Kayaking and photography go together like peanut butter and jelly! They are a winning combination. While there can be some challenges as you learn to navigate both together, there is great joy in taking home memories of stunning vistas, curious wildlife, and serene waterscapes.
Here are some tips and thoughts on photography and kayaking.
Preparing to Photograph from a Kayak
Select the Right Kayak
- Getting a stable kayak is key. One with a wide hull or flat deck is optimal. Fishing kayaks are often great for photography as well since they focus on providing a stable platform. If you can stand up and cast from it, then it is stable enough to take good pictures.
- Consider a kayak with good storage opportunities as well. It is helpful to have secure positions for all your photography gear. You also want to have easy access to your equipment so a sit-on-top kayak is usually a better bet. You can keep your camera in front of you as you paddle for quick access.
Choose the Right Gear
- Camera Equipment: You will want to choose a compact, waterproof camera or DSLRs / mirrorless camera with waterproof housing. If you are just beginning, you might want to use your cell phone camera and a waterproof casing. Then you can graduate to more expensive equipment as you grow in your skill and knowledge. Some cameras are water-sealed, but not fully waterproof, then can handle splashes but probably aren’t ideal for kayak. There are never any guarantees that you won’t capsize, so always protect your expensive gear.
- Accessories: A dry bag or waterproof case is an excellent accessory to protect your equipment when not in use. Straps or leashes are also a wise addition to secure your camera to your kayak. (Or to you.) Always consider the worst case scenario and plan from there.
- Stabilization tools: A small tripod or monopod can come in handy in calm water while you wait for the perfect shot. It can help to stabilize your camera. It won’t always be helpful though, especially on active shots or in rough waters.
Put Safety First
- Check the weather and conditions before setting out. You don’t want to be caught unaware with expensive equipment.
- Always wear your personal flotation device. (Don’t just have it available, have it ON.)
- Use leashes, bags, and bungees to secure all equipment to your kayak to prevent loss during capsize.
- Ensure that you leave a float plan with someone back on shore.
Tips on Photographing Scenery & Wildlife from a Kayak
Mastering Composition
- Rule of Thirds: As you frame your image, align your key elements along grid lines. Divide the frame into thirds and make sure your subject is in one of the thirds. This helps to balance the image.
- Low Angles: Take advantage of the kayak’s low position to the water and shoot your photos from the water’s surface to create dramatic perspectives. This also emphasizes reflections.
- Leading Lines: Use natural lines like riverbanks, shorelines, currents, treelines, and horizon to guide the eye. This draws the viewer naturally to the subject of your photograph.
Timing is Everything
- Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset are dubbed the “golden hour” for a reason. This period of time offers soft, warm lighting that enhances colors and textures. It can also be a great time to catch wildlife as it awakens in the morning or settles in for the night.
- Calm Conditions: Quiet waters offer the best conditions for capturing reflections and wildlife activities. Calm waters also mean crisper photos, as you won’t be moving and blurring the images.
Approaching Wildlife
- Be patient: Kayaks are great for a stealthy approach, so move slowly and quietly to avoid disturbing animals. Practice patience. Observe until approaching. Move in small increments.
- Choose your angle: Again, use the kayak to your advantage. Eye-level shots create intimate wildlife portraits, and your seated position in your kayak can lend itself to these powerful images.
Handling Challenges
- Motion Blur: Photographing from a kayak will naturally come with motion challenges. Use fast shutter speeds to freeze action and slower speeds (with stabilization) for interesting motion effects.
- Horizon Alignment: Use the grid lines on your camera to help you level your pictures. Keep the horizon on the lines in your camera’s viewfinder.
- Weather Changes: Always be aware of your surroundings. Weather can change quickly, so make sure you have a plan. Keep dry bags handy and don’t hesitate to abort your plans if needed. Better safe than sorry.
Editing Your Photos
- Plan your photos for the least amount of editing needed. Don’t plan to fix everything in the editor. Enhance colors and contrast subtly. You want to preserve the natural look of your images for the most realistic outcome.
- Some cool effects can be added to water through editing, especially reflections, textures, and lighting. But don’t overdo it.
Sharing Your Work
- Stay organized: It is wise to keep your best shots in albums or galleries for quick access. Tag or label your shots so you can easily find them.
- Build community: Engage with others through social media. Find photography enthusiasts and kayaking friends to exchange tips and experiences.
Kayak photography lets you capture breathtaking moments from unique vantage points on the water. If you pack your patience and embrace your creativity, you are bound to take home some impressive shots. Happy paddling!