The Myth of Expensive Gear
Your phone is already a capable underwater camera. Computational photography compensates for many limitations.
Choosing a Waterproof Case
- Rated to at least 40m/130ft
- Optical glass port — plastic creates distortion
- Physical buttons — touchscreens fail underwater
The Three Rules
Rule 1: Get Close, Then Get Closer
Water absorbs light and color. Get within 2-3 feet of your subject.
Rule 2: Shoot Up, Not Down
Shooting downward produces flat images. Shooting upward creates dimension and catches light rays.
Rule 3: Stabilize Before You Shoot
- Achieve neutral buoyancy
- Stop kicking entirely
- Brace against a rock if possible (never coral!)
- Take multiple shots
Color Correction
- Red filter on the case — adds warmth in real-time
- Post-processing — use Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile
What to Photograph First
Start with slow or stationary subjects: coral formations, sea stars, sleeping turtles.
The Best Photo Is the One You Take
A slightly blue photo of a turtle you saw in Cozumel is infinitely more valuable than the perfect shot you never took.