available light from the sun.Equipment
I used an Iphone 5s. No other equipment was used.Inspiration
I love the beach and the ocean, and the beaches on Siesta Key in particular. I look for shots that capture the laidback culture and mood of the beach community there. Since Siesta Key is known for its sunsets, there are many shots of just the sunset and the water. I look for opportunities to make images that have a unique element and add to the photograph's story, like the paddle boarder who is almost silhouetted by the setting sun. I saw the paddle boarder out of the corner of my eye and waited until he entered the center of the frame and took this shot.Editing
I adjusted the lighting in the photo in post - turned down the brightness and upped the contract. That's it.In my camera bag
Normally, I always carry my Nikon D500 with a Sigma 35mm art lens and my Iphone (current model I am now using is the 7s). I don't carry a lot of things with me although I often wish I had my tripod along so I am considering investing in a monopod to have something smaller to take with me.Feedback
Westward facing beaches are great for capturing sunsets. A similar shot like this could also be captured from a boat. Look for unique elements that add to the image so you are not taking a generic sunset over the water image. While these shots can be beautiful, they can lack uniqueness, something I strive for in my work. Don't shoot directly into the sun. Look for a partly cloudy day as the clouds add to the sunset by giving additional color and interest to the image. Having the sun off center with another subject highlighted in the center of the image works really well. Patience is something else I would advise. Walk your camera in the location you want to shoot. Become familiar with your surroundings. Observe, observe, observe and look for details. Have your camera ready to shoot as you never know when a moment is going to happen.