"First Position in the Wide Angle Ocean Art Contest 2019 Secured by Nicholas More"
Capturing the Blur of Sweetlips: A Guide to Stunning Underwater Schooling Shots
In the vibrant waters of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, a remarkable photograph titled "Blur of Sweetlips" has surfaced, showcasing the captivating schooling behavior of Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips. This masterpiece was captured during a dive at Saundereck Jetty, using a Nikon D500, Tokina 10-17mm Fisheye Lens, Zen Dome Port, Nauticam Housing, and Dual Inon Z330 Strobes.
To achieve the stunningly blurred background, several photography techniques were employed. The primary method was to use a shallow depth of field, achieved by opening the aperture fully to create a narrow zone of focus. This technique isolates the Sweetlips sharply against a blurred background.
Getting close to the subject and maximizing the distance between the subject and background further enhances the background blur. In this case, the school of Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips was found over a patch of hard corals at approximately 25m. A mid-range to macro lens was used to isolate the subjects in the reef environment.
Controlled lighting was also crucial in reducing backscatter and highlighting the subject. Side or off-axis strobes were used to light the subject without illuminating particles in the water that cause distracting effects. Softer, diffused light reduced harsh shadows and fog-like backscatter, helping the subject stand out.
Post-processing tips included increasing clarity or dehaze slightly to enhance subject-background contrast without sharpening unwanted noise. Adjustments were made to exposure, contrast, and color balance to restore natural colors and make the fish stand out.
For those using smartphone underwater cameras, shooting in macro mode and getting very close to the Sweetlips while increasing distance from the background, along with using optical zoom if available, can aid in achieving the desired blur. Overexposing slightly by opening the aperture and slowing the shutter speed can also brighten the subject and help separate it from a light background, such as a sandy sea floor.
By combining wide aperture, subject proximity, background distance, controlled lighting, and thoughtful post-processing, you too can achieve beautifully blurred backgrounds in your underwater schooling shots of Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips in the rich waters of Raja Ampat. The photograph "Blur of Sweetlips," taken in November 2019, serves as a testament to these techniques.
- To take stunning underwater photographs of schooling Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips, one may consider diving in the vibrant waters of Raja Ampat, Indonesia, using similar equipment such as a smartphone with underwater camera capabilities or a DSLR with a macro lens and strobe lights.
- For those planning a home-and-garden lifestyle makeover, incorporating elements of coral gardens, with their diverse colors and creatures, may add a touch of beach-inspired charm to living spaces.
- During a trip to Raja Ampat, aside from capturing memorable shots of Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips, photography enthusiasts can also enjoy encountering various other critters that inhabit the reef, such as sea turtles and dissymmetrical nudibranchs.
- To enhance the aesthetics of a home-and-garden space, integrating gardening techniques, like creating raised flower beds using reclaimed wood or installing solar-powered water features, can contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
- With a booming underwater photography community, interested individuals can join online discussion forums, clubs, or workshops to learn more about photography tips, techniques, and the latest gear, such as camera settings, strobe positions, and lens choices.
- After capturing underwater images, one can showcase their work at local home-and-garden shows or transform a home office or living room into a gallery, showcasing their unique, blurred schooling shots of Yellow Ribbon Sweetlips, alongside other marine life from their diving experiences.
