South Marshall's Beach view of Golden Gate Bridge

This photo of Marshall's Beach and the Golden Gate Bridge was taken at the top of a set of stairs that lead to the beach. To get here, find parking at either Langdon Court Parking (37.803326, -122.476758) or the neighboring CNG parking lot (37.802608, -122.476118). Next, make your way toward the Battery to Bluffs trail, which is on the southern side of the Langdon Court parking lot. Once you've followed the trail for about 5 minutes, turn right toward a set of stairs marked by a "No pets" sign. Follow the trail down for about 15 minutes (reference the GPS coordinates) and you'll eventually be led to this north-facing viewpoint. Once you reached the viewpoint, have your model walk down to the beach and toward the bridge.

Marshall's Beach and the Golden Gate Bridge can be photographed during any month of the year.

During sunset, the orange colors of the sky will complement the bridge's red structure. The lighting at this time of day will also soften the brightness of the neighboring cliff-side rocks.

Focal length-wise, I suggest shooting around 35mm-50mm to create a more natural, well-proportioned image.

I think it looks best when your shot is set up around 7ft. to the right of the stairs that lead down to the beach since this placement will line the subject up with the bridge.

Incorporating a model in the photo will create a nice sense of scale. Have them walk out right into the center lower thirds of the frame when the tide washes back and then start snapping some shots.

Head north and see the bridge from the Golden Gate Overlook. This vista point is open 24-hours a day so you'll be able to shoot there no matter the time!