Must-Have Essential Gear for Stunning Coastal Photography
Essential Gear for Coastal Photography: Coastal photography is one of my favourite forms of landscape photography. There’s something about the raw power of the sea, the constantly changing light, and the drama of waves crashing against rugged cliffs that keeps me coming back time and time again. Whether it’s the towering ruins of Whitby Abbey at sunrise, the shipwreck remains at Saltwick Bay, or the vibrant pier at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, the coast offers some of the most dynamic and rewarding photographic opportunities.
But shooting in these locations comes with its own set of challenges—harsh winds, unpredictable tides, and the ever-present risk of sea spray on your gear. Over the years, I’ve refined my setup to ensure I’m fully prepared for any coastal shoot.
Essential Gear for Coastal Photography
Capturing the coastline in all its glory requires careful preparation. The combination of saltwater, strong winds, and shifting weather means having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the essential gear I rely on when photographing the UK’s stunning coastline.
Sturdy Tripod – The Foundation of Coastal Photography
A solid tripod is a must for coastal photography, especially for long exposures. The movement of the water, combined with low light conditions during sunrise and sunset, means handholding just isn’t an option. A good tripod will:
- Keep your camera stable in strong winds.
- Allow for long exposures, smoothing out waves and creating dreamy, misty water effects.
- Help frame compositions precisely, especially when using foreground elements like rock formations or tidal pools.
My Tripod Setup for Coastal Photography
I use the Benro Tortoise 34CLV Levelling Tripod, which offers the perfect balance between weight and durability. Its levelling base makes it an excellent choice for landscape photographers who frequently work on uneven terrain, such as rocky coastlines or sandy beaches. The carbon fibre legs provide both strength and lightweight portability, making it ideal for long hikes along the shore.
The ball head mount allows for quick and precise adjustments, making it easier to recompose shots when chasing fleeting light. Additionally, the independent leg adjustments give extra stability when working in awkward positions, like low angles for foreground emphasis or shooting on sloping surfaces.
One tip I’ve learned: if you’re shooting on soft, wet sand, push the tripod legs down firmly to prevent them from sinking mid-exposure. If it’s particularly windy, I also hang my camera bag from the centre column for extra stability. The spiked feet that come with the tripod are useful for extra grip on loose surfaces, preventing unnecessary movement during long exposures.
Check out Lee Filters LEE100 Landscape Kit
ND Filters – Controlling Exposure for for Coastal Photography
Neutral density (ND) filters are essential gear for coastal photography. They allow for longer shutter speeds, which transform choppy waves into silky smooth surfaces and create that beautiful misty effect around rocks and piers.
I use the Lee Landscape which includes:
- Little Stopper (6-stop ND filter) – Perfect for balancing exposures when shooting just before sunrise or after sunset.
- Big Stopper (10-stop ND filter) – My go-to for creating long exposure seascapes, blurring moving water into a smooth, glass-like finish.
- Super Stopper (15-stop ND filter) – Ideal for ultra-long exposures in bright daylight, stretching shutter speeds to several minutes for dramatic cloud movement and ethereal waterscapes.
Having a variety of ND filters means I can adapt to changing light conditions and achieve different creative effects. I’d also highly recommend using a graduated ND filter to balance bright skies with darker foregrounds, ensuring well-exposed coastal scenes.
![Lee Super Stopper for 100mm System [SUP15100U2]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/216abpsqV9L.jpg)
Wide-Angle and Telephoto Lenses – Expanding the Seascape
Coastal photography is all about big skies, dramatic coastlines, and powerful leading lines, making a wide-angle lens a fantastic choice.
My Lens Setup
I rely on three key lenses to capture the full scope of the coastal environment:
- Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM – This prime lens delivers sharp, crisp images, making it ideal for capturing the intricate textures of rocky coastlines and the fine details of crashing waves. Its wide aperture allows for stunning low-light performance, perfect for golden hour or astrophotography by the sea. The clarity and contrast produced by this lens make it a fantastic tool for capturing the raw beauty of the coast in exceptional detail.
- Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM – This versatile zoom lens is my go-to for coastal photography, offering a flexible focal range that allows me to capture both expansive landscapes and tighter compositions with ease. It provides excellent image stabilisation, which is particularly useful when shooting handheld in windy conditions along the coast. The f/4 aperture ensures sharpness throughout the frame, making it a reliable choice for capturing the textures and details of rugged shorelines, rolling waves, and dramatic skies.
