surf photography tips

[garybu]

Have only just got a digital camera for xmas:) . Knowing absolutely nothing about digital cameras or cameras except that they take pitchures if u press the right button I was just wondering if anybody would post a few tips etc. Dont be scared to post the obvious as I'm starting from a low knowledge base. The camera I have is a canon powershot A75 with the WP-DC30 housing. Things I have learnt so far include

1. probably best not to use nickel cadium rechargeable batteries they dont last very long or I didn't recharge them properly.
2. it might be best to take a cloth with me in surf to wipe housing near lens as the wax from my bodyboard seems to rub on it.
3. I need to get some type of strap for camera to fix to my arm when I want to catch waves as the camera gets in the way when I want to launch for a take off.

[merrrrjig]

if you are going to be shooting under water you might want to get a filter, you can find them on ebay or you can most likely order them from the accessory sheet you got with your camera, You should just get a bodyboarding leash and attach it, or a surfboard leash and attach it to your feet, I would also get a hand strap in addition to the leash.

[Volatile]

I agree with the bodyboard leash for your camera. Get the one that coils up, that should help keep it out of the way.

One issue you will face for these pictures is the lighting. Make sure you are going at the right time of day so you are not shooting up-sun and catching wicked backlighting and glare. Sometimes moving up and down the beach will help this, or if you're in the water, choose the correct side of the break. I might be spoiled living on Oahu, since I can shoot the north shore in the morning and south shore in the evening. Plus, I have ample opportunity with surf happening year-round. My only problem is that I'm usually in the water, not on the beach taking pictures...

I'll post some examples later when I get home.

[Volatile]

so, here's what happens when you shoot facing east in the morning:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v210/Volatile/Canon%20forum/PerryinGlare.jpg

[TJ SURFER]

If you know nothing about surf photography then here are a few tips.

1. Lick the hell out of your port before you paddle/swim out. Then lick it some more.
You want a "thin" layer of water on your port when you shoot. If your shooting water.
Disregard if shooting land.

2. Setting: If it's sunny,... shoot 100ASA color film at 5.6 and 1000 shutter speed.
If it's cloudy,... shoot 400ASA B&W film at the same settings.
You can adjust as needed.

3. Agreed,.... always have the sun at YOUR BACK when shooting surf.

4. Good Luck!!! It's much harder then it sounds to get a A+ surf shot.

Late!!
TJ SURFER

[SurfKahakai]

Wow...back from the dead.

[RbrtPtikLeoSeny]

Hahahaha, wow, I was wondering why he was talking about getting a camera for christmas! :-)

[Jeremywilmotte]

The best tip is just to get out there as often as possible and see whats times of the day work and what angles works best for your camera. i find that in the middle of the day or when the sun is shinning onto the wave and the surfer give you the best results.http://www.maroubramsa.com.au/My%20photography.htm

[PhotosGuy]

WHAT FREAKIN' CAMERA DO YOU HAVE? A little more info would be helpful!?
Failing having that rather important detail, take a look at Virtual Camera:
Cameras Interactive aims to help novice photographers grasp the main concepts of SLR photography.
http://www.camerasinteractive.com/index.php#
Exposure explained: Three gateways for light.
http://www.canon.co.jp/Imaging/enjoydslr/p_2_005.html
Exposure - Low Tech Tips
http://www.photonhead.com/exposure/
SimCam
http://www.photonhead.com/exposure/simcam.php

[pouncat12]

hey im trying to do the same thing but accualy attach the camera to my board any advise

[howzitboy]

just buy a gopro camera for surfing (has waterproof housing). they come with the suction cups that are pretty strong. u can take video and stills with it.