Intro
If you’ve ever tried snapping a photo underwater and thought, “Why doesn’t this look like the stunning shots I see online?”—you’re not alone. Underwater photography comes with its own unique set of challenges. But with a few quick rules, you can elevate your underwater images and create vibrant, crystal-clear photos that pop! Here’s your fast guide to taking pro-level photos below the surface.
1. Get Close to Your Subject: The “Less Water, More Wow” Rule
Water isn’t your friend when it comes to vibrant colors. The more water between you and your subject, the duller your photo will look. Try to get as close as possible to your subject to bring out all the colors and details. Bonus tip: if you think you’re close enough, go a little closer!
2. Light Up the Depths
Water eats light—especially red and yellow wavelengths. Whether you’re 5 feet or 50 feet down, adding an underwater strobe or light can make your images come alive. Proper lighting restores those lost colors and details, making your subject look like it belongs in a nature documentary.
3. Master Your Buoyancy
Good buoyancy control is a game-changer. By staying steady and avoiding the urge to grab onto rocks or coral, you not only protect the underwater world but also keep your shots sharp. Think of yourself as a stealthy underwater ninja—gliding and floating for the perfect shot.
4. Adjust Your White Balance for Real Color Magic
Deeper water, less color. Adjust your white balance to bring out the best in natural light shots. By tweaking it, especially if you’re shooting in RAW, you can restore those blues, reds, and greens and avoid the dreaded “underwater washout.”
5. Use Fast Shutter Speeds to Capture Action
Everything moves underwater: the fish, the coral, even you! Fast shutter speeds help freeze that movement and capture sharp, stunning images. You’ll avoid the “whoops, that fish is a blur” problem and instead get crisp, action-packed shots.
6. Embrace the Rule of Thirds
Composition is everything, even underwater. Place your subject a bit off-center using the rule of thirds to create balanced, engaging shots. Add some environment around your subject for context—it’s like creating an underwater scene straight out of a storybook.
7. Avoid Dreaded Backscatter (Those Annoying White Dots)
Backscatter is the underwater photographer’s nemesis—those white specks that look like you’ve been shooting in a snowstorm. To avoid this, angle your lights or strobes slightly outward rather than pointing them directly at your subject. Voilà—crystal-clear shots, minus the flakes.
8. Get Eye-Level with Your Subject
Ever notice how eye-level photos feel more personal? Apply that trick underwater by positioning yourself at the eye level of your subject. This perspective makes your photos feel more intimate and connects viewers directly to the underwater world.
9. Take Multiple Shots to Increase the Chance of Getting the Lucky Catch
Underwater photography can be unpredictable. Your subject might dart away, or the lighting might shift as you drift. Take multiple shots, and don’t rely on just one click. This improves your chances of capturing that “wow” moment and helps you build a stunning gallery.
10. Post-Process Editing
Editing isn’t cheating; it’s essential! Bring back color, boost contrast, and reduce noise in post-processing. Simple adjustments can do all the difference and help restore the detail and color that water naturally absorbs.
Conclution
Underwater photography can be challenging, but these 10 rules should make it easier for you to get started. By folloing these rules you will get closer to capturing the colors, details, and general magic underwater.
