Photography
Underwater Photography
By Shelleyrae Cusbert 2006
Jun 8, 2006, 04:27

Capturing some of the action around the pool or beach this summer will be a common theme among scrapbookers. For some unique photographs why not consider taking some underwater shots?

There is specialized camera equipment available for underwater photography. If you have the use for it you can purchase cameras both film and digital designed largely for scuba divers and snorkelers. Several camera models are adaptable for underwater use with the purchase of underwater housings. Housings are usually made of glass and metal and fit snuggly around the camera to protect it from water. You can check with your camera manufacturer on the availability and pricing for your model.

For most of us the best option for underwater shots are the single use underwater cameras developed by companies such as Kodak and Fuji.
These cameras are a great way of taking underwater photographs in a backyard pool or at the beach or lake. The specifications are for each being good to a depth of about 12 feet (3.5m) and use a fast film (ISO 800) to counter the reduction of light under the water’s surface. They are relatively inexpensive and can be purchase many chain stores or camera stores. As a single use camera they a handed in for processing.

Here are a few tips for taking successful underwater photographs with a single use underwater camera.
• Look for clear water – pool water is ideal but if you are at the beach or lake the single use cameras cannot compensate for murky or gritty water. Move in closer to the subject if necessary and wait until the water is calm.
• The best time to take underwater photographs is between 10am and 2pm because this is when the sun is directly overhead and the sunlight is best able to penetrate the water. Strong light is a must when taking photographs with the single use cameras if there is no flash to add illumination. The camera may also struggle in indoor pools unless the light is strong.
• Color and light is lost quickly underwater so if your model of single use camera does have a flash, use it. If not then you may be able to correct the shots in your software. Red is the first color to fade underwater.
Keep in mind your position in relation to the subject. If you are shooting from underneath up to the surface your subject will appear silhouetted against the light. For the best results stay level with your subject.
• Try to keep the camera steady. If you are floating in the water the camera will find it difficult to focus correctly creating blur. Try bracing yourself against something or wait until you are floating steadily.
• Underwater cameras don’t have to be used only underwater – catch the action on the surface without worrying the camera will be splashed or dropped in the sand.
• Take lots of pictures! Underwater pictures are unpredictable even with the ideal gear so you increase your chances of useable pictures with the more pictures that you take.

One other tip when purchasing a single use camera – check the expiry date. The camera’s film has an expiration date and you will risk failure of the film if it is close to, or past the due date.


***First published in Tidbytes August 2004***

© Copyright by YourSITE.com