By Raghav | | August 10, 2026

How I Mastered Night Photography at Chennai’s Marina Beach

On a balmy evening in January 2021, I found myself standing at Marina Beach, the air filled with the scent of the sea and the sound of waves crashing against the shore. It was during a client shoot for a couple, Arun and Meera, who wanted something unique for their pre-wedding album. Little did I know that this would be the night that transformed my approach to night photography forever. As the sun dipped below the horizon, I faced the challenge of capturing the beauty of the beach under the shimmering stars, and in doing so, I learned invaluable lessons that I still apply today.

The Challenge of Low Light

When I first started exploring night photography, I often felt overwhelmed by the lack of available light. The first time I attempted a night shoot at Marina Beach, way back in 2018, I used my trusty Nikon D750 with a 50mm f/1.8 lens. However, I didn’t fully understand how to manipulate my settings. I ended up with grainy images that looked nothing like what I envisioned. It was a humbling experience that made me realize the importance of mastering camera settings.

Understanding Exposure

During that 2018 shoot, I set my ISO at a mere 800, and my shutter speed was too fast at 1/125. The aperture was wide open at f/1.8, but I still ended up with dark images. It was only after reviewing my photos on my laptop that I saw the mistakes I’d made. I had missed the opportunity to capture the soft glow of the evening lights along the shoreline.

Finding the Right Settings

Fast forward to the January 2021 shoot with Arun and Meera, I was determined to get it right. This time, I set my ISO to 1600, used a shutter speed of 1/60, and adjusted the aperture to f/4. This combination allowed me to maintain clarity while capturing the beautiful ambient light from nearby stalls and street lamps. The difference was night and day; I was finally able to showcase the romantic atmosphere of Marina Beach.

Planning for the Perfect Shot

One of the key elements of successful night photography is preparation. Before the shoot, I always scout the location and determine the best angles and settings. For Marina Beach, I discovered that the best time for shooting is right after sunset, around 6:30 PM, when the sky transitions into a deep blue and the lights come alive. Parking is available near the entrance, but it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is crucial.

Using the Right Gear

For night photography, having the right gear makes a world of difference. On that January evening, I used my Nikon Z6 with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, which allowed me to zoom in on details and create stunning bokeh effects with the street lamps. A sturdy tripod was essential for stabilizing my shots, especially at slower shutter speeds. I also relied on my trusty remote shutter release to minimize any camera shake.

Post-Processing: Bringing Your Vision to Life

After capturing the images, the next step was editing. I used Adobe Lightroom to enhance the colors and contrast of the photos. One particular shot of Arun and Meera silhouetted against the shimmering ocean required some careful adjustments. Here’s what I did:

• Increased exposure by +0.5
• Boosted contrast to +30
• Adjusted shadows to +20 for detail
• Applied a slight vignette to focus on the couple

The end result was breathtaking, with the couple perfectly framed against the colorful lights and the darkening sky. It was a far cry from my first attempts at night photography, and it showed me just how far I had come.

Mistakes I Made

Reflecting on my journey, several mistakes stand out that taught me valuable lessons. One of my biggest errors occurred during a December 2019 shoot at the same beach. I had forgotten to bring a lens hood, which resulted in lens flare from the streetlights during my shots. The images were ruined, and I had to reschedule the shoot for another evening. This taught me to always double-check my gear before heading out. Now, I have a checklist that I follow to ensure I’m fully equipped for every shoot.

Location Guide: Marina Beach

Marina Beach is a sprawling area, and knowing where to shoot can make all the difference. Here are some insider tips that I’ve gathered over the years:

Best Spots

The area near the Kottai Eswaran Temple offers unique architecture and a picturesque backdrop. The contrast between the temple and the sea makes for compelling compositions. Also, the stretch near the Anna Memorial is ideal for capturing the vibrant life around the beach.

Timing Your Visit

As mentioned, the best time to shoot is just after sunset. Arriving by 6 PM gives you enough time to set up and experiment with different angles before the light fades completely. On weekends, the beach can get crowded, so if you prefer a quieter setting, aim for a weekday shoot.

Permissions and Regulations

While Marina Beach is generally open to photographers, it’s essential to be respectful of the space and its visitors. If you plan on using a drone, make sure to obtain the necessary permissions from local authorities, as regulations can change frequently.

Final Thoughts

Night photography at Marina Beach has become one of my favorite aspects of my work. The serene beauty of the beach at night offers endless opportunities for creativity and expression. Each shoot not only enhances my skills but also deepens my appreciation for Chennai’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, embracing the challenges of night photography will undoubtedly help you grow.

With over 8 years of experience in wedding, portrait, and travel photography, I specialize in capturing the essence of moments in Chennai, India. I find joy in sharing my knowledge and helping others improve their photography skills.