2 replies to this topic

[DaveW]

This "Photography Discussion" mostly contains old posts. Is there a place somewhere here, where folks currently discuss fish photography gear and techniques?

 

I'm just hoping to get my feet wet in still and videophotography of fish while snorkeling, and am really in need of more experienced people to ask questions to.

 

For starters:

1) can I do any good with a GoPro (still and video)?

 

2) Apart from that, are there any affordable ($300 or less) waterproof cameras that folks recommend, that focus close enough to get some decent darter/minnow shots with? (I don't want to get a housing for my new Canon 90D until I have some experience doing this with a camera that is already waterproof).

 

3) I'm also interested in talking to people about how to get streamside shots using a photo chamber (I have one I built, but haven't really tried to use it much yet).

 

Thanks for any tips or direction,

Dave W, Boise

 

 

[Isaac Szabo]

Hi Dave. Unfortunately, with the rise of social media, this forum isn't as active as it used to be. That said, feel free to ask your questions here. I'm sure you'll get a few responses. If you're on facebook, you could also try posting your questions on the NANFA facebook group. 

 

1. Yes, GoPros are quite good for wide angle video. So they are good for videos of things like medium to large fish, schools of fish, and underwater scenes. They aren't quite as good for photos, and they aren't good for close-up videos/photos of small things like darters and minnows. 

 

2. The Olympus TG series of compact cameras are generally regarded as among the best waterproof compact cameras. The current model (TG-6) costs $350 new. They can focus very close for great shots of darters and minnows. They aren't as good for really wide angle scenes as the GoPro unless you get the optional fisheye conversion lens. 

 

3. I'm not all that knowledgeable on phototank photography, but we have quite a few NANFA members who are. Hopefully one of them chimes in here.

[Michael Wolfe]

1. look around for posts here from Josh Porter (maybe EBParks here on the forum) he shoots a lot with his GoPro on a stick and gets some amazing shots. I have used a similar set up and got some decent stuff as well.

2. I also have had good luck with coolpix point and shoots and find them very durable.

3. There are a number of differing opinions on black vs white vs grey backgrounds, and even a few others. Small tank plus a paddle plus a high megapixel camera is the trick. Just get the right combo. Theres some info on the main web page I think.