- Canon 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II – A telephoto lens is just as essential for coastal photography. It helps isolate distant subjects like dramatic rock formations, lighthouses, or seabirds in flight. I also use it for compressing perspective, which works beautifully when capturing waves rolling towards the shore or boats at sea.
If you want to capture more intimate coastal details, like waves swirling around a single rock, a 50mm prime lens can also be a great addition.
Polariser Filter Are Essential Gear for Coastal Photography
A polarising filter is one of the most underrated tools in essential gear for coastal photography. It helps in several ways:
- Cuts through glare and reflections on wet rocks and water surfaces.
- Deepens blue skies and makes clouds pop.
- Enhances colours and contrast, making seascapes look more vibrant.
This is particularly useful when photographing tidal pools or wet sand, as it helps bring out submerged textures that would otherwise be lost to reflection.
Headlamp – Essential for Low-Light Navigation for Coastal Photography
A headlamp is crucial for early morning or late evening shoots, helping you navigate safely along rocky shores, cliffs, and wet sand. Whether you’re setting up before sunrise or packing up after sunset, a hands-free headlamp ensures you can adjust settings and move around safely without fumbling in the dark.
When choosing a headlamp for coastal photography, look for one that offers adjustable brightness levels to suit different lighting needs. A red-light mode is particularly useful for preserving night vision when working in dim conditions, ensuring you can check settings without blinding yourself or disturbing the ambient light. Waterproof or weather-resistant models are a must to withstand the often damp and windy coastal environment. Additionally, having a rechargeable or long-lasting battery ensures your headlamp won’t die in the middle of a long exposure session.
Coastal Clothing – Essential Gear for Coastal Photography
Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so dressing appropriately is just as important as having the right camera gear. I always ensure I’m protected against wind, rain, and sudden temperature drops by wearing:
- Rab Mythic Ultra Jacket – Lightweight yet incredibly warm, ideal for chilly mornings and blustery coastal winds.
- Rab Cinder Downpour Jacket – Essential for waterproof protection without adding bulk, keeping me dry when sudden showers roll in.
- Waterproof Trousers – A necessity when shooting in wet conditions or kneeling on damp sand.
- Rab Baltoro Gloves – Insulated for warmth while maintaining dexterity for adjusting camera settings.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots – Providing grip and stability on slippery rocks and ensuring my feet stay dry during long shoots.
- Check to see My Full List
Dressing correctly means I can focus on capturing stunning images without being distracted by the elements.
Backup Batteries & Memory Cards – Cold & Humid Conditions Drain Power
Coastal locations drain batteries faster than expected due to humidity and cold winds. I always pack:
- At least two spare batteries, kept warm in an inside pocket to preserve charge.
- Multiple memory cards in a waterproof case, ensuring I never run out of storage while keeping them safe from moisture and sand.
- A portable power bank for emergency charging, particularly useful for extended shoots in remote locations.
Having ample power and memory ensures I can focus on composition and lighting without worrying about technical limitations.
Waterproof Backpack – Protecting Gear from Salt and Sand
A fully waterproof camera backpack is non-negotiable at the coast. Saltwater is incredibly corrosive, and a sudden wave can soak everything. I recommend:
- Roll-Top Closure – Provides extra water resistance, keeping gear dry even in heavy spray.
- Separate Dry Pouch – Keeps batteries, memory cards, and accessories protected from moisture.
- Padded Inserts – Safeguards cameras and lenses from knocks and bumps while navigating rocky shorelines.
- Ergonomic Design – Ensures comfort when carrying heavy gear over long distances, reducing strain during extended photography sessions.
By investing in a durable, waterproof backpack, I can confidently explore coastal landscapes without worrying about my equipment being compromised by the elements.
Lens Cloth – Keeping Your Lens Clear
Coastal environments can be harsh on your gear, with salt spray and mist frequently settling on your lens. A high-quality lens cloth is essential for keeping your images sharp and free of smudges. I always carry multiple microfibre cloths and lens wipes to ensure my glass remains pristine, even when shooting close to crashing waves.
Final Thoughts
Coastal photography in Whitby, Saltwick Bay, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea offers endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking images. Whether you prefer long-exposure seascapes, historic architecture, or the energy of a seaside town, these locations deliver time and time again. Being prepared with essential gear for coastal photography allows you to focus on creativity and composition while embracing the ever-changing
