South Beach Overlook

This photo was taken in Point Reyes National Seashore at the South Beach Overlook. To get there by car, take Sir Francis Drake Blvd and drive all the way to Point Reyes Lighthouse Visitor Center. You can then park here, and it will be a 10-minute walk to the GPS coordinates where this photo was taken. You'll want to face north towards the vast coastline.

To avoid the summer fog yet still enjoy the good weather, visit South Beach Overlook during the spring months. You're also bound to have wildflowers blooming in your foreground. In the winter, there shouldn't be much fog either. Check the weather conditions beforehand as this area gets very windy here. Don't forget to bring warm clothes as well.

Natural light helps bring out the colors of the sea and the cliffs, so I recommend visiting in the late afternoon through sunset.

Point Reyes National Seashore is an important place for wildlife—be mindful and don't leave trash behind.

A telephoto lens (85mm) will permit you to capture and compress the details of the vast beach before you. You can also zoom into the texture of the water and sea cliffs.

By incorporating a model, you help give scale to the long coastline and height of the cliffside, making the overall composition more dramatic and engaging.

To form interesting, puzzle-like shapes on the sand, wait for crashing waves to hit the shore.

Pay attention to how you align yourself with the coastline. If you position it in the center of your frame, it makes for a great leading line.

Visit the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse.

If you have time to drive for another hour, go hiking at Chimney Rock Trail Head or photograph some other interesting photos at Chimney Rock or Elephant Seal Overlook.