Sand Dunes Photography Guide

Base Camera Settings

• ISO: 100–200 (Always shoot base ISO for max quality)

• Aperture: f/11–f/16 (Optimal depth & sharpness)

• Shutter: Adjust for light—use tripod for slow speeds

• Lenses:

  • Wide (16–35mm): Emphasize scale & sweep

  • Telephoto (70–200mm, 100-400mm, +): Isolate patterns, compress light & shadow - See the Photography Guide on Lens Compression

• Focus: Manual or single-point; focus 1/3 into the scene

Composition & Light

• Golden Hour: Long shadows reveal texture & curves

• Side Light: Best for showing form & dimension

• Backlight: Use for glow, translucence, drama

• Leading Lines: Use ridges, footprints, or wind patterns

• Minimalism: Embrace simplicity—less is often more

• Balance: Avoid clutter; let the dune’s shape lead

Environmental Prep (Stay Ready, Protect Your Gear)

• Wind Check: Always know wind direction before setting up

• Lens Care:

  • Avoid changing lenses in the open

  • Use a rocket blower—not cloth—for sand removal

• Gear:

  • Rain covers double as sand shields

  • Microfiber towels, sensor cleaning kit, weather-sealed body

  • Gaffer tape = dust-blocker

• Footprint Awareness: Scout first, shoot second—don’t step into your own frame

Common Pitfalls

• Overexposure of highlights: Watch your histogram—sand reflects strong light

• Flat midday light: Lacks contrast, kills mood

• Footprints in frame: Always plan your path

• Dirty filters/lenses: Check and clean constantly

In-Field Best Practices

• Golden Hour = best texture

• Blue Hour = dreamy, graphic shots

• Scout Midday: Mark compositions for later

• Use Tripod: Enables low ISO, clean focus stacking

• Position for Contrast: Align with sun angle

• Bracket Exposures: Especially in high dynamic range scenes

Post-Processing Tips

• Clarity & Texture: Boost selectively in dunes—not skies

• Dehaze: Great for pulling contrast in hazy scenes

• Local Dodging & Burning: Accentuate light play on ridges

• White Balance: Adjust for warmth or cool minimalism

• Lens Corrections: Enable to fix wide-angle distortion

Field Checklist

Before Shooting:

◻️ Clean lens & sensor

◻️ Check wind direction

◻️ Scout path to avoid footprints

◻️ Compose for light angle

◻️ Dial in base settings

During Shoot:

◻️ Shoot RAW

◻️ Watch for light/shadow shifts

◻️ Vary focal lengths

◻️ Stay aware of footprints & shifting light

◻️ Protect gear between shots

After Shooting:

◻️ Clean gear before packing

◻️ Backup images

◻️ Note locations for return visit

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