Memorializing that perfect catch with the perfect photo has long been the pride of fishermen everywhere. You’ll want to use your best photos for use in your Dream Sporting Trips listing, any blogs you publish and, of course, on social media.
No longer is it necessary to spend thousands of dollars on a good camera, so you can put that money toward new fishing gear! A simple, yet high resolution camera will do the job just fine.
Tip #1
Got batteries? Don’t make the mistake of not checking to be sure your camera's working before you head out. Are the batteries fresh? Are your memory cards erased? Be sure to switch to your camera's "outdoor light" settings for best results.
Tip #2
Keep it handy. Don’t miss that once-in-a-lifetime shot while you’re digging under pounds of fishing gear, your cooler, or your boat. Keep your camera within easy reach such as a pocket of your vest or slung around your neck. A small (waterproof) dry bag that can easily be slipped into a pocket will come in handy for protecting both your camera or even your cell phone.
Tip #3
Beware of condensation. Just like your glasses, your camera can "sweat" and fog up when suddenly taken into a humid or hot environment from the cool air of A/C. For best results, allow your camera to get acclimated to its environment for a full hour before you use it.
Tip #4
Use the macro setting. For close-ups, try using the macro setting. On most cameras, the icon for this setting is a small flower. Using the macro setting will allow you to fill the frame of your picture with a close-up of your subject.
Tip #5
Think off-center. Centered images are sometimes boring. Try experimenting with capturing your focal point off center for more visual interest.
Tip #6
Beware of distractions in the photo. Is there a mast or a tree limb just behind the subject of your photo that will look as though it’s growing out of your buddy’s head later? Are there tourists in the background whose images might distract from the focal point when viewed later? By being aware of these things while aiming, and readjusting your position as needed, your photos will look even more professional.
Tip #7
Steady as she goes. Take a breath and hold it while you shoot. It can also help to brace your hands and pull your arms into your body while shooting, too. The reason too many shots don't turn out is that the camera moved during the photo, producing a bit of blurring. Holding your breath while shooting can help significantly.
Tip #8
Take 3x as many photos as you normally would. This is especially important when shooting fish as they don't typically slow down to pose for photos when in the water, making the shot as challenging as hooking the trophy in the first place. The more shots you can rip off in a few seconds, the better.
Tip #9
Get up close and personal. Fill the frame with your subject. Here’s a good rule of thumb: whenever you take your next image of friend, fish, camp, etc., get 2x as close as you normally would and take several shots. You can select the best one later.
Tip #10
Keep the sun at your back. Colors are much more vivid if the subject is facing sunlight and when not in shadow. The magic hour of photography is just after sunrise and just before sunset when the sun is low on the horizon. You'll find that the sunlight during the magic hour provides a warmer, richer light. Try it and see!
Give these tips and try and then hit us with your best shot! We'd love to see and share your photos. Share them on Facebook or email them to us at info@dreamsportingtrips.com
