Jellyfish have at all times been a supply of fascination for underwater photographer Jake Wilton, who’s been capturing the great thing about these animals for greater than a decade.
Forward of World Jellyfish Day on November 3, Jake shares his high suggestions for photographing the wonders down below with us.
Grasp your dive expertise
Turning into snug and expert within the water when both scuba or snorkeling is crucial to photographing animals. When diving turns into second nature it means that you can focus in your images and earn higher wildlife interactions.
Be affected person and respect the animals
You wouldn’t stroll right into a nationwide park and chase after a kangaroo along with your digicam as quick as you could possibly as a result of it would flee or defend itself. The identical goes for underwater wildlife. I usually see folks swimming off, chasing animals like turtles for a “higher” picture. If you’re affected person and let the animal get snug along with your presence then it would yield higher outcomes to your images and extra importantly for the welfare of the animal.
Scuba or snorkel?
Decide the appropriate sort of diving for the scenario. Some locations just like the Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia are good for snorkeling whereas different locations just like the Nice Barrier Reef in Queensland are finest fitted to scuba diving.
Analysis
Data of an animal is essential. Positive, you’ll be able to have unbelievable and fortunate encounters however the very best pictures are practically at all times a results of time and planning. Analysis your topic’s behaviour, the place they’re mostly discovered, time of yr — something that can assist maximise your probabilities of a profitable encounter.
Study your gear
You don’t want a professional stage mirrorless or DSLR digicam to take nice underwater pictures. Many individuals are shocked what a couple of digicam setting hacks and methods for his or her mannequin of digicam can do for his or her high quality of photographs. YouTube is your finest buddy!
Have enjoyable and benefit from the second!
Many individuals spend the entire time within the water trying from behind the digicam, usually lacking out on experiencing what makes the ocean so particular. Keep in mind to dive or snorkel first and take photographs second. Benefit from the second and if an animal hangs round for just a little longer than normal — it would make for the proper topic, leading to an excellent expertise and an excellent picture.
Jake Wilton is a Nikon Australia companion, you’ll be able to comply with him on social media through @jakewiltonphoto.
