subject: Underwater Photography The Basics To Capturing Great Images In The Presence Of Surrounding Water [print this page] While there are people who are contented with capturing images as they are, there are also those who dont mind a little thrill especially where taking pictures underwater is concerned. However, due to the different environment, shooting pictures underwater sets its own rules in order to capture crisp images and excellent resolutions even in the presence of water surrounding the camera.
Before you start venturing into underwater photography, you first have to secure a camera that is capable of surviving the pressure in this type of environment. As common sense dictates, it should be waterproof and made up of tight parts and connectors to inhibit water from getting inside the system. Some point-and-click cameras would sometimes come with their own protectors even if they werent made for underwater purposes.
Now, for you to capture excellent images underwater, here are some of the basic rules you need to be aware of.
Dont shoot images if your subject is 3 feet away. This distance is too much for you to create focus and this would likely make your subject appear less distinct because of too much water between it and the camera.
Try to get closer to your subject so as to counterbalance the dulling effect the water does to your subject. The standard distance usually encouraged is only 12 inches, nothing more.
Dont forget to tick your camera to the highest resolution to gather crisp images. If you think them dull enough, you can do some minor editing through Photoshop. Adjust the contrast for better image results.
As much as possible, try shooting images in aperture mode so that you can control and manage the amount of light that surrounds your subject as well as the light that comes from the flash of your camera.
As a basic rule, try to tick your camera to the lowest ISO if there is too much light, or plainly just set it to underwater mode if you want the camera to do the automatic adjustments for you.
Another basic concept involves using a higher shutter speed for moving objects. A 1/125 can do great for moving subjects (especially fishes).
If you ever found a still subject, check around for a good foreground to subject to complete the entire picture perfect moment.
As much as possible, capture images in raw mode.
Dont oversaturate your photos. This is a common mistake commonly done by beginners.
These are just some of the basics of underwater photography. Remember, you dont have to be a pro in capturing excellent images underwater, you just have to know the basics and everything else will follow.
