Shooting in the Desert or Dunes

Here are some Tips and Tricks for shooting in the desert or dunes:

Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on the details. Remember not to change lenses if it is windy as sand will get everywhere including inside your camera.  This is why I recommend starting with telephoto as this gives the greatest flexibility while minimizing potential damage to your equipment.

Search for texture or lines and patterns in the sand created by wind and/or for depth in layering the sand dunes into the distance.

Use side light to create contrast and help the patterns stand out. Look for shadows and contrast to help accentuate the dunes and patterns. When shooting in bright light you may want to use a polarized filter to cut down the glare.

Look for clean sand with no footprints.  This means you may have to hike out a bit.  You will need to get out and explore for those magical shots and you don’t want someone’s footprints to ruin your photo.

Use a tripod and lower your iso as far as you can for optimum shots.  This is especially true at sunrise and sunset but also anytime you are trying to capture motion.  Shooting long exposures on a windy day is ideal for capturing the motion of the dunes and the clouds.

Bring a lens blower and cleaning cloths with you as dust will get on your lenses.  Try to check this often as it can ruin a shot.  Sand has a tendency to stick to the lens and always remember to blow it off using a blower first, never wipe your lens if you suspect there is sand or dirt present.

Shoot sunrise or sunset for the most brilliant colors and try to get light reflections off the sand.

Always know where you are and how to get back to your transportation and always have plenty of food and water with you.  I use a Garmin GPS for navigation and always have a headlamp in case I am out well after dark.