9 tips for outdoor photography in Dubai

A girl in front of Burj Dubai

Outdoor photography in Dubai can be a challenging and rewarding experience. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for capturing stunning images, there are plenty of tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time behind the lens.

In this article, you can see 9 of the most important tips about outdoor photography in Dubai:

1- Golden time of photography

2- Explore the city before shooting

3- Search about Dubai’s culture to have different photos

4- Using the right lenses for different locations

5- Use a tripod to avoid camera shake

6- Post processing

7- Carrying a map and GPS for new places

8- Be creative in your work

9- Have fun during the photography

1-Golden time for photography in Dubai

Timing is everything. One of the most important things to keep in mind when photographing outdoor scenes in Dubai is the timing of your shots. The best time to take pictures is during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset and the hour after sunrise.

During this time, the light is soft and warm, which can create beautiful, natural-looking images. This is also the time of the day when the shadows are longer and can create more dramatic images. Get to know your camera: Before you set out on your photography adventure, make sure you are familiar with your camera’s settings and controls. This will help you to quickly adjust your settings as the lighting conditions change, and ensure that you are capturing the best possible images. Knowing your camera well will also allow you to shoot in manual mode and have more control over your final image.

2-Explore the city before shooting

Dubai is a city full of surprises, and the best way to discover its hidden gems is to explore on foot. Take a walk around the different neighborhoods, and look for interesting angles and perspectives to photograph. This can include the traditional souks, the modern architecture, and the various landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab, and the Palm Jumeirah.

Be prepared for the weather: Dubai can be hot and humid, so make sure you stay hydrated and bring plenty of water with you. Also, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat and using sunscreen. Remember that the heat and humidity can also affect your equipment, so be sure to keep it protected and in good working condition.

3-Search about the culture for different photos:

Dubai is a melting pot of different cultures and its vibrant street life is a great subject for photography. Attract traditional markets, street food and people.


Due to the fact that Dubai is a tourist and expatriate city, it also hosts many festivals and events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Dubai Food Festival, which provide great opportunities to capture candid images of people in action. to enjoy
You can see different festivals and ceremonies of different cultures at different times.

4-Use the proper lenses for different situations:

Different lenses can be used to create different effects in images. For a professional photographer, it is important what lens you use.
Don’t forget that if you remove the lens from your camera you will only capture a white light. Because a good lens on a normal camera can make the quality much better and the photos more professional and vice versa!

For example, a wide-angle lens is great for capturing panoramic views, while a telephoto lens is ideal for capturing close-up details. A fisheye lens can also be used to create unique and creative images, while a macro lens is great for taking close-up shots of small objects.

5-Use a tripod to eliminate camera shake:

A tripod is a must-have for outdoor photography, as it will help you to keep your camera steady and avoid camera shake.

A photographer shooting the landscape at night with the help of a tripod
It is better to use a tripod to eliminate camera shake

It will also help you to take longer exposures without having to worry about camera movement. This is particularly important when shooting at night, or when trying to capture sharp images of moving objects.

6-Use Lightroom to adjust the brightness of photos:

Once you’ve captured your images, it’s important to spend time post-processing them to bring out the best in your photos.

Lightroom program to edit the light of a girl's photo

Experiment with different editing techniques such as adjusting the exposure, contrast, and color balance to create the perfect image. This can include using software such as Lightroom or Photoshop to edit your images, and also using presets and actions to speed up your workflow.

7-Make sure you are in a safe position during shooting :

When you are out in the city, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary safety precautions.

GPS on the phone

This can include carrying a map or GPS device, and also letting someone know where you will be and when you expect to return. It’s also important to be aware of the local laws and customs, and to respect the privacy of individuals and properties.

8-Be creative in photography:

One of the most important things to remember when photographing in Dubai is to be creative and think outside the box.

The modern parts of Dubai along with the surrounding deserts as well as the old texture of the city are all placed in such a way that you as a photographer can record your most creative photos. Experiment with different angles and perspectives and don’t be afraid to try new things. This can include playing with reflections, shooting through objects, or using a drone to take aerial photos.

9-Have fun and make good memories:

Last but not least, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Photography is a hobby, and it should be enjoyable and not stressful. Take your time, and be patient, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. try to experience different ideas every time and make goof memories for your group.

The more you practice, the better your photos will become.

In conclusion, outdoor photography in Dubai can be an exciting and rewarding experience, and with the right approach and a little bit of creativity, you can capture stunning images that will last a lifetime.

Remember to be prepared, plan ahead, and most importantly, have fun! With the right techniques, you can capture the unique beauty of Dubai and create photographs that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Outdoor photography in Dubai offers a diverse range of subjects and locations to capture. From the iconic skyline of the city to the vast deserts, photographers can find endless inspiration.

A man and a woman in the deserts of Dubai at sunset

The city’s modern architecture, luxurious resorts, and vibrant culture provide a unique backdrop for portrait and street photography. The desert landscape, with its dunes and camels, offers a chance for nature and adventure photography.

The vantage points like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah provide breathtaking views for landscape photography.

Furthermore, the city’s year-round sunny weather makes it a perfect destination for outdoor photography. The golden hour and sunset provide stunning lighting for photographers to capture the city’s beauty. Overall, Dubai is a dream destination for photographers of all levels, offering a wide range of subjects and locations to explore and capture.

“Don’t miss out on capturing the beauty of Dubai with professional photography! Book your outdoor photography session today and make memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us now to schedule your shoot and take the first step towards stunning photos of your trip to Dubai.”

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