Whether you are a seasoned diver or new to snorkeling tours, having a camera as part of your diving equipment will let you capture beautiful scenery and marine life. Underwater photography is a great memento from each excursion, but getting the right shot takes a little planning. Here are four factors to remember.

What to Consider for Great Underwater Photos

1. Water & Weather

Consider conditions before heading out. Calm water around noon provides optimal clarity and natural lighting. On the other hand, waves and currents will not only affect your shots, but can also be dangerous, especially rough rip currents.

2. Equipment Check

While a GoPro® and pricier underwater cameras will get you nice results, the lenses and lighting matter more. A macro lens is good for closeups while a fisheye will capture wider views. Prepare a charged battery and empty memory card for your underwater photography session as well as all of your accessories, such as the housing that protects the equipment from water and flashguns.

3. Settings

Set up your camera settings for success. Smaller apertures will help to focus in the water. The shutter speed must be at 1/400s or faster to capture moving sea life. Set a continuous auto-focus as well to account for the movement around you. Finally, opt for burst mode to take many quick shots from which you can select the best ones.

4. Marine Life

Don’t harm or stress marine life, no matter where your snorkeling tour takes you. Keep your distance from sea creatures, especially endangered species like the Hawaiian green sea turtle or the Hawaiian monk seal, and avoid eye contact. Do not make sudden, thrashing movements. The calmer you are, the less likely your subject will get scared and either lash out or swim away.

For exciting snorkeling tours as well as whale watching and other fun trips in the beautiful waters off Oahu, call EO Waianae Tours. This family-owned company provides everything from catamaran tours to dolphin excursions, during which they provide lunch, snacks, and beverages. To book a spot on their snorkeling tours, call (808) 699-5910 or visit their website.