Beginner Tips for Underwater Photography

Underwater photography can produce fantastic photos but it comes with its own set of challenges. It’s not all about diving into the deep abyss and taking a few shots. You face the threat of soaking your equipment, not enough time to get the right shots, the make-up of your model running when the photoshoot isn’t finished, and blurry lighting. But with the right techniques, you’ll be able to shoot those great pics in no time! Below are some tips to remember when shooting underwater.

Don’t scrimp on Housing Photography

Photography equipment is expensive. Your equipment can cost thousands of dollars and be damaged with just a few leaks. Underwater photography will subject your equipment in an environment which can easily destroy your stuff so you gotta buy the right housing to make sure your camera and props are well protected. Good housing doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to buy. Many photographers have raved about Ikelite (https://www.ikelite.com/) and how their housing doesn’t prevent you from accessing your camera’s features, are reliable, sturdy, and of good quality.

Understand that not all water is the same

Light is a lot dimmer in water than on land. Because of this, your camera’s sensor pics up a lot less light. And since buying a lot of waterproof lighting equipment can be expensive, choose a place where there is plenty of ambient light available. Finding a place with the right light is crucial to setting up a good photoshoot.

Light is different underwater

Light is a lot dimmer in water than on land. Because of this, your camera’s sensor pics up a lot less light. And since buying a lot of water proof lighting equipment can be expensive, choose a place where there is plenty of ambient light available. Finding a place with the right light is crucial to setting up a good photoshoot.

Understand your models

Be patient with them. It’s hard to see underwater and because you two can’t talk, then they can’t be sure that what they’re doing is the right shot you’re looking for. Give them some poses to practice on land so they can be more prepared when it’s done underwater. Models also have the added stress of having water in their ears and up their nose.As a photographer, you should relate to the conditions your models are going through. You can wear a wetsuit, swimsuit, or other clothing appropriate for the waters but then, you wouldn’t be able to relate to your model much. By wearing clothes of similar material, you’ll be able to better understand what to ask of them given the conditions they are in.

Breath properly

You may think that the best way to spend long amounts of time underwater is to keep air in your lungs but you’ll want to do the opposite. Keeping air in your lungs makes the body buoyant and will lead you to spend most of your time floating to the surface. Instead, release the air. At first, this seems terrifying but with some practice, you’ll get used to it and keep yourself suspended beneath the water, snapping those pictures.

The takeaway

For photographers used to land settings, underwater photography can seem daunting and expensive. But just like other types of photography, you just need some time and practice. Underwater photography is a fun and unique challenge and will help you develop lots of new skills.