The Ultimate 2024 El Matador Beach Photoshoot Guide
Photo by Megan W Photography
Welcome to the ultimate guide to El Matador Beach photoshoots!
I’m Megan Moore, a born and raised Malibu local, and I just so happen to live a mere 5 minutes from this iconic Malibu beach.
In this article, I will uncover the secrets to creating unforgettable moments captured in stunning photographs. Whether you're a professional photographer looking for inspiration or someone looking for the perfect place to capture memories, El Matador Beach offers a breathtaking backdrop that will leave you mesmerized.
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Table of Contents
Nearby Attractions
Planning Your El Matador Beach Photoshoot
Parking
Permits
Capturing the Beauty of El Matador at different times of day
Where to Find El Matador
32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Nestled along the rugged coast of Malibu, California, El Matador Beach boasts dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The picturesque scenery and unspoiled beauty make it a dream destination for anyone. From romantic sunset portraits to ethereal shots against the iconic rock formations, El Matador Beach provides endless opportunities for capturing magical moments.
Nearby attractions
Restaurants
Spruzzo’s Italian Restaurant (a favorite of mine since early childhood)
Places to Stay
Photo by Megan W Photography
Why Choose El Matador Beach for a Photoshoot?
If you’ve seen anything about Malibu on social media recently, it’s probably been about El Matador beach, and for good reason. It’s breathtaking rock formations are a sight to behold. There are so many different backdrops you can achieve at this single beach. El Matador is definitely the most iconic beach in Malibu for Photoshoots.
Natural Beauty: El Matador is a haven of natural beauty. Its dramatic cliffs, towering sea stacks, and hidden sea caves set the stage for a truly captivating photoshoot. Whether you're aiming for ethereal beach portraits, dramatic silhouettes against the setting sun, or artistic shots that play with light and shadow, this beach's diverse topography provides an array of possibilities.
Variety: The beach provides a diverse range of settings, from sandy shores to rocky outcrops, allowing for a wide array of shots in a single location.
Sunset Splendor: El Matador Beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets. The warm, golden hues of the setting sun paint the sky and sea, offering an enchanting backdrop for your photos. Sunsets are best viewed during fall and winter.
Accessibility: It’s proximity to Los Angeles and Ventura make El Matador beach an easy destination to get to. Parking is limited, and it can get extremely crowded, so time your photoshoot correctly and you shouldn’t have an issue.
Photo by Megan W Photography
Planning Your El Matador Beach Photoshoot
If you’ve never been to El Matador, you might be shocked by how much of a tourist attraction it is. Social media paints it as this hidden gem, but during the weekends, especially in the summer time, it’s packed with beach goers and people trying to get the perfect picture. You’ll want to keep a few things in mind when planning your beach Photoshoot at El Matador.
Parking: Parking is very limited. The parking lot is small, and they close it once it gets full. It can get crazy trying to park during the summer. There are some spots along PCH to park but I do not recommend it. Parking along PCH is dangerous and if you’re not careful where you park, you could get a ticket. I suggest having someone drop you off if you want to have a Photoshoot at El Matador during the summer or on the weekends.
Parking Cost: $10 all day parking fee or $3 per hour parking fee.
Permits: Technically, you do need a permit if you want to do a photoshoot at El Matador. You can contact the Permit Department for more information about obtaining a photography permit.
The permitting department only issues one photography permit per location per day, so act fast!
Tides: As a Malibu based Photographer, who photographs at the beach a lot, I always make sure to check the tides as soon as a client reaches out to me. El Matador is best accessed at mid to low tides. Anything above a 5ft tide can get tricky and it’s not worth risking your safety or your photographers gear.
Tides in the negatives and up to 4ft are the best.
Check out this Tide Charts website to get accurate tide heights and times. For mobile tide chart apps, my favorite is Tides.
Crowds: El Matador beach gets extremely crowded during the summer, and the weekends are busy year round. The best time to visit El Matador is in the Fall, Winter, and Spring months when the summer crowds have gone away. You’ll have a more intimate photoshoot without having to worry about avoiding everyone and their mom at the beach.
Avoid El Matador on the weekends if you can.
Footwear: The rocky cliffs leading down the the beach are well maintained, but they’re still something to keep in mind. It’s basically dirt going straight downhill with a couple of steep staircases. Wear shoes that are sturdy enough to walk up and down the cliff trail/stairs. However, you are going to be taking photos down at the beach, and there’s a high probability you will get your feet wet. I always tell my clients to wear shoes they can easily take on and off.
These Sketchers Sandals are my favorite beach sandals for El Matador.
Accessibility: El Matador is not for those with severe physical disabilities or mobility issues. If you have difficulties walking up and down stairs and hiking steep trails, you might want to skip this location. Keep an eye on young children if you choose to bring them, and make sure your shoes have some sort of tread to help you on the dirt path.
