Eastbourne Embers

I arrived at Eastbourne beach in the pre-dawn darkness, setting up my tripod on the pebbles while the world was still asleep. The forecast had promised clear skies, and I was hoping to catch Eastbourne Pier—one of East Sussex's finest Victorian structures—bathed in the warm light of sunrise.

As the sun began to rise over the English Channel, the entire scene transformed. The sky erupted in shades of amber, gold, and soft pink, casting a warm glow across the calm water. The reflections were extraordinary—the pier's elegant silhouette mirrored perfectly in the still sea, creating a symmetry that felt almost dreamlike. I used my wide-angle lens to capture the full breadth of the scene, allowing the sweeping beach and the dramatic sky to frame this iconic landmark.

Built in 1870, Eastbourne Pier has witnessed over 150 years of sunrises, yet each one feels unique. Standing there that April morning, watching the light paint across the water and illuminate the pier's ornate details, I was reminded of why coastal photography never grows old—nature ensures that no two moments are ever quite the same.

When you look at this photograph, I want you to feel that sense of quiet anticipation that comes with watching a new day begin. It's about being present for those fleeting moments when light, water, and architecture align to create something truly special.