How to Photograph Sunrises - Top Tips For Sunrise Photography

To get a great photograph of a sunrise you need to set the alarm and rise before dawn. Stunning shots will involve a lot of preparation beforehand to make sure you're in the right place, at the right time, with the right equipment.

Scout out suitable locations

Photography Tips

You're going to want to spend the least amount of time possible finding the right spot - get a compass, a map, walking boots and go out before the day you intend to take your pictures to find yourself the best spot to catch the sunrise. That way you can have longer in bed before you need to get up.

How to Photograph Sunrises - Top Tips For Sunrise Photography

Get up early

If sunrise is at 5am, you're going to want to be at the spot at least half an hour before to catch the early light and make sure you don't miss anything.

Silhouettes

You can make great silhouette effects using the sun as backlighting. Think about where the sun is going to rise and try to frame an object as a point of foreground interest for extra impact.

Essential camera gear for sunrises

Tripod or support

Early mornings mean low light and long shutter speeds, so a steady camera is essential. Take a tripod or find something to support your camera on and use your self-timer or cable release to avoid camera shake whilst pressing the shutter.

Filters

A simple ND grad filter to help balance the exposure, or a sunset filter to enhance colour

Thermals

If it was cold when you went to bed it's going to be even colder when you wake up

Alarm clock

You're going to have to get up early to catch the sun.

How to Photograph Sunrises - Top Tips For Sunrise Photography

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