7 Beginner Tips for Underwater Photography (That Actually Make a Difference)
Whether you're diving in for the first time or bringing your GoPro along on your next ocean adventure, underwater photography is a skill that takes more than just clicking the shutter. But don’t worry you don’t need pro gear or years of experience to capture powerful, emotive shots beneath the surface.
Here are 7 practical tips we share with our guests on Wild Pangea expeditions to help them shoot smarter, with more creativity and purpose.
1. Get Comfortable in the Water First
Before you even think about your camera, make sure you’re totally relaxed in the ocean. Great underwater photos come from being present, buoyant, and calm not fumbling with buttons while struggling with your snorkel.
📌 Tip: Practice floating flat and kicking gently you’ll stay steady and your shots will, too.
2. Shoot in Shallow, Clear Water When Starting Out
Natural light fades fast underwater, and deeper water adds a blue/green tint. Start in shallow areas (3–5 meters) where the light is strong, and your subject will pop with more color and clarity.
3. Use the Rule of Proximity
The ocean swallows light and detail quickly so get close to your subject (but not too close). Water reduces contrast and sharpness, so “fill the frame” as much as possible, while always respecting the animal’s space.
📸 Closer + Slower = Better Shots
4. Keep the Camera Steady
Even the slightest hand movement will blur your image. Float, breathe slowly, and time your shots between movements. Action cameras like GoPro benefit from two hand stability or a tray mount.
5. Shoot Slightly Upward
Want to add drama? Get below your subject and shoot upward toward the surface. This angle brings in more light and creates a beautiful contrast between the animal and the water column above.
6. Mind the Sun
Position the sun behind you for even lighting or play with backlighting if you're ready to experiment. Morning and late afternoon provide softer, richer tones than midday.
7. Edit with Purpose
Underwater photos often need a little love in post. Boost contrast, adjust white balance, and recover shadows. But keep it real aim for natural tones that reflect how it felt to be there, not neon blue oceans or over-processed subjects.
🌊 Join us for evening editing sessions on our expeditions to get hands-on guidance tailored to your images.
Final Thought: Focus on the Story
Your best underwater photo might not be the sharpest it might be the one that tells a story. The moment of eye contact with a whale calf, the curve of a stingray wing, the silence before a breach. These are the moments that last.
