Robert Moses Field 5 has become one of my absolute favorite places for photos — though funny enough, I only started going there because of photography. Growing up on the North Shore, I didn’t spend much time here, but now I can’t get enough. The sunsets are some of the best I’ve seen, with cotton candy skies stretching across the horizon. And the sand? So soft and comfortable, it makes long walks and beach sessions a breeze.
One of the best parts about this location is that it’s not just about the beach. The boardwalk leading out toward Fire Island Lighthouse is beautiful in itself, surrounded by tall grasses that glow in the late afternoon sun. Once you reach the lighthouse, you have a beautiful mix of coastal vibes and striking architecture in your shots. And of course, the beach speaks for itself — endless soft sand, rolling waves, and skies that change colors beautifully at sunset.
A quick tip: because Field 5 is so open, it tends to get windy. I always recommend keeping your hair pulled back or loosely pinned so you’re not fighting with it during photos. It helps you feel more comfortable and ensures your focus stays on the moment, not fixing flyaways.
Why Golden Hour is the Best Time
If you can, plan your session here around golden hour — that dreamy window just before sunset. The way the light hits the water and filters through the grasses makes the whole beach glow and flatters everyone in front of the lens. The skies often turn into those cotton candy pastels that Robert Moses is known for, which adds such a magical touch to portraits. Golden hour light is soft and flattering, and it really transforms the location into something unforgettable.
Whether you’re drawn to the natural landscapes, the lighthouse, or the waves at your feet, Robert Moses Field 5 has a little bit of everything for a photo session. It’s one of my favorite spots as a Long Island photographer because it gives clients so much variety in just one location — especially when timed with sunset.
If you’re planning photos at Robert Moses Field 5 or anywhere along the coast, I’d love to help you capture it all. I shoot these sessions from June to early Septemeber. Reach out here.
