Underwater Photography Ideas With Nikon Cameras

Underwater photography is an exciting and different aspect to photography that's really become accessible in the mainstream thanks to the development of tough, waterproof action cameras like the Nikon Coolpix AW130. 

The AW130 is waterproof to 30m, shockproof to 2.1m and freezeproof to -10 degrees centigrade. If you want to have a go at underwater photography on your next holiday, here are a few tips:

Invest in a good strap

Shooting underwater can make it more difficult to grip and keep hold of the camera, especially if you're trying to swim while holding it. A good wrist strap will prevent the camera from sinking to the depths and being lost for good if you lose your grip. You can also purchase ones that will float should they become detached from you, making the camera easier to retrieve.

A different perspective

Underwater photography is a great way to capture your holiday break or even day trip from a different angle. Whether you're in the pool or in the sea, have fun by getting people to dive under the water and pose. Try capturing the exact moment someone makes a splash as the jump into the water. If the area around the pool is scenic then try keeping half of the lens underwater and the other half above water for some interesting effects. 

Settings

Images can appear darker and washed out underwater as light behaves differently. Using the built-in flash of the AW130 can help to highlight your subject however this could scare fish so use it sparingly. The deeper you go the less light there will be and the more chance you'll have to use the flash.

The AW130 features Hybrid Vibration Reduction to help keep your images sharp, handy with the constant movement underwater shooting brings. 

Conditions

Ideally you want the clearest water possible for underwater photography. Windy or choppy conditions can often cause silt and sand from the river bed or ocean floor to lift up and create a fog-like haze to your images. Still, shallow waters a likely to gain you the best results when shooting in natural environments. The hotel pool should be pretty clear allowing for those fun family shots.