Portobello Sunset

Portobello is Edinburgh’s seaside suburb. This sandy stretch runs for 2 kilometres with a long beach boulevard accompanying a large portion of it. Installed along the shorefront are large timber groynes which help prevent sand erosion along the shore. The groynes elegantly slope into the ocean and feature ringed marker posts at the end (The posts now have large numbers on them). Access could not be easier, a short stroll from parking found on the streets that lead to the shore beyond the High Street. Portobello is also well connected to the city centre via bus and cycle routes.

This sunset shot is taken on a mid-tide. If the tide is any lower than this then the last upright post of the groyne creates a visual block in the image. It’s more of a flowing composition when the posts gradually disappear into the ocean. Sunsets like this are obviously few and far between, but it is a great place to shoot in all conditions. A long exposure smooths the incoming tide and accentuates a feeling of calm.