BODIE LIGHTHOUSE

Nags Head, NC

Image by David Long @ www.davelongphoto.com

 
 

While Bodie Lighthouse is not on the ocean on the Outer Banks, it is situated on a nice body of water with a large clear area that makes it ideal for sunrise or a pretty good location for sunset shots. It is also in a relatively dark area that makes astrophotography very compelling from March-October.

The distinctive horizontal black and white stripes run from the bottom to the observation deck around the lantern room and it is topped with a black cupola for an overall height of 156 feet. Along with the keepers house (now a museum), the two structures make for a great minimalist scene with no wires, poles or other obstructions.

Photos and location summary by David Long. David is a landscape and travel photographer based in New England and provides both workshops and a series of self-guided e-books to help find the best locations to shoot in the Northeast US. David’s portfolio along with information on his workshops and self-guided e-books can be found at davelongphoto.com.

Trail Difficulty - EASY

This trail is a 1 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most difficult). Parking is right at the lighthouse and there are trails around the light and out a boardwalk that stretches 1/5 of a mile into the salt marsh. Perfectly flat and simple to walk and move around the whole scene.

What Lens(es) Do You Need

I would suggest bringing lens that range from 16mm to 35mm. The above shot was taken at 24mm.

Photography Tips

I like this location for sunset shots and my favorite season is in the winter with the sun in the southern sky. Hiking out the boardwalk provides the best view as well an opportunity to use the boardwalk as a leading line into the lighthouse. Winter also provides some great color on the dormant sea grass. For astrophotography, you have the ability to walk over the entire property to give yourself just the right angle for the Milky Way regardless of the month you decide to shoot. Lastly, there are some great minimalist scenes with this lighthouse and keepers house that you don't see very often on popular locations like this.

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Our location summaries are written by experienced photographers - with practical information for planning your adventure - and with tips to getting the best shot

GPS Coordinates & Elevation

xx°27'5.80"N xxx°50'16.64"W

Sea Level Ft. Elevation

Directions

CLICK HERE to get driving directions to Bodie Island Lighthouse

From Raleigh, NC - drive on US 64 for 99 miles (crossing over Alligator River, Croatand and Roanoke Sounds) until you come to Bodie Island. Once on the island, take a right on North Carolina HWY 12 for 5.8 miles and turn right onto Bodie Island Lighthouse Rd. and drive for about a mile to the …

Equipment Needed

Other than your camera - all you will need a sturdy tripod.

Weather

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KNOW THE DETAILS BEFORE YOU GO

  • Best Time of Day to Shoot

    It is all about the light! We help you plan your trip and let you know if the location is a sunrise, sunset or anytime shot.

  • Best Time of Year

    Sunrise might be best in summer or the waterfall conditions are best for spring. We will let you know.

  • Direction of Shot

    Is the shot facing east or west? We provide this information to best understand the direction of the shot.

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  • Camping & Lodging Options

    We provide the closest camping (with direct links via Google maps) and lodging (with direct links to TripAdvisor).

  • Nearby Restaurants

    After a long day of shooting, it is great to know where you can grab a good meal and a cold refreshment. We share personal favorites.