Taking Aquarium Photos

[Susie Chandler]

Aquariums are a popular destination for photographers of every level
of skill and experience. They provide ample animal subjects of varying
size, shape, and color. Aquatic scenes can be vibrant and dynamic, but
they can also be surprisingly difficult to capture. Many factors
contribute to this fact; from the lighting to the glass of the tanks
to the contained water itself. These simple tips will help you take
great shots on your next trip to the aquarium.
Amateur photographers often don't realize that the lighting in
aquarium calls for some special consideration. The tanks appear bright
to humans because our pupils dilate to allow more light into our eyes.
Our pupils remain open, too, allowing for ample time to process the
light they are receiving. A camera can pull some similar tricks, but
you must remember to employ them when you are taking your aquarium
photos. You should use a larger aperture (smaller F-stop) and extend
your shutter speed. Don't go above 1/60th of a second, however, as the
moving fish are likely to come out blurry. A film speed of ISO 800 is
recommended if you are shooting without a flash. Do your best to
exploit the tank lighting. Aquarium displays are usually lit from the
top, so think about taking your shots from an elevation if this is
possible. Also ensure that you do not use a flash when photographic
light-sensitive creatures.
The glass or plexiglass of the tanks in aquariums can be up to a foot
thick. Both materials distort and bend light, especially at these
dimensions. They are also prone to reflecting a nasty glare whenever a
flash is used. You may need to use manual focus, as the glass can
confuse automatic focusing systems. It is generally a good idea to try
to shoot perpendicularly to the tank, as this will minimize the light-
distorting effects of the material of its walls. If you must use a
flash, then be sure to shoot at at least a 45 degree angle to the wall
of the tank. This will cause some distortion of the subject of your
photo, but it will mitigate the chances of capturing your own flash.
The last substantial hurdle to aquarium photography is all of the
water between your camera and your subject. Watch the clarity of the
water and plan to shoot when the densest concentrations of waterborne
particles have passed. While this should be obvious, you should take
your photo when your subject is closest to the wall of the tank. This
will enhance the quality of the final image. Some aquariums offer
aquarium photography workshops to interested photographers. Consider
these programs if you want to further refine your skills.

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