Capturing the beauty of Bali's underwater world requires more than just a waterproof camera. This guide will help you take stunning underwater photos that truly showcase the magic beneath the waves.
Essential Equipment
Camera Basics
- Waterproof housing for your camera or phone
- Underwater strobes for proper lighting
- Wide-angle lens for capturing expansive reef scenes
- Macro lens for detailed close-ups
Lighting is Everything
Underwater photography presents unique lighting challenges. Water filters out colors, especially reds and oranges, as you descend deeper.
Key lighting tips:
- Use external strobes whenever possible
- Get close to your subjects
- Shoot upward toward natural light when possible
- Consider the "golden hours" for best natural lighting
Composition Techniques
Rule of Thirds Underwater
The classic rule of thirds applies underwater, but with some modifications:
- Position coral formations along the grid lines
- Use the surface or seafloor as natural horizons
- Include negative space for dramatic effect
Getting Close
Water reduces contrast and sharpness, so getting closer to your subject is crucial:
- Move slowly to avoid disturbing marine life
- Use macro settings for small creatures
- Fill the frame with your subject
Technical Settings
Camera Settings for Clear Water
- ISO: Keep as low as possible (100-400)
- Aperture: f/8-f/11 for good depth of field
- Shutter Speed: 1/125s or faster to freeze motion
- White Balance: Set to underwater mode or custom
Dealing with Particles
Bali's waters can sometimes be murky. Here's how to handle it:
- Avoid using flash directly toward particles
- Angle strobes to illuminate your subject, not the water column
- Get as close as possible to minimize water between you and subject
Marine Life Photography
Approaching Sea Life
- Move slowly and deliberately
- Never chase or harass animals
- Use zoom instead of getting physically closer when stressed
- Observe behavior patterns before shooting
Best Subjects for Beginners
- Coral formations - stationary and colorful
- Sea turtles - slow-moving and majestic
- Anemones and clownfish - predictable locations
- Schools of fish - dramatic and dynamic
Post-Processing Tips
Color Correction
Underwater photos often need color adjustment:
- Increase reds and oranges lost at depth
- Adjust white balance for more natural tones
- Enhance contrast carefully to avoid over-processing
- Use graduated filters for surface shots
Sharpening and Clarity
- Apply gentle sharpening to counteract water's softening effect
- Use clarity adjustments sparingly
- Remove backscatter spots with healing tools
- Crop tightly for maximum impact
Safety While Photographing
Buoyancy Control
- Master neutral buoyancy before focusing on photography
- Never use the reef to steady yourself
- Practice finning techniques that don't disturb sediment
Dive Safety
- Always dive within your certification limits
- Never sacrifice safety for the perfect shot
- Maintain awareness of your surroundings
- Keep your dive buddy in sight
Equipment Care
Post-Dive Maintenance
- Rinse all equipment thoroughly with fresh water
- Dry carefully, paying attention to o-rings
- Store in a dry, cool place
- Check for salt buildup or corrosion regularly
Book your underwater photography session with us and capture your Bali diving adventure with professional-quality images that will last a lifetime!
Book Now
Get instant booking information
Custom Itineraries Available
We create personalized experiences tailored to your interests, schedule, and group size. Whether you want to combine multiple destinations, extend your visit, or focus on specific activities, we'll design the perfect East Bali adventure for you.
_Experience authentic East Bali culture with a local expert who knows every hidden corner and fascinating story of these magnificent sites._
About Amed Ready Tours
Professional snorkeling and tour operator based in Amed, Bali, offering world-class underwater experiences and cultural adventures. We're committed to sustainable marine practices and ocean conservation while providing unforgettable experiences for explorers of all levels.