How We Capture Stunning Coral Photos
Our Gear:
For capturing professional-level photos, we use a mix of top-tier gear tailored to different needs:
- iPhone 15: For everyday shots, we rely on the iPhone 15, which offers stunning image quality and ease of use.
- Sony A7III: For those moments when we need a bit more precision and control, we bring in the Sony A7III, a mirrorless powerhouse that delivers incredible resolution and clarity, perfect for capturing the intricate details of coral and reef life.
- Sony FX3: For videos, we switch to the Sony FX3, which ensures smooth, cinematic footage even in complex underwater lighting.
- Osmo Pocket: In certain situations, especially for quick or compact shots, we also use the Osmo Pocket for its portability and smooth stabilization.
Our Lens:
When it comes to macro shots, we use the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G-master Lens with a macro attachment. This lens is perfect for capturing the fine textures and intricate details of corals, such as polyp extensions. It provides:
- Excellent color accuracy.
- The ability to shoot from a comfortable distance, ensuring the corals aren’t disturbed.
- Built-in Image Stabilization (IS) for sharp, crisp images, even in dynamic conditions like water flow.
Lighting Settings:
To enhance the vivid fluorescence and natural colors of our corals, we use a customized lighting setup featuring Ecotech Marine Radion XR30 Blues with the following settings:
- 100% Violet
- 100% UV
- 100% Deep Blue
- 50% Blue
We also fine-tune the white balance for every shot, ensuring the colors match what you would see in a well-lit reef aquarium.
With all this gear and attention to detail, we ensure each coral looks as vibrant and lifelike in the photo as it does in person. This way, you can easily imagine it thriving in your own reef.
