Open the window, or step outside. Feel that scorching sun and sticky humidity? No? That's because the weather is actually pleasant, and should remain so for the next two or three months. These are often the only weeks when we stop complaining about the weather, and instead enjoy the wonderful winter climate, hoping it never leaves us. The beautiful breeze and satisfying sunshine lure us all to the sandy shores of the Emirates' beaches, where many of us become rather trigger happy with our cameras, tripods and selfie sticks.
There are scores of social-media-worthy photography opportunities at the beach. From romantic words etched into the sand to seashells arranged in heart shapes, the UAE’s shores provide plentiful props and places for picturesque snaps. These are the kinds of photos you can add to your Snapchat or print out for your wall at home. Before I get into the nitty gritty, here are my top tips: keep it lighthearted, enjoy the moments both on- and off-screen, and stay candid.
Contrary to popular thought, what you wear isn’t of the utmost importance when snapping snazzy beach photographs. Images should come across as natural, and not too contrived. It should look like you’re on an average beach outing, not like you’ve gone to the beach for the sole reason that it makes for a nice photo shoot backdrop. If it looks like you’ve left your car on and sprinted to the sand for a quick “outfit of the day” post pit stop, it will come across in the image.
That’s not to say you shouldn’t give any thought to your outfit. Simply dress in what you would wear on a normal beach day – a pretty kaftan, cotton jumpsuit or cute shorts-and-tee combination will do, if you’d rather not show off your swimsuit to all and sundry on social media.
Many assume that accessories are irrelevant for beach days, but I disagree. Floppy sun hats, long beaded necklaces and jingly anklets make nice add-ons for beachwear. It’s also OK to pack more than one outfit for your day at the beach – you never know when a spare kimono or playsuit might come in handy.
If your photo reel will end up on social media, then please keep your sultry photos to a minimum – instead, have more fun with the environment you’re in. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has had enough of the Victoria’s Secret model-esque “come hither” pose that many female beachgoers like to recreate. Rather than that, why not have a friend bury your legs in the sand and create a mermaid tail at your feet, or walk up to the water and snap an image just as the frothy bit hits your pedicured toes? If you have your lunch set up picnic-style, snap a quick photo, and if you’re buried in a good book, have a friend take a picture from behind the back of your head. Be fun and artsy, and don’t over-think it. Most importantly, don’t let the need to get cool photographs overshadow your fun beach outing.
It’s worth mentioning one trendy prop that photographs brilliantly, and will add to your laughs. Though it may be more suited to swimming pools, if you really want to make a serious splash on social media, splurge on a giant floatie. I’m sure you’ve seen them on your Instagram feeds, in flamingo, swan and even pizza-slice shapes. They’ve become must-pack items for those vacationing to Bali or the Maldives, and are available in Dubai at The Fashion Vault and The Design Shop by S*uce. Just don’t come up short with a more budget-friendly traditional rectangular float – that’s far too basic.
hlodi@thenational.ae
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