 The general purpose of under water photography is to bring sea life to the
surface. Most people are curious about what lives underwater and what actually
goes on beneath the ocean surface.
Underwater photographers make it their
mission to capture this hidden world on camera and bring to those people who
will never get a chance to see it firsthand. The under water world requires a
specific skills and techniques that are different from general photography
skills.
The underwater world needs to be captured up close unlike wildlife photography
for example. Since the water refracts and distorts images, the closer you are to
your photography subject, the less distortion you will have. A great deal of
patience is required for under water photography. You may be trying to take a
photo a fish or dolphin, but than they suddenly swim away before you get a
chance to. Also, water contains many particles like plankton that can cause the
image to lose contrast and sharpness.
Using an underwater flash, or strobe, will help provide the proper lighting
necessary for taking a great picture. Therefore, it is essential to use an
underwater camera with a flash. This will help to bring in other colors and
contrast them with the colors of the subject. A medium sized strobe is all that
is necessary as a large strobe can end up getting in the way.
Composition is extremely important. The same basic rules apply as in regular
photography, but you should shoot at an upward angle towards the subject.
Because of the camouflage technique of most sea life, they tend to blend into
their habitats. Since they do not stand out like this, they do not make good
photographs. The key is to always try to get a clear shot whenever the subject
blends into the ocean background.
If you are looking to improve your under water photography skills, you will
first need to work on your photography on land. When you get to the point where
you are taking great photos on land, than you can move into the more advanced
world of underwater photography, where taking great pictures takes more patience
and skill. Photography under water brings sea life to the surface which gives us
more information about the mysterious marine world. If you are just beginning to
have an interest in under water photography you should consider taking an
underwater photography course to learn proper technique.
About the author: Charlotte Plante is an avid photographer and runs a
photography website dedicated to underwater photography, wildlife photography,
and more. For great digital photography tips, discount offers, and more, visit
Charlotte's website at
DigitalPhotographyArticles.com.
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