MAN AND THE SEA, I 59 



take many pages of technical information to go into the techniques of artificial 

 lighting in deep waters. There are excellent books devoted to the subject. (See 

 Bibliography.) 



Underwater Camera Techniques 



A good technique to ensure not missing any opportunities when exploring 

 is to take along two cameras, one in hand and the other hanging from a neck 

 strap. Each camera might be set for special work: one set at IV2 feet to 3 feet 

 for close-up work and the other set for distance shots; one with color film 

 and the other black and white; one a still camera and the other a motion- 

 picture camera. It is a frustrating experience to have a camera loaded with black 

 and white film when a good color situation presents itself 



Whenever possible, avoid shooting into open water, but try to frame sub- 

 jects with a reef, coral, or a school of fish. Pictures of fishes with people in the 

 background are also interesting and show relative size. Special effects are 

 obtained when subjects are shot against the surface or with back lighting. 

 Generally the best results are obtained with side lighting. Get as close to the 

 subject as possible to avoid pictures without conttast. Underexposing slightly 

 and overdeveloping negatives will increase negative contrast and permit the 

 use of a smaller lens opening for increased depth of field. Sunshiny days are 

 best for color, and then around middav. Avoid fogging and light streaks in 

 the film by reloading in the shade or, if in an open boat, under a canvas 

 or towel. 



The lack of gravity experienced under water permits all sorts of special 

 camera effects equal to the most expensive studio setups. For example, by 

 using the feet for propulsion and handholding a movie camera, one can get a 

 dolly effect as well as all sorts of angle shots. 



For an exciting experience as well as a method that affords wonderful photo- 

 graphic opportunities, put on an aqua-lung with extra weight, and sit on the 

 bottom in an area where there is much life. As soon as the fishes come to 

 see you as an unthreatening part of their environment, they will swarm around 

 you with curiosity or completely ignore you, allowing you to study and photo- 

 graph them in their natural state. 



Underwater photographic technique is by no means standardized. There is 

 much that the photographer can still do toward evolving new techniques. 



Underwater Housings 



In order to take pictures under water, it is necessary to have a watertight 

 case for your camera. If you own one of the more popular cameras, such as 

 the Robot, Ditto, Leica, Argus, Rolleiflex, Contax, Nikkon, or Canon, there 

 are manufactured cases available. (Write the manufacturer of your particular 

 camera for information.) Inexpensive camera arrangements for the beginner 

 are shown in figure 14. Many photographers build their own cases because 

 of the expense of manufactured models and because many cameras do not have 

 cases designed for them. 



