Taking photos underwater offers a combination of thrill, excitement and discovery. And the level of excitement that comes with this activity is almost unparalleled, thanks to the challenge and difficulty that comes with swimming and diving, and the discoveries that can be made underwater.

Although this may seem like a difficult task to do, especially for first-time photographers, keep in mind that with the right combination of cameras and photography tricks, it is possible to take creative and exciting photos underwater.

Invest in the Right Underwater Cameras

If you want to take underwater photography seriously, then you should know that this does not come in cheap. Aside from the fact that you need to plan your diving locations, you also need to invest in high-end and appropriate cameras and accessories. For example, you need to invest in a quality housing for your camera for it to be underwater-ready. In order to complete your camera and accessories, you need to set a budget of at least 1,000, and that should include your camera housing, strobes and accessories.

When it comes to specific cameras that you can bring on your next adventure, you are given at least three options. You can choose from the common compact cameras, mirror-less cameras and DSLR cameras when planning to get into underwater photography. The cheapest option is a compact camera which is readily available, and light and compact. Mirror-less cameras are also popular among underwater photography enthusiasts, thanks to its interchangeable lenses. The best option so far is a DSLR camera, a camera that offers a wide variety of lenses, and better control.

Get Comfortable, and Get Closer to Sea Animals

You can only start capturing the best moments underwater if you become comfortable underwater. The camera is just a tool, and your body becomes a platform. And the ability to swim, and swim fast to catch a fast-moving subject underwater is a critical skill that should be developed by an aspiring underwater photographer.

Also, instead of snorkelling, you may want to improve your skills when it comes to scuba diving. The great thing about scuba diving is that it allows you to go deep, and stay underwater longer. This means that you can get closer to fishes and other marine life. In order to be skilled and successful in this activity, you need to be confident in flotation and you should be able to control your body.

Aside from controlling your buoyancy, it is best to get closer to your underwater subjects. If you think that you are already close enough to your underwater subjects, get closer.

Use Flash and the Camera’s Built-in ‘Scene Modes’

Lighting is not your friend when you dive and go deeper underwater. If you want to discover what the underwater brings, make sure you use the camera’s flash. Flash can help illuminate the area, and puts the focus on your subjects. It will also add some colour to your pictures. If possible, you need to learn how to balance Flash with ambient lighting to come up with interesting and dramatic underwater photos.

Some cameras also include built-in scenes that can help produce great pictures. Olympus cameras, for example, feature the ‘instant expert’ that will automatically configure the camera to the best settings possible.

Keep these recommendations and tricks in mind when planning to take pictures underwater. With the right camera, diving skills and passion for photography, you can definitely pull off some of the best shots.