What to Wear for a Beach Photoshoot in Boracay: A Travel Photographer's Guide
Boracay is one of the most photogenic islands I've ever visited. With its powder-soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, tropical palm trees, and unforgettable sunsets, it's easy to understand why so many travelers dream of having their photos taken there.
As a New York City–based photographer, I had the opportunity to visit Boracay and photograph two beautiful beach sessions during my trip—one at sunrise and another at sunset. Those experiences allowed me to see the island in two completely different ways, and they confirmed something I often tell people planning beach portraits anywhere in the world: timing is just as important as choosing the right outfit.
Whether you're planning a couples session, family vacation portraits, engagement photos, honeymoon memories, or simply want beautiful photographs to remember your trip, here are my favorite recommendations.
Why I Love Sunrise Photoshoots in Boracay
If I had to choose between sunrise and sunset, sunrise would probably win.
Of course, one of the biggest advantages is having fewer people on the beach. White Beach, especially Station 1, is incredibly peaceful early in the morning, allowing you to enjoy one of Boracay's most famous locations before it fills with visitors.
But my favorite reason is actually the light.
Since the sun rises on the opposite side of White Beach, the beach is illuminated with soft, even morning light. People don't have to constantly squint or wear sunglasses, and the gentle light creates natural expressions without harsh shadows around the eyes. As the sun climbs higher into the sky later in the morning, it becomes much more difficult to comfortably face the light, even though that's often the direction that creates the most beautiful portraits.
For me, sunrise simply produces more relaxed photographs, softer colors, and a calmer atmosphere.
What to Wear for Your Boracay Photoshoot
One piece of advice remains the same whether I'm photographing people in Boracay, Bali, Thailand, or anywhere else by the ocean:
Choose light, timeless colors.
White, ivory, cream, beige, blush, soft blue, sage green, and other pastel shades beautifully complement the white sand, turquoise water, and blue skies without competing with the scenery.
For women, flowy dresses and skirts photograph beautifully because they move naturally with the ocean breeze, adding elegance and movement to every image.
For men, linen pants or shorts paired with a white or neutral shirt create a relaxed look that never goes out of style.
If you'd like to add more color, jewel tones like emerald or sapphire can also look stunning against the tropical backdrop.
Keep Your Outfits Simple
Boracay is already colorful enough.
I recommend avoiding large logos, bold graphics, and busy patterns that can distract from the natural beauty of the island.
If you're taking photos with your partner or family, coordinate your outfits instead of matching exactly. A cohesive color palette always photographs more naturally.
Bring a Second Outfit
One of my favorite recommendations is bringing a second outfit.
You might begin your session wearing a flowy dress or a more elegant outfit and later change into your swimsuit paired with a lightweight beach cover-up or sheer robe. It's an easy way to create two completely different styles during one session and add more variety to your gallery.
Avoid Midday Photos
If possible, I recommend avoiding the middle of the day.
By late morning, the tropical sun becomes very strong, creating harsh shadows under the eyes and nose—something photographers often jokingly call "panda eyes." The light can also make it uncomfortable to keep your eyes open while facing the camera.
Whenever possible, schedule your session during sunrise or sunset for the most flattering light.
My Favorite Sunrise Locations
White Beach (Station 1)
This would always be my first choice.
During sunrise, White Beach is peaceful, beautifully lit, and almost empty compared to the rest of the day. The traditional boats resting along the shoreline, the glowing white sand, and the vibrant turquoise water create the classic Boracay scenery that so many people fall in love with.
If you're hoping for clean photographs without crowds in the background, this is the perfect time to visit.
Diniwid Beach
After exploring Station 1, I highly recommend walking over to nearby Diniwid Beach.
Its rocky shoreline, palm trees, and quieter atmosphere create a completely different look while still being just a short walk away. It's a wonderful place to add variety to your photos.
Bulabog Beach
Bulabog Beach has a completely different personality from White Beach, and I genuinely enjoyed spending time there.
Located on the eastern side of the island, it's where the sun rises each morning, making it a wonderful place to watch the first light of the day. During low tide, boats rest directly on the sand, allowing you to get surprisingly close for unique photographs.
If you're lucky, you may even spot a few experienced kite surfers catching the first wind of the morning. Unlike later in the day, when the beach becomes much busier, sunrise feels calm and peaceful.
One of my favorite spots is the famous leaning palm tree. During the day, it's a popular photo location, but in the early morning you can often enjoy it without waiting in line.
If you visit Bulabog Beach, one small request: please watch where you step. During low tide, beautiful starfish can often be found resting in the shallow water and sand. Being mindful of the marine life helps preserve the beauty of this incredible island.
Sunset on White Beach
Sunset in Boracay is famous around the world—and for good reason.
Golden light reflects across the ocean, the iconic boats create beautiful silhouettes, and the atmosphere becomes incredibly lively.
The only thing to remember is that sunset is also the busiest time of day.
Fortunately, photographing in crowded places is something I'm very familiar with. As a photographer based in New York City, I regularly work in iconic locations like Times Square, where crowds are simply part of the experience. Learning how to work around people, find clean backgrounds, and capture beautiful moments in busy places has become one of my specialties.
Sometimes that means moving quickly between locations or waiting just a few seconds for the perfect opening—but the results are always worth it.
Bring a Piece of Boracay Home
During my visit, I also created a collection of fine art photographs showcasing the beauty of Boracay beyond portraits. If this incredible island holds a special place in your heart, I invite you to explore my Boracay Fine Art Print Collection, where you'll find museum-quality prints featuring the island's beaches, tropical scenery, and unforgettable coastal landscapes.
Whether you're looking for artwork to remember your own trip or simply love tropical destinations, I hope these photographs bring a little piece of Boracay into your home.
Looking for a Travel Photographer?
Although I'm based in New York City, I'm also available for travel photography around the world.
Whether you're planning a family vacation, honeymoon, engagement, destination celebration, anniversary trip, or simply want beautiful photographs to remember your travels, I'd love to help tell your story through timeless images.
You can explore my portfolio, see examples of my previous travel photography, and get in touch through my website. I'd love to hear about your next adventure.