Underwater Model Photography
Like art photography and advertising, underwater photography has also become a style in its own right. It needs practice and knowledge to master this technique and depends on certain kinds of cameras and equipments. A diver or other model in the photographs helps the viewer to feel the emotion of the moment, understand a sense of scale and relate to the experience.
By selecting the right model and planning the shots will take you on the way of capturing great photographs that can incorporate the human element. A huge improvement in a wide-angle photo can be made with the use of right tools, correct techniques and clear communication between model and photographer.
- Tools- Wide-Angle Lenses: Wide-angle lens are used in underwater photography as it has to achieve optimal resolution and color. Above water you can capture a full body-portrait from 10 feet away using a 50mm lens, but underwater the distance should be three feet away from the primary object.
- Communication – Hand Signals: The model in underwater photography can be potentially directed. It helps to have a nonverbal communication between the photographer and the model worked out before entering the water. It is crucial to agree on signals under water when a model and underwater photographer work together for first few times.
- The model should regularly look at the photographer for direction to line up the perfect shot. The photographer and model should be capable to react instantly to an opportunity as the things happen very quickly underwater.
- Photographers move their arm horizontally or vertically to tell the model the way he intend to compose the shot.
- Eye contact is crucial as it should direct the viewer of the photo. The photographer taps his facemask to indicate the change and then point to where he prefers the model should look.
- Model in the Foreground: - If the diver is in the foreground, they should be placed such that the photographer can illuminate the diver's eyes. It can be accomplished by using two strobes, where one of them is used to lighten the driver. The model can be primary or secondary object when he or she is in the foreground. The viewer's eye can be pulled through the image by having your model look at other point rather than on the camera.
- Model in the Background: - If the model is photographed in the background, he or she is silhouetted against the blue background or lit by the ambient light. To create pleasing images with the model in background, make sure that both the model and blue water looks good.
- Bubbles or No Bubbles: - Bubbles can sometimes give an authentic look to the image particularly when they do not infringe on other compositional elements. But if you have clean blue space, you have to coach your model how to avoid the bubbles.
If you follow these basic guidelines, you can learn the underwater model photography in no time and can help you to create attractive images and show your creativity.
