In this post, I’ll share my experiences and insights into capturing a Seaford Beach sunset with Newhaven Lighthouse as the stunning backdrop. From navigating the bustling beach to adjusting camera settings on the fly, this article offers a practical look at the pursuit of a perfect shot. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious about this unique perspective, read on to discover the art and challenges of this captivating endeavour.
Seaford Sunset Inspiration
I stumbled upon an awe-inspiring image in a Facebook photography group—an image that set my heart racing. It depicted a sight so rarely seen: a serene sunset behind the formidable Newhaven Lighthouse. Typically, Newhaven Lighthouse is the focal point during storms and tempestuous seas, not the backdrop for tranquil sunsets.
On the East Sussex coast, you often have to wait until winter to witness the setting sun align perfectly with an imposing subject like a pier. But, tucked away on a secluded stretch of Seaford beach, late summer held a secret. Here, I discovered the unique angle that would allow the sun’s descent to frame Newhaven Lighthouse in all its glory.
Seaford Sunset first attempt
September 2023 brought record-breaking heat to our shores. The early evenings were drenched in a hazy golden glow—a promise of potential sunsets that could rival legends. This was my chance to explore this extraordinary perspective from Seaford Beach.
My first attempt didn’t go precisely as planned, but it was a treasure trove of lessons. One striking observation was the surprising number of sunbathers on the usually serene Seaford beach. Compared to bustling Brighton or Bournemouth, Seaford typically enjoys solitude along its expansive esplanade. Yet, it lacked beachfront pubs, hotels, or restaurants, making it a well-kept secret. Parking proved a challenge, but this puzzle would be solved on my return visit.
Return Visit
Determined to seize this shot amidst the continuing heatwave, I ventured back to Seaford on a scorching Saturday. I knew it would be even busier, a stark contrast to my preference for desolation. Yet, the allure of adding this image to my East Sussex portfolio was irresistible. The weather conditions were perfect, as I had discovered by following an informative article and using its accompanying sunset predictor app.
I set up my camera in anticipation, attaching the 1.4 extender and a 100-400mm lens, giving me the power to zoom right into the heart of the action. Although some cropping might be necessary during post-processing, I was ready for the moment.
Sunset Camera Settings
My tripod remained in its bag as I needed to stay agile in the shifting sands. My go-to settings for handheld photography were in place: aperture priority, and with the 1.4 extender attached, a minimum aperture of F8. Although not ideal as the light dimmed, I set a minimum shutter speed of 1/500, with IS active on the lens and auto ISO to ensure a high shutter speed.
As the sun began its descent in the west, I had to dance along the shoreline, moving eastward to align perfectly with Newhaven Lighthouse.
This journey took me through a bustling beach, dodging sunbathers and fishing rods, all the while capturing bracketed shots—one for the highlights and the sun, and another for the shadows. The settings weren’t optimal, but time was of the essence. I needed a sharp image, even if it meant a bit of noise.
The Magic of Photography
What I adore about photography is that it not only gets you out into the world, allowing you to witness magnificent spectacles like this Seaford sunset, but it also immerses you completely. As I captured this breathtaking scene, the world around me dissolved, and I became one with the elements.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, I reached as far as I could go, my final shots slightly off-center but still capturing the essence of this majestic moment. With the remarkable DeNoise tool in Lightroom, even the noise from a high ISO becomes a non-issue when hand-holding the camera.
I’ll return, armed with experience and, hopefully, with fewer people on the beach. During low tide, I’ll venture further out, chasing the perfect alignment with Newhaven Lighthouse.
The pursuit of that one perfect shot continues, a testament to the relentless beauty of nature, even in the heart of a bustling beach.