Image by Anh Tuan To
Essential Equipment for a Successful El Matador Beach Photoshoot
A successful beach photoshoot at El Matador Beach, or any coastal location, relies not only on your creative vision but also on having the right equipment to capture the beauty of the setting effectively. Here are the essential tools and gear I bring to every photoshoot at El Matador:
Camera and Lenses: Your choice of camera and lenses is paramount. A high-quality DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses gives you the versatility to capture a wide range of shots. For beach photography, consider a versatile zoom lens for flexibility and a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape.
Personally, I bring my Nikon Z7ii (with my Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.8 lens) and my Nikon Z6ii (with either my Sigma 35mm f/1.4 or my Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 lenses). I love getting wide angle shots with my zoom or 35mm and tight, intimate shots with my 85mm.
Lens Filters: Polarizing filters can be a game-changer at the beach. They reduce glare and reflections from water and enhance the saturation of colors in your photos, making the sea and sky pop. ND (neutral density) filters are also useful for long-exposure shots, allowing you to capture the smooth motion of waves.
Reflector: I bring my reflector with me to every shoot, especially at the beach! It aids as a surface to bounce light off of when I’m shooting backlit. Or, it acts as a shade for my clients if I’m trying to keep a blown out hotspot off their faces.
Flash: I try to use natural light as often as possible. However, in order to capture stunning sunsets behind my subjects, I pop my flash on. It’s a lot easier to edit sunset portraits with the aid of my flash.
My favorite flash is the Godox V1 with the Magmod kit.
Photo by Megan W Photography
Styling Tips for Stunning El Matador Beach Photos
Capturing beautiful moments at the beach is a cherished pastime for many, but getting that picture-perfect shot takes more than just having a camera. In this subheading, we'll explore essential styling tips that will help you create stunning beach photos that truly stand out.
Dressing for the Occasion: What you wear to your beach photoshoot plays a crucial role in the final result. While it may be tempting to sport your favorite summer attire, keep in mind that beach weather can be unpredictable. To ensure your comfort and the success of your shoot, consider these clothing tips:
Layer Up: It's always a good idea to dress a bit warmer than you initially think, especially if you're shooting during the late afternoon or early evening. Beaches can quickly become chilly, especially when the wind picks up around sunset. Bringing layers like a sweater, shawl, or a stylish jacket can help you stay cozy while maintaining your fashion-forward look.
Practical Footwear: Sand and sea are a challenging combination for many types of footwear. Opt for comfortable and sturdy shoes that will allow you to move freely and, if necessary, wade through shallow water or walk on uneven terrain. You’ll most likely take your shoes off for the photoshoot, so try to prioritize practicality over style.
Wardrobe Choices: Choosing the right outfits for your beach photoshoot is essential for achieving that stunning, natural look that complements the beach's aesthetics. Here are some wardrobe tips to consider:
Light and Airy Fabrics: Beaches are all about light and relaxed vibes. Opt for clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon. Flowing dresses, loose-fitting shirts, and billowy pants not only look great but also capture the essence of the beach.
Neutral Tones: To harmonize with the beach's natural colors and tones, opt for neutral or pastel shades. Whites, soft blues, sandy beiges, and pale pinks are excellent choices. These colors will help you blend seamlessly with the surroundings and create a serene, beachy atmosphere in your photos.
Photo by Megan W Photography
The Best Photoshoot Spots around El Matador
El Matador has many different locations to choose from, that what makes it so popular for photoshoots! It truly just depends on the tide and how far you’d like to walk. Click on the titles below to take you to the exact timestamps in the video.
The picnic area to the right: Just as you leave your car, you walk down the trail, past the pay booths, and go to the right toward the picnic tables. This is a popular spot for sunset portraits because you get a stunning view of the sun going below the horizon.
The landing along the cliff: This is my favorite place to take photos as the sun is getting ready to set below the horizon. It’s right below the first stair case you walk down.
The rock to the left: When you walk all the way down the stairs, there’s a rock to the left. This is one of my favorite places to take photos because it’s not usually super crowded.
The path between the rocks: This is my favorite spot when the sand is low on the beach.
Sea tunnel rock: This spot has to be everyone’s favorite. Again, when the sand is low, you can crouch down and walk through the sea tunnels in this rock. It also creates a stunning and iconic backdrop to your photos.
Spire rock: You have to walk down the beach a way to get to this next spot. But it’s one of my favorites because it’s not as overcrowded as the Sea Tunnel Rock.
Camel rock: You can only access this spot at super low-tides, and technically it’s a part of a different beach all together. But if you’re up for the trek, it’s so worth it!
