Shooting photos above and below water can be fun and challenging. The large Red Salmon run has given me some great subject material, so last week I decided to play around with some underwater photography.
My actual technique is a little involved. I use a special tank a buddy made for me, along with underwater flash, and a remotely fired camera. Even in a shallow, crystal clear stream, the flash is still critical to keep the exposure balanced with the surroundings above water. The water seems to really eat up light.
Once everything is in place the waiting begins. Red Salmon aren’t too skittish and don’t seem to be bothered by the tank, or me standing on shore. Even so, for the photo to work, the fish has to be very close to the camera, and in just the right position. I spent the better part of the day just to come away with this shot. I like it, but there is a lot of room for improvement. I hope to get back out and try again soon while the Reds still look bright.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Very cool! I really like the half in water half out!
You know what they say, practice makes perfect. ( and at least for us that like to photography at least the practice is fun! )
This is great Ron, there are not enough freshwater over/under shots around – something I have always wanted to start trying around my neck of the woods. The salmon makes for a striking subject.
This is just too cool! I’ve always loved these kinds of shot. MORE MORE MORE MORE!
Killer shot!
Hi Ron, that’s a very impressive image. Water indeed eats light. Even at snorkeling depths, there is almost no reds left if one doesn’t use flash.