From black sand beaches to laurel forest, a local photographer’s guide to the places that look best in photos, the light to aim for and what to know before you go.
Tenerife packs black sand, cliffs, forest and snow-topped volcano landscapes into a short drive. That is the good news. The hard part is choosing, because the island has different weather, different light and different crowds depending on where you are and when.
I live in the north-west, near Puerto de la Cruz, and I photograph across the island. Below are the places I recommend, grouped by type, each with the best light, who it suits and one practical note. Every place listed is public, so you can also visit on your own. If you would rather skip the research, send me your hotel area and date and I will pick for you. Prices are on the packages page.
Beach photoshoot Tenerife
Dark sand, white surf and green cliffs: the north coast is where Tenerife looks most like itself. Clouds are more frequent here than in the south, and they often give soft, even light.
A small, sheltered bay with dark sand and cliffs around it. It is close to where I live, so I know how the light moves here.
A wilder beach below the cliffs, with strong surf and a feeling of being far from everything.
Black sand with palms, gardens and a designed, calm promenade, a gentler beach look.
Volcanic coast
Textured lava rock, tide pools and rough waves make strong, cinematic backdrops, especially in black and white.
Dark lava formations and natural sea pools, with the old town just behind the coast.
Sunset photoshoot Tenerife
The west-facing coast is the classic choice for a sunset photoshoot in Tenerife. Open horizon, warm colours and often more sunshine than the north.
Tall, dark cliffs drop into the Atlantic, and the viewpoints above give you sea, rock and sky in one frame.
South Tenerife
The south is sunnier and drier than the north, and it is where many visitors stay. Staying in Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos or Las Américas? I come to you, and travel to one location is included in the price.
A long, wide beach of natural golden sand at the foot of Montaña Roja, a small red volcanic cone. Open sky, plenty of space and a very different look from the black sand of the north.
The resort coast of south-west Tenerife, with sandy beaches and seafront promenades close to many hotels. A good choice if you would rather not travel far for your session.
Green Tenerife
Mist, moss and ancient trees, a completely different Tenerife from the beaches. Anaga is protected, so we respect the paths and any rules that apply.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with green ridges, mist and forest trails that feel magical and calm.
Old towns
Colourful facades, balconies and cobbled streets work on any kind of day, including cloudy ones.
A UNESCO World Heritage city with colonial houses, courtyards and doors in strong colours.
Small squares, stone streets and a historic harbour, all within walking distance.
Volcanic landscape
Lava fields, red rock and huge skies around Mount Teide make a dramatic, almost lunar backdrop.
Unusual colours and scale that you cannot find on the coast.
There is no single best spot. The right place depends on three things.
I start from your hotel area, so you spend your time on the session and not in the car. A good spot is often closer than you think.
Golden hour is the classic choice, and early morning gives you quiet beaches. Midday is for forests, old towns and open shade.
The north is greener and often cloudier, which gives soft light. The south and south-west are sunnier and drier. On the day, I check the forecast and move the session to the side of the island with the better conditions. My Tenerife photoshoot page shows what a session looks like.
FAQ
Planning something special? See couples photoshoots or proposal photography.
Send me your dates and where you are staying. I will reply within 24 hours with the best location and time of day for your photoshoot.