FAQ about water photography
Yesterday I released the first series of my Salty Sessions posters. The premiere took place at Makers Market, an event that marked the closing of the month-long exhibition We Make The Hague.
I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came by my stand, took the time to chat with me, purchased posters and postcard-sized photos, or inquired about custom-sized prints.
I was stoked to hear that some of you recognized my work from Instagram. What a blast!
You all made my day. I didn’t expect such warm reactions, feedback, and support. Thank you!
photo: Bart-Jan Verhoef
Many of you asked questions about water photography, as it’s not the most common niche, especially when we talk about dark waters of the North Sea. I thought this might be a good opportunity to put all the questions together and answer them at once.
Here we go.
1. WHAT CAMERA DO YOU USE FOR WATER PHOTOGRAPHY?
My go-to camera for water photography is the Sony A6400.
2. WHAT FOCAL LENGTH DO YOU USE FOR WATER PHOTOGRAPHY?
Most often, it’s Sony 35mm f1.8. Sometimes, I use the Sigma 19mm, but it’s not my favorite.
3. WHAT HOUSING DO YOU USE FOR THE CAMERA?
I use the second generation Seafrogs housing from the Sony A-xxxx line. It's a pretty affordable option.
4. HOW LONG DOES A PHOTOSHOOT TAKE?
I usually spend 1 to 1.5 hours in the water.
5. DO YOU SHOOT AT SUNRISE OR SUNSET?
I almost always shoot at sunset.
6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF DAY FOR WATER PHOTOGRAPHY?
My favorite time is just before sunset when the sun touches the horizon.
7. DO YOU GET COLD IN THE WATER?
My hands can get pretty cold, but my body stays warm. I wear a thick wetsuit and boots for the really cold days.
8. DO YOU LIKE BIG WAVES?
I have a lot of respect for the sea, so I avoid rough waters. Also, for the type of photos I enjoy the most, I prefer calmer days.
9. DO YOU GO DEEP INTO THE WATER TO TAKE PICTURES?
Not really. I usually shoot at waist level, and sometimes I go a bit deeper, but I never lose contact with the sea floor.
10. ARE YOU A SURFER?
Nope. I tried surfing but realized I enjoy taking surf photos more than surfing itself. Maybe someday!
11. WHAT ELSE DO YOU USE BESIDES THE CAMERA?
My standard set includes the camera, housing, wetsuit, optional boots, rain-free spray for the housing port, wrist strap, and drinking water/hot tea.
12. WHEN DID YOU START SHOOTING WAVES?
I started in spring 2023. Last year was much more intense for water photography than this year.
13. WHAT MODE DO YOU SHOOT IN?
I mostly shoot in shutter speed priority mode. The faster the shutter speed, the better.
14. HOW MANY GOOD PHOTOS DO YOU GET FROM A SESSION?
Sometimes I come back with just one good photo, other times I get a few keepers.
15. WHY DO YOU LIKE WATER PHOTOGRAPHY?
Being in the water with my camera feels like meditation to me. It’s all about the present moment - full focus, no distractions.
I also hope that the photos from my water sessions will allow those who don't have the opportunity to experience the sea on a daily basis (whether due to distance or personal limitations) - to feel the salt of the sea on their skin without having to leave home.
I almost forgot…
Posters with water photographs will be available online from the 1st of October in my webshop. As always, those who subscribe the newsletter, will get 10% discount. Friendly note: the introduction price and free shipping will only apply in October.
Thank you once again for your support. Houdoe, and see you next time!