Underwater Photography

Underwater Photography

Photography has been with us for quite a while now but it is constantly changing and evolving. Cameras as well as methods of developing are changing and improving all the time. We have digital cameras that allow people to take a view of their pictures immediately without traditional developing.

Welcome to the world of Underwater Photography - What do you think brings us those great shots of saltwater fish and movies that are filmed in the ocean and under the sea? What about shots taken in swimming pools? Have you considered the process of taking these pictures?

What is Underwater Photography?

You've guessed it, underwater photography is pictures taken under water. This is pretty interesting since early cameras could not function if wet due to limited technology. As people started discovering the wonders under the sea, they wanted to be able to share that with others or even just to prove what they actually saw. For this reason underwater cameras were invented.

Underwater photography is surely a favorite pastime for scuba divers. The idea could have come from those few people that were able to experience the joys and beauty of underwater life and a desire to share that beauty with others. There are many different occasions where people use underwater photography, like movies for instance. You have probably also seen it used on documentaries and national geographic type programs about underwater life.

How to Take Underwater Photography:

The right equipment form an essential part in taking great underwater photographs. In doing this you will need an underwater camera but there is more to it than that.  There are now even disposable underwater cameras and you can take them on vacation with you and get that great underwater look. Disposable underwater cameras can typically be developed at your local Wal-Mart or other film developing center.

Most people prefer to purchase a proper camera instead of disposables, especially if they want to take these pictures often. Just like other venues of photography, you will probably start off with a cheaper and less advanced camera and work your way up if you continue underwater photography for a long time. There are two basics kinds of cameras; the waterproof camera and the encased camera which is inside a housing / cover that protects it.

Familiarize yourself with the following:

Your camera, Your lens, Your film, Your flash. There are different things in your environment that will affect the quality of your underwater photography. Such as:

1. Depth and transparency of water
2. Light
3. The angle of the sunlight on the top of the water
4. The backscatter
5  Magnifying effect of water

These are just some of the things to help you get started in the world of underwater photography - "Happy shooting"!

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