WHEN TO PHOTOGRAPH A GOLF COURSE
Timing is everything. But is there a perfect time to photograph a golf course? Here are some points to consider.
The timing of a golf course shoot will depend on the type of course and its location. Links courses, for example, fair better during the extremes of the season than inland courses. They also benefit from being treeless. By contrast, parkland courses are more dependent on leaf coverage and blooms. Your photographer should help you make a decision on the optimum timing of the shoot and/or provide you with options, such as a one or two-shoot strategy, or even an on-going arrangement. Undoubtedly, the greatest source of wisdom regarding this issue will be the course manager, who sees the course at its very best.
Southport & Ainsdale Golf Club
Regardless of location, golf courses are photographed throughout the season, which can bring its own risks and rewards.
Early season – the advantages of photographing your course early is you can use the imagery to promote the season ahead. Disadvantages include a lack of grass growth (therefore definition), tree coverage, colour etc.
Mid season – the advantages of opting for a mid-season shoot include better weather, longer days and more light. The disadvantages are more traffic on the course and shorter windows of “good” light.
Late season – the advantages of waiting until the end of the season include better fairway definition, better light and optimal timing for the build-up to the winter season (when many golfers start planning next year’s trip). Possible disadvantages include poorer weather and maintenance programmes.
Royal Lytham and St Annes, 15
If you need any help determining the best time to photograph your golf course, please get in touch.