Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Blog

Small Guide for Photographing Cetaceans with your Smartphone from a Boat

a man swimming in a body of water

Small Guide for Photographing Cetaceans with your Smartphone from a Boat

Seeing whales and dolphins is an incredible experience, and you can capture those moments with your smartphone! Even if you don’t have a professional camera, by following some tips you can get fantastic photos and videos.

1. Setting up your Smartphone (If Possible):

  • Camera Resolution: If your phone allows it, choose the highest resolution for your photos. This will give you more detail to crop or edit later.
  • Video Frame Rate: If you want to record videos of the action, consider using a higher frame rate (like 60 fps). This can make fast movements look smoother.
  • Burst Mode or Continuous Shooting: This is your best friend! Most smartphones have a burst mode (press and hold the shutter button). Use it when the animals are moving to increase your chances of capturing the right moment.
  • Exposure and Focus Lock (AE/AF Lock): If your camera app allows it, tap and hold the screen in the area where you want to focus and expose (usually the animal). This can help prevent the image from being too dark or too bright, and to keep the subject in focus.

2. Your Essential “Equipment”:

  • Secure Grip: Hold your phone with both hands for greater stability, especially when the boat is moving. Consider using a case with a grip.
  • Cleaning Cloth: The marine environment can be splashy. Carry a soft cloth to clean your camera lens regularly to ensure sharp photos.
  • External Battery: You don’t want to run out of battery at the crucial moment! Carry a fully charged external battery.
  • Waterproof Case (Optional but Recommended): If you want to feel more secure against splashes or rain, consider a waterproof case for your phone.
  • Small Binoculars (Optional): Although not for photography directly, small binoculars will help you locate cetaceans at a distance and prepare for when they approach the boat.

3. Composition Techniques with your Smartphone:

  • Get Closer (Within Ethical Limits): Try to get as close as the tour allows to the animals without disturbing them. Digital zoom on smartphones can reduce image quality, so try to rely on it less.
  • Use Zoom Carefully: If you have to use zoom, do so moderately to avoid the image looking pixelated or blurry. Some smartphones have limited optical zoom – take advantage of it if you have it!
  • The Rule of Thirds on your Screen: Imagine two horizontal and two vertical lines dividing your screen into nine equal parts. Try placing the cetacean at one of the points where these lines intersect for a more interesting composition.
  • Include the Environment: Don’t forget about the sea and the sky. Sometimes, a photo showing the animal in its environment can be very impactful.
  • Capture the Action: Be prepared to shoot in burst mode when you see movement. Don’t wait for the perfect moment – sometimes the photos between jumps are great too!
  • Look for Interesting Angles: Try varying your angles. Sometimes, crouching down a bit or tilting your phone can give you a different perspective.

4. Tips and Tricks for Photographing from a Boat with a Smartphone:

  • Stabilize your Body: Lean against the boat railing for more stability. Sit down if possible during moments of more movement.
  • Anticipate Boat Movements: Try to move with the boat instead of fighting against it. This will help you keep the frame steady.
  • Clean the Lens Regularly: Splashes and fingerprints can ruin your photos.
  • Be Patient: Wild animals are unpredictable. Relax and enjoy the show, and be prepared for when the opportunity arises.
  • Don’t Obsess Over the Perfect Photo: Sometimes, enjoying the moment is more important. Capture what you can and keep the memories in your mind!

5. Quick Editing on your Smartphone:

  • Crop: Crop your photos to improve the composition and get closer to the subject.
  • Adjust Brightness and Contrast: Small adjustments can make your photos stand out more.
  • Editing Apps: There are many free and paid apps that allow you to enhance your photos directly on your phone.

Remember: The best camera is the one you have with you. Enjoy the experience and have fun capturing the beauty of cetaceans with your smartphone!

Web content: upzell.com