By Raghav | | June 3, 2026

What I Learned from 10 Sunset Shoots in June 2026

On June 1, 2026, I found myself perched on the rocky shoreline of Mahabalipuram, the sun painting the sky in stunning hues of orange and pink. As I adjusted my Nikon Z6 II, I couldn’t help but reflect on the lessons I had gathered from the ten stunning sunset shoots I’d undertaken throughout the month. Each shoot was a unique experience, filled with challenges, triumphs, and, most importantly, valuable insights for any photographer looking to master the elusive sunset shot.

Understanding the Golden Hour

One of the first lessons I learned during my sunset shoots is the importance of timing. On June 5, while shooting at the serene Covelong Beach, I made a rookie mistake by arriving too late. By the time I set up my gear, the vibrant colors had already started to fade into a dull grey. I had my Nikon D7500 set to ISO 100 and f/8, but it was too little too late. I learned that arriving 30 minutes before sunset allows for not only the beautiful golden hour light but also the chance to scout locations and compose the perfect shot.

Best Locations for Sunset Photography

Chennai has some breathtaking spots for sunset photography. Here are two of my favorites:

• Mahabalipuram: The ancient temples and rock formations provide a stunning backdrop. The beach is accessible, and parking is available. Aim to arrive around 5:30 PM for a 6:15 PM sunset.
• Marina Beach: While it can be crowded, the wide expanse of sand allows for various compositions. I recommend shooting from the southern end near the fishing boats for an authentic Chennai vibe. Parking can be tricky, so consider using public transport if possible.

Equipment and Settings That Work

My gear has evolved with my experience, and for sunset shots, I rely heavily on my Nikon Z6 II and Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. On June 10, while at Elliot’s Beach, I captured a striking shot with the following settings: ISO 200, f/11, and a shutter speed of 1/125 seconds. The resulting image had incredible detail, and the colors were rich and vibrant.

Using Filters for Enhanced Effects

Another lesson learned was the value of using ND (Neutral Density) filters. On June 15, at the serene shores of Kottivakkam, I used a 3-stop ND filter to smooth out the waves in my long exposure shot. I set my camera to f/16 and used a shutter speed of 1/15 seconds. The result was a stunning sunset with silky water, and the colors popped even more against the vibrant clouds.

Mistakes I Made

Throughout the month, I encountered several hiccups that tested my skills as a photographer. One significant mistake occurred on June 20 at Besant Nagar Beach. I had been so focused on getting the perfect composition that I neglected to check my memory card. As I pressed the shutter for what I thought would be the best shot of the month, my camera displayed an error message: “No Card.” Frustration washed over me.

This incident taught me the hard way about the importance of preparation. Now, I always double-check my gear the night before a shoot, ensuring I have enough space on my cards and a fully charged battery. A simple checklist has become a part of my routine now, saving me from future mishaps.

Editing and Post-Processing Tips

After capturing the shots, post-processing plays a critical role in achieving that perfect sunset image. I typically use Adobe Lightroom for editing, focusing on adjusting the highlights and shadows to bring out the vibrant colors. On June 25, I edited a photo captured at Mahabalipuram with settings adjusted to +30 for highlights, -20 for shadows, and a slight S-curve on the tone curve to enhance contrast. The final image was a testament to the beauty of that sunset, with colors that felt alive.

Building Relationships with Locals

While shooting at these picturesque locations, I have found that building relationships with local vendors and fishermen can add depth to my work. On June 28, while shooting at Marina, I struck up a conversation with a local fisherman named Ravi. He shared stories about the sea and invited me to join him on his fishing boat at sunrise. This connection not only enriched my understanding of the area but also led to a unique opportunity for a different kind of shoot.

Capturing Authentic Moments

On June 30, I took Ravi up on his offer, and the experience was transformative. The sunrise shoot on his boat provided a completely different perspective of Chennai’s coastal life. I shot portraits of him as he cast his net while the sun rose behind him, capturing the essence of his daily life against the stunning backdrop of dawn. These authentic moments are often what resonate most with viewers, and I encourage fellow photographers to seek out similar connections.

Final Thoughts and Takeaways

As June came to a close, I realized that each sunset shoot had taught me something invaluable. Timing, preparation, equipment knowledge, and building relationships are all fundamental aspects that contribute to a successful photography experience. I’ve come to appreciate that every location holds its own story, waiting for a photographer to tell it through their lens.

So, whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting, remember to embrace each shoot as a chance to learn and grow. The sunsets in Chennai are magnificent, but the true beauty lies in the moments and connections we create along the way.

As a professional photographer based in Chennai with over eight years of experience in wedding, portrait, and travel photography, I’ve dedicated my career to capturing the beauty of Tamil Nadu. My journey has been filled with learning and growth, and I look forward to sharing more insights to help fellow photographers thrive.