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Capturing the Beauty Beneath the Surface - How to Take Underwater Photos

Updated: Jan 21


How to take photos underwater - Plunge Waterwear | UV swimwear | UPF 50+ | DiveSkin | Dive skin | Wetsuit | Rashguard | freediving | Scuba Diving

Underwater photography is a unique and captivating art form that allows us to delve into the mesmerizing world beneath the surface. As you start out, you'll quickly learn that the right gear can make all the difference in capturing the essence of underwater beauty.


At Plunge Waterwear, we believe that the perfect attire is not only functional but also a statement of style. In this blog post (part 1 of 2), we'll explore the essential tips and advice for underwater photography, highlighting why our rashguards are the ideal companion for photographers seeking both comfort and performance.


The Allure of Underwater Photography

Underwater photography opens a portal to a world of vibrant marine life, intricate coral formations, and the play of light in the depths. The challenge lies in translating this enchanting scene into stunning visuals. Whether you're snorkeling in shallow reefs, diving into the abyss, or capturing the tranquility of freshwater springs, the right equipment can enhance your experience and bring your creative vision to life.


Why Plunge Waterwear Rashguards?


1. Comfortable and Functional Design

Our rashguards are meticulously designed to provide optimal comfort and functionality. Crafted from a special blend of materials, they offer a snug fit without compromising on flexibility. This is crucial for underwater photographers who need freedom of movement to frame the perfect shot. The lightweight and breathable fabric ensures that you can focus on your photography without being restricted.


2. Sun Protection for Extended Sessions

Photographers often spend extended hours in the water, and prolonged exposure to the sun can take a toll on the skin. Plunge Waterwear rashguards are not just about style; they are crafted with UPF 50+ protection, shielding you from harmful UV rays. This feature is especially vital for underwater photographers who often find themselves immersed for extended periods -- Not to mention, sunscreens wear off quickly in the water, and most are harmful to our reefs. Opting for a full body rashguard is the more eco-friendly choice, and you won't have to watch the clock and worry about when to re-apply!


3. Vibrant Designs for Style and Visibility

Expressing your personal style is as important as capturing the perfect shot. Our rashguards come in a variety of vibrant colors and unique patterns, ensuring you stand out both above and below the water. The vivid designs also serve a practical purpose by enhancing visibility, making it easier for your fellow photographers or dive buddies to spot you (although we hope that when you dive, you've got a buddy system in place!)


4. Durable for Every Dive

Underwater photographers face unique challenges, from the corrosive nature of saltwater to the wear and tear of constant movement. Plunge Waterwear rashguards are built to last. The high-quality materials and reinforced stitching ensure durability, making them the ideal choice for photographers who demand gear that can withstand the rigors of underwater adventures. They'll last dive after dive without showing signs of wear.


5. Versatility for Different Environments

Whether you're exploring the colorful coral gardens of the tropics or the mysterious depths of freshwater caves, our rashguards are versatile enough to adapt to various environments. From the warm embrace of tropical waters to the cooler temperatures of deeper dives, our rashguards offer the right balance of insulation and breathability.


Tips for How to Take Photos Underwater

Now that we've explored why Plunge Waterwear rashguards are the perfect choice for underwater photographers, let's delve into some tips to enhance your photography:


1. Master Your Equipment

Familiarize yourself with your camera and underwater housing. Practice adjusting settings without looking to ensure you can make quick changes in the midst of a shoot.


Let's Talk Cameras...

When it comes to capturing underwater moments, choosing the right camera is crucial. When learning how to take photos underwater, there are many camera options to choose from.


Action cameras like GoPros have become immensely popular for their compact size, durability, and ease of use. These tiny powerhouses are built to withstand the elements, making them perfect companions for water adventures. Their wide-angle lenses capture expansive scenes, and they often boast impressive frame rates for smooth video recording.


On the other hand, traditional cameras, such as those from the Sony lineup, bring a different set of advantages to the table. These cameras often feature larger sensors and interchangeable lenses, providing greater control over aspects like depth of field. This flexibility can be especially advantageous for professional underwater photographers who want to achieve a specific artistic vision.


No matter which you choose, you should always protect your camera with underwater housing. There are many options to choose from, and even if your camera says "waterproof", please note it's only down to a certain depth. Usually 30' or less, so to be on the safe side, and avoid damaging your camera, we always recommend using a type of housing.


2. Perfect Buoyancy

Maintaining neutral buoyancy is crucial to avoid disturbing marine life and getting the best shots. Practice buoyancy control in shallow waters before attempting more challenging dives.


3. Patience and Observation

Great underwater shots often require patience. Take the time to observe marine life and their behaviors, allowing you to capture more natural and candid moments.


4. Play with Natural Light

Understanding how light behaves underwater is essential. Experiment with natural light angles to capture the play of sunlight on the ocean floor or the dappled effect in freshwater environments. Strobes, or other lights for night dives are a world in themselves -- It's probably best to master your technique and camera settings during the day, then advance to night photography with lighting.


5. Focus on Composition

Compose your shots thoughtfully. Pay attention to the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing to create visually appealing and impactful photographs.


Capturing the beauty beneath the surface is a rewarding endeavor, and having the right gear can make the experience even more enjoyable. Plunge Waterwear rashguards not only offer the functionality and comfort essential for underwater photography but also add a touch of style to your aquatic adventures. Dive into the depths with confidence, knowing that you have the perfect companion for both style and performance.


As you embark on your underwater photography journey, let Plunge Waterwear be your trusted ally. Explore our collection today and elevate your water photography to new depths of excellence. In the next part of this blog post (part 2 of 2), we'll cover tips and tricks for editing your photos...didn't you know capturing the shot is only half the battle?!


Update: Part II of this post is now live and you can read it here: https://www.plungegear.com/post/how-to-edit-underwater-photography


Happy shooting!







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