Arun Gupta, Miles to go ...

Arun Gupta is a technology enthusiast, a passionate runner, and a community guy who works for Sun Microsystems.

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Sunday December 24, 2006

Took our son to Monterey Bay Aquarium earlier today so here are some tips that I read before going. I'll post a blog later with photos and usefulness of these tips in terms of my experience.

General tips for aquarium photography

NEVER use built-in flash. If possible, use external light from the top and/or the sides, but not from front of the tank. Otherwise use only tank lighting.
Slow shutter speed or larger aperture (smaller depth-of-field), higher ISO, and manual focus.
1. Consider using smaller aperture (higher depth-of-field) so that fish movements can be captured.
2. Use burst shooting when the fish is in the sweet spot.
Use a tripod, especially for close up or macro photos (use the "Digital Vari-Program Macro", tulip on the left side command dial, mode).
Place the camera perpendicular to the glass and subject.
If taking picture of a fish, focus on a spot and wait for it swim into view.
Take more than one picture so that you can select the best.
Live plants, rocks, driftwood and gravel are the best backgrounds. Make sure you conceal any electric cords or air tubing away from sight.

If possible, follow the guidelines below

Clean the aquarium glass from both inside and outside.
Completely darken the room to help avoid reflections.
It is always best to take pictures in the highest setting/best quality possible, if you have enough spare cards.

Here are some of the articles I read:

_{Technorati: nikon d80
digital photography
aquariumphotography
dslr}_tips

Posted by Arun Gupta in photography | Comments[2]