location-photo
camera
len
Canon EOS 80D
Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III
Shutter Speed
1/1600 sec
Aperture
f/4.5
Focal Length
135mm
ISO
160

Rattray Head Lighthouse on North Sea

avatar
@aontheroad
Capture the blue waves breaking against the shore of this unexpected waterfront location. In the middle of the sea, this lighthouse stands out on its own — almost creating a magical vibe.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Easy
Accessbility
Public Location

Hours

Anytime

Fee

Free

Pack

  • Telephoto lens (135mm)
  • Tripod
  • Model

How to get there

N57° 36' 35.8992"W1° 49' 24.6"
I took the photo on the sand dunes looking east onto the North Sea and Rattray Head Lighthouse. Driving to the lighthouse is the only way to get access to it. Follow the GPS coordinates and park along the pathway before the beach.

Tips

When to go

Best season

All months

Best time

Morning, Mid-day, Late afternoon
You can photograph the lighthouse any month of year.
Daytime is the best time to find similar lighting conditions. 10 or 11AM are my personal recommendations for the best light. Sunset would also be amazing here!

Field tips

I highly recommend a telephoto lens (135mm) to bring out the scale of the lighthouse.
To create a sense of symmetry, center your model and the lighthouse in the center of your frame.
A pop of color, like a brightly colored scarf, will attract the eyes to the lighthouse and model.

Current weather

Rattray
Rain, Partially cloudy
47o
F
Thu
48o
41o
Fri
48o
46o
Sat
50o
45o
Sun
49o
40o
Mon
49o
43o

Blue Hour

07:41
47o
Rain, Partially cloudy

Sunrise

08:30
47o
Rain, Partially cloudy

Golden Hour

14:03
47o
Rain, Partially cloudy

Sunset

15:27
47o
Rain, Partially cloudy

Do nearby

If you like eerie sites, visit the Peterhead Prison Museum. This old prison has a rich, and often unsettling, history.
Pennan and Crovie are two nearby towns that offer some great photo opportunities.

Locations nearby

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