Bourne photographer and owner of Gordons Photographic, Gordon Cochran, reveals 7 top tips for capturing Instagram-worthy sunset photos

Have you ever wondered how people get such perfect photos of the sunset? A photographer has revealed his top tips for getting that Instagram-worthy shot.

Gordan Cochran, owner of Gordons Photographic on North Street in Bourne, has shared seven tricks which he and other shutterbugs use to capture “the natural beauty created during a sunset”.

He said: “To help Bourne locals take their sunset pictures from average to brilliant, here are my recommendations.”

1. Perfect your set-up

Turning up 30 minutes ahead of sunset can guarantee that everything is ready.

Whether that’s experimenting with angles, taking practice photos or playing around with your settings, Gordan says it will “allow you to truly make the most of the sunset.

2. Have a subject in the foreground

“One way to take your picture from average to outstanding is to incorporate a subject in the foreground, such as a tree or a person,” the photographer added.

“This creates a silhouette effect, giving your image a mysterious tone, as it contrasts with the vibrant colours of the sunset framing your image.”

However Gordan advises that less is more, so it might not be the best idea to flood the photo with multiple subjects that will compete for the viewer’s attention.

“A good sunset photo should always keep the focus on the sunset itself, with any additional subjects simply there to aid its beauty.”

3. Make the most of your camera’s capabilities – even on mobile

“Smartphones have the potential to take some beautiful sunset pictures worthy of being shared,” he said.

Features such as burst mode can capture multiple photos quickly, so there are more to choose from whereas the camera grid setting can help keep it straight and aid you in following the photography rule of thirds (where you don’t place the focal point of your image in the exact centre of the shot, but rather on one of the grid points).

4. Cater to your intended outcome

The photographer explained that using the correct dimensions for the platform you want to use it on can be important.

For example: for Instagram, take the photo in square mode,1080 x 1080 or landscape, and for social media story, take it in portrait mode.

5. Don’t stare

“Staring at the sun for an extended period of time can harm your eyes, but the damage isn’t exclusive to you, either,” he said.

“Without protection, lenses found in both your mobile and camera are also at risk of being harmed as the sun’s glare can magnify the intensity - this can be avoided by using a protective cover.”

6. Try editing

Although you don’t need to remove every imperfection, Gordan says there are apps and features that can help enhance your image.

“Playing with the vibrancy, exposure, shadows and contrast filters on your phone can help make the colours of your sunset pop.

“If you’re looking to take it up a notch, there are multiple apps that can help you remove unwanted features, such as lens flairs, from your shot.”

For professional use, the photographer suggests using Photoshop or other software to alter your sunset images.

7. Print it

Once you’ve captured your photo, instead of letting it sit on your camera roll or memory card to be forgotten about Gordan says to consider printing it to showcase your photography skills and use it to decorate your home.

“Our poster printing service means that you can create a large, eye-catching display on Fujifilm Satin Inkjet Paper that will be sure to start a conversation with visitors while reminding you of your sunset experience each time you walk past it.”

If you use these tips to take a fantastic photo, email it to: news@lincsonline.co.uk