Wherever
you may cruise, you’ll want to capture some beautiful images to preserve and
share your memories. But, taking good (or great) photos while on a cruise takes
some special know-how, starting with how to handle the movement of the ship.
Anytime
you take a photo onboard, the movement of the ship, however gentle, can make
the camera shake a little, which can result in blurred images. Tripods don’t
really help because they can’t mitigate the movement. Instead, use your body to
steady your camera: spread your feet a bit wider than usual, hold your elbows
close to your torso, and hold your camera with both hands. Depending on the
angle you want, you can also literally lie down on your stomach (but not if
you’re in a high-traffic area) and use the deck to steady the camera.
On
ship or onshore, pay attention to the light. Lots of cruise ports are in sunny
climates, but the sun may not be your friend when you’re taking a photo. The
basic rule is not to take a photo when facing the sun (unless it’s a selfie,
and your camera is reversed toward your face). If the sun is behind who or what
you’re photographing, you’re likely to capture a lot of shadows. Also, when on
or near the water – whether it’s the ocean or the onboard swimming pool – be
careful that the sun’s glare off the surface of the water doesn’t wash out your
image.
Another
lighting tip is to take photos during the “golden hour” just after sunrise and
just before sunset (“hour” is figurative, but it gives you an idea of when you
can take advantage of the best light of the day). When the sun is low in the
sky, it gives a softer, more diffused light than in the middle of the day,
which is flattering to photography subjects.
Finally,
some photo-worthy cruise moments can be planned or anticipated, but many are
spontaneous. So, stay alert for photo opportunities and have your camera ready,
or at least close to hand. Part of being ready for unexpected photo
opportunities is understanding the layout of your ship so that when the crew
announces a wildlife sighting off the ship’s bow, stern, port side or starboard
side, you’ll know the quickest way to get there to photograph the moment.
To
select a cruise destination that will produce wonderful photo opportunities for
you, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel
