Underwater Photography Tips

“I’d like to be under the sea, in an octopus’ garden in the shade” ~ The Beatles.

Do you wish to preserve the memory of your underwater experience for years to come? Do you wish to show friends in picture and/or video form how beautiful it is beneath the waters during our custom diving packages in Maui? Or perhaps you would like to sell your pictures to sites like Shutterstock, SmugMug Pro, Etsy or Fotolia. Well, if you plan on immortalizing your trip with us we have tips from some of the best underwater photographers working today to help you figure out the best way to capture the beauty that lies beneath the waves.

• Practice safety always: The first rule to adventure photography is to always use common sense when capturing nature and her creatures. Be wary about approaching some sea creatures particularly if they are drawing away from you. Also, observe all the rules and cautions that your PADI certified Maui instructors set out for you.
• Familiarize yourself with your camera: Filming underwater scenes can be tricky. It requires special adjustments be made to your camera’s light settings, color settings, etc. Go over the manual that came with your camera carefully before venturing out into the ocean. This way you will have a better chance of setting up the optimal shot when desired.
• Use plenty of light: Water filters light from the surface. To compensate for this, you’ll either need to use heavy strobe or flashing lighting. This will help your color saturation as well. Also, you may wish to do the bulk of your photographing near the surface or using some form of external lighting.
• Slow down your shutter speed: Things move pretty slowly underwater. Because of this, you should slow your shutter speed down. This will help you pick up on ambient light – which you will need plenty of – and lighten the blue water around you.
• Be patient: Remember that the creatures around you are not actors. It may take some time for them to avail themselves of the perfect shot. Be patient and wait for the moment. Eventually, it will come and be worth the wait.

Remember above all that the sea is a natural environment. You won’t be able to control all elements but if you plan things out carefully and consult with one of our diving experts, you should be able to capture the experience to your satisfaction. Good luck and see you when you arrive.