Underwater Photography
Why not try your hand at underwater photography if you will be traveling to Punta Cana with plenty of water nearby. Whether you are scuba diving in an excursion to Isla Catalina, snorkeling, swimming the photography is interesting and you can capture particular memories.
There are several choices ranging from the basic, entry level point and shoot type of cameras to the most expensive, high end digital systems. You will also have to select between an underwater film camera and a digital model. There are also single-use underwater cameras to consider and many are water-safe for depths of up to 50 feet.
Using a camera underwater
One thing to look for when choosing an underwater camera is a decent LCD screen, which is one of the camera's most important features as it allows you to clearly see your subject before you shoot.
Of course you will need to maintain all of your equipment to keep it working as it should. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance suggestions. Also, if you will be exploring salty waters, never allow the salt to dry on any of your equipment. It should be rinsed completely with clean water (not salty) after each dive. Sand can also damage underwater cameras.
In addition to the actual equipment, you will also
need an
incredible amount of persistence when it comes to underwater
photography.
Marine life will naturally need some time to get used to having a
visitor in their own territory so you may not be able to get as close
as you like to fish and other creatures at first. Making little
movement and remaining in one place for a while will give the animals a
chance to be comfortable with you being there.
Tips for getting the ideal underwater shot
Regardless of the type of camera you are able to afford there are still basic rules to follow including composition, compensating for loss of light underwater and gaining a better understanding of underwater photography in general. While it is true there may be a lot to learn when it comes to underwater photography, there are definitely a few basic pointers to know that will help you get the absolute best shots possible.
1- The first rather important thing to remember is that water makes everything seem bigger and closer than they actually are, which means you may not really be as near to an object as you think. Face masks tend to make objects appear about 25% closer than they really are. Therefore, even if you think you are close enough, move in even closer before taking your shot.
2- While you will want to get as close as possible to marine life to get the best shots, obviously you will want to steer clear of any potential predators for safety purposes. You will definitely want to make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times.
3- The next thing to keep in mind is that water absorbs light which will practically take most of the color out of your underwater images. A common complaint of underwater photographers is that everything comes out looking dull with a blue or gray hue saturating the photos.
4- Remember, the further you are away from the surface the darker your images will be, making it important to use the camera's flash.
5- Do keep in mind that the best time of day for
taking underwater
pictures is between the hours approximately of 10:30 am and before 3
pm, when the sun will be
directly overhead.
6- Another detail for making underwater
photography easier and
more effective is to shoot up. Underwater images turn out best when
shot at an upward position (just lightly). That way it tends to capture
the
most intricate and dramatic images.
Last but certainly not least, is very important to
respect the
environment. Leave every
area as you found it and make sure none of your equipment is getting
tangled in a reef. Also, don't touch any
type of marine life, especially corals, as even the slightest touch can
have seriously
adverse consequences for many of the delicate creatures that live in
the sea.
Underwater photography is without any doubt an amazing adventure. Make your vacation memorable with some stunning underwater photographs you will have to cherish long after you have returned home.
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