Location guide
Beach and pool swimwear shoots for creators
Swimwear sets are some of the easiest content to promote, because they're safe for work and they look like summer. I've shot them on Gold Coast beaches, Sunshine Coast sand at dusk and private pools for swimwear labels. Here's what works.
Why swimwear content earns its place
Swimwear sits right on the line your promo channels allow. It works on Instagram, it works on X, and it gives fans a taste of your style without giving away your paid content. A good swimwear set can feed your promo accounts for weeks.
Beach or pool?
Beaches
Big skies, waves, wet sand, endless space. The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast are on my doorstep and give completely different moods: bright and glossy in the morning, soft and moody as the sun goes down. Some of my favourite twilight beach sets were lit with a portable strobe to hold detail as the sky turned dark.
Pools
Privacy and control. A private pool at your home, an Airbnb or a resort lets us shoot more revealing looks, wet hair and gowns floating in the water. Clean architecture around a pool gives a high end, commercial look, the same look swimwear brands pay for.
Timing is everything
Midday sun is harsh and makes everyone squint. We shoot in the first two hours after sunrise or the last two before sunset. The light is warmer, the beaches are quieter and you get that golden glow on your skin.
Outfits
- Bring a mix of cuts: high waisted, string, one piece, and one statement colour
- Pick pieces that show off what you love about your body, and any tattoos you want featured
- A sheer cover up or gown gives you movement shots in the wind or water
- Bring a robe and towel for between sets
Tattoos are a feature
If you have ink, let's build sets around it. A high waisted bikini shows off a thigh piece, a one piece with an open back shows off back work. Tattoos also make your content instantly recognisable, which helps your brand.
Privacy and the rules
Public beaches are for swimwear and lifestyle sets. Anything more revealing moves to a private pool or property with permission. Some councils need a permit for commercial shoots, and I check that for each location before we go. More on this on the outdoor glamour page.
Planning a trip somewhere with a pool and a view? Have a look at destination shoots.
Quick answers
What happens if the weather turns?
We reschedule at no cost, or move to an indoor or pool location if you prefer.
Do you need a permit to shoot at the beach?
Some councils require one for commercial photography. I check each location and include any permit cost in the quote.