Thanks to improved technology, an increased number of divers are enjoying the opportunity to take their cameras underwater. While not everyone wants to be a professional, all of us like the idea of taking better photos while diving – after all, it’s a lot more fun to share a great looking picture than it is to reluctantly allow others to peek at blurry fish photos! Here, we’ll take a look at some common problems encountered during underwater photography, plus we’ll provide some surprisingly simple solutions to the same issues.
Underwater Photography Basics
Before we get into problems, let’s cover a couple of basics. There are two main types of underwater photography: wide-angle and macro. Each of these once required specific equipment; however, there’s no real need for different lenses to accomplish the effect you’re looking for if you have a decent digital camera. Depending on the model you have, you may need to adjust the lens manually or your camera may make adjustments automatically. Learn how to take wide-angle and macro shots while topside, and you’ll be halfway to success.
Most problems with underwater photography occur because water is denser than air, and that change in density affects light waves and changes the way colors appear.
Stay Close and Focus on Angle
One of the most common problems beginning underwater photographers encounter is that their subjects appear distant. Getting as close as possible to your subject is the best way to fix this problem. Another problem is that subjects tend to have a lifeless look, making shots a bit boring for viewers. This usually happens when the photographer is hovering above his or her subject. Instead of taking photos from above, get down to the subject’s level, and try to position your lens slightly below that subject. This will allow you to capture impressive images, particularly if you’re photographing fish and other marine life.
Use Lots of Light
Water affects the way the color spectrum works, absorbing different colors at different rates. Red and orange, which are prevalent in the underwater world, are among the first colors to go – and this is unfortunate, as they’re some of the most exciting. Yellows and greens are next to dissolve, and once these colors disappear, we’re left to view an unending palate of blues and blacks. When you shine a light on an object, you restore its color temporarily, so be sure to equip yourself with the lights needed to bring color and life back to your photos. Strobes are great, and so are fixed lights.
Prevent Backscatter
We just talked about using plenty of light, but the same light you’re using to illuminate objects also illuminates particulate matter floating in the water column. You can reduce the amount of backscatter in your photos by adjusting your lights’ angles. To minimize backscatter as much as possible, place your strobe above and to one side of your subject at a 45-degree angle. This will shed plenty of light on the object you’re photographing, and though it will still illuminate those particles, it will not illuminate the side you’re photographing.
Create Contrast
Without contrast, images lose much of their visual appeal. Contrast is defined as the tonal difference between a photo’s lightest elements and its darkest; think in terms of light and shadow, and you’ll see why it’s so important. Contrast provides a sense of depth, conveys a feeling of drama, and makes colors appear brighter. For high contrast, get close to your subjects or look for a way to position yourself so that light objects are juxtaposed with dark backgrounds and vice versa. You can also increase the amount of light you are shedding on your subject, however this can lead to unnatural looking results.
Capture Sharp Images
The more water there is between you and the subject, the less clear your subject will appear. Again, distance is an issue. For crisp, clear images, try to get as close to your subject as you can. In addition, be sure that your camera is set correctly, and ensure that you have adequate light. An improper dome is another problem, and if your aperture is set too tightly, you can lose sharpness.
Understand Magnification
Water distorts images and can magnify things so they look larger than they really are, particularly in photographs. To get realistic looking results, be sure to use a wide-angle lens for taking photos of objects in the distance. A digital SLR with a wide lens will give you great results.
Use Proper Equipment
To capture quality images underwater, it’s vital that you use the right equipment. Without it, you could even end up ruining your camera. Start by choosing a camera that is compatible with an underwater housing, preferably a housing made specifically for that camera. A point and shoot, a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, or even an iPhone can be a good choice – just be sure you get the right housing and practice with it before going underwater. While “waterproof” cameras are available, these are meant for snorkeling and other shallow water sports – they’re not typically rated for taking to depth.
Once you have selected equipment, be sure that you maintain it well. Keep sand and water out, use a desiccant to prevent lens fogging, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding lubricating O-rings and other camera and housing parts.
Consider the Background
All the best photographs have something in common: It’s easy to identify the subject, and the background enhances the total image quality rather than detracting from it. Pay attention to what is happening in the background, consider how it will affect the overall look of your photo, and you’ll be well on your way to composing awesome underwater shots.
Finally, remember to pay close attention to what’s happening around you while you are diving. Remember not to lose track of your buddy as you still have a responsibility to monitor him or her, and remember to pay close attention to buoyancy as it will help you get better results. Last but not least, consider taking an underwater photography class. This will help you to learn the basics and much more.