Photo by Megan W Photography
Capturing the Beauty of El Matador at Different Times of Day
El Matador beach is a constantly changing landscape, whether that be by hour, day, or season. Each aspect has pros and cons, which I will expand on:
Sunrise: The old saying “the early bird gets the worm” definitely applies to El Matador. There’s no crowds and no wind. However, there can be thick fog in the early morning. If it’s going to be a clear day, opt for a sunrise session. The colors and tranquility of the morning are so soft and stunning. However, if it’s overcast, opt for a session in the late morning so that it’s not too dark and moody. Overcast weather can add an ethereal touch to your images if your photographer knows how to work in it.
Midday: Midday photoshoots yield bold and heavily contrasted images. You’ll have to hire a skilled photographer who knows how to work the harsh light if you want soft, flattering images.
Sunset: Sunset photoshoots at El Matador can be stunning if you plan it right and are prepared. During the busy season and on the weekends, it’s absolutely packed with people looking to capture the perfect sunset portrait. If you want a sunset photoshoot at El Matador, try to aim for the off season during a weekday.
Not only is it more crowded during sunset, but it can also get really cold. Way colder than you’d think for a SoCal beach. The wind picks up and blows the cold ocean air onshore. Thankfully, El Matador is protected for the most part by the rock formations. But it’s still something to plan for with your wardrobe and hair.Weekdays: There will always be people at El Matador, that’s a given. However, if you plan your shoot on a weekday instead of a weekend, you’ll have a better time and a more productive photoshoot.
Off-Season: Malibu’s Off-Season is Fall through Spring. During the summer, crowds flock to the beaches to avoid the summer heat. You won’t experience the sheer mass of people if you schedule your shoot during the off-season.
Low Tide: El Matador is best experienced at Low Tide. You’ll have more versatility on the beach and you won’t have to worry about the dangers that come with High Tide.
Photo by Megan W Photography
Best Seasons to Visit El Matador Beach
El Matador Beach is a year-round treasure with each season offering its own distinct charm for photographers and clients alike.
Spring: Spring brings the wildflowers to the rugged cliffs of El Matador. There are several spots in and around El Matador that produce the best shows of wildflowers in Malibu, so try to schedule it with your photographer to include some portraits among Malibu’s wildflower displays. Temperatures are cool and mild during this time of the year.
El Matador starts to become a bit more crowded toward late spring, so try to schedule your photoshoots accordingly.
Summer: Summer is Malibu’s busiest time of the year, especially El Matador beach. There are several other beaches in Malibu' I’d recommend over El Matador during the summer. However, if you’re visiting in the summer and you want to have a photoshoot at El Matador, I suggest scheduling your session for a weekday, or during a sunrise/early morning session.
Try to have someone drop you off at El Matador so you don’t have to worry about parking.
Fall: This is my favorite time of the year for El Matador photoshoots. The summer crowds have left, the water is the warmest it’s been all year, and we get more consistent low tides at sunset. The sunsets over El Matador are the most stunning during the fall and winter months!
Be on the lookout for Santa Ana winds in the forecast! These strong winds occur during fall and winter months.
Winter: This is going to be the least crowded season for El Matador, and yet the most stunning. During the winter solstice, the sun sets directly over the ocean, creating the opportunity for the most beautiful sunset portraits you’ll ever see.
Bring layers and enjoy El Matador’s most beautiful season.
Photo by Megan W Photography
Safety Tips for a Successful El Matador Beach Photoshoot
Before you embark on your photoshoot adventure, it's crucial to prioritize safety:
Tide Awareness: Keep a close eye on tide schedules and plan your shoot during low tide to access the sea caves and minimize safety risks. High tide at El Matador can get dangerous very quickly.
Footwear: Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear that you can easily take on and off. Your feet are more than likely going to get wet, so try to avoid socks.
Wardrobe: Bring layers. The beaches get surprisingly cold, especially around sunset. Especially bundle up children if you plan on including them in your photoshoot.
Weather: Check the weather forecast to ensure you're prepared for any sudden changes in weather conditions.
Interested in a Session at El Matador?
About Megan W Photography
Megan is a Fine Art Maternity, Couples, and Family photographer who was born, raised, and is still living in Malibu, CA. She is here to capture you and your loved ones in images that you will want to cherish, and pass down to future generations.
Not only is she a photographer, but she is a mother, wife, daughter, and sister.
Maternity, family, and couples hold a special place in her heart because she knows how quickly time flies by. Megan W Photography wants to help you preserve those sweet little smiles, those tender, affectionate moments, and the love you share with each other.
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Hi! I’m Megan
I’m a luxury, Malibu, CA based photographer who specializes in Maternity, Couples, and Families. I serve Los Angeles and Ventura County, as well as all of California. I value tangible, heirloom art pieces versus digital and I focus on quality over quantity.
