Let’s get wet and wild! Underwater photography is an amazing way to capture memories of your travels or have some fun in the backyard pool. But, it can be challenging – here are some frequently asked questions

What camera do you use for underwater photography?

I use the GoPro 10. I love how lightweight and impact-resistant they are. They aren’t as expensive as my full-frame camera so I’m not as worried about submerging them underwater. It’s perfect for travel. I also love finding new ways to use my GoPro. For example, time-lapse videos of decorating the Christmas tree or fun family videos of different adventures. 

How do you get those over/under shots?

I use a dome to get those cool over/under shots. I’ve used two different kinds and I prefer the SHOOT Dome Port Lens. There are a few tips that you should know before shooting with a dome.

1. Do not lay your dome face down! It will scratch. I prefer to keep a towel near the edge of the pool to lay my dome on when not in use. The towel comes in handy to wipe off water spots between takes.
2. Anti-fog is really helpful to keep those water spots from sticking on your dome. HERE

Do you shoot in burst mode?

GoPro has the ability to shoot in RAW which is awesome because this gives you more control in post-processing. However, you can’t shoot in RAW and burst mode. Most of my images aren’t posed so that means I need to capture the action fast and I don’t ask my kids to repeat an activity. Shooting like this takes practice and shooting this way underwater …whew it gets tricky. So I increase my odds when shooting underwater by shooting in burst mode and sacrificing shooting in RAW.

 How do you compose your photos?

I prefer to compose & wait. I anticipate where the action is going to happen & I compose for that area. I then wait for the action to happen in that area. If I notice amazing light then I will compose & wait in that light.

Do you use goggles while shooting?

 I use full-face goggles that cover the nose. This eliminates air bubbles from getting into the frame.

What time of day do you prefer to shoot underwater?

Normally my kids are jumping in the pool or ocean during the middle of the day. So I make it work the best that I can. When the sun is right above, the sun rays are streaming through the water and can create light flare. This can also create funky light on the bottom of the pool.

I love shooting in the water in the late afternoon. The color of the water is different and I don’t have to worry about the light streaming through the water.

A couple of things about the color of the water:

The water will change depending on the body of water you are shooting in. The water in a concrete pool will look different than a pool with a liner, as will the ocean, a lake, or a pond.

The water clarity makes a big impact on your images. A public pool is normally a struggle with the water clarity.

What’s the best way to edit underwater photos?

My first step is always correcting the white balance. Then increasing contrast, clarity, sharpening, & noise reduction-luminance. I usually increase the saturation on aqua & blue.

Watch me edit HERE

What about skin tones underwater?

When the subject is close to the camera, their skin tones are easier to correct. The greater the distance between the subject & the camera increases the blue in the skin. 

Now go out and start exploring the amazing world beneath the surface!

Links

GoPro Hero 10: https://amzn.to/3yU93KQ

SHOOT Dome Port Lens: https://amzn.to/38DIBux

Anti Fog Spray: https://amzn.to/3yU4vEC

Underwater Edit Video: https://vimeo.com/396269144