As an avid kayak angler over the years I have been given the opportunity to discover the world of photography from my kayak seat. My 6th year taking photos I have decided to write a guide to kayak photography.
Photography from a kayak enables a unique environment which average people cannot access. The ability to become one with natures is key to capturing those moments. From unique landscapes to wildlife action and portrait shots. A new perspective inches from the water surface that most cannot achieve. Untrodden angles generate a unique opportunity to capture light.
Choosing the right Kayak For Photography
The right kayak for photography varies to the users personal preference but also the the users dimensions. Pointers to look for.
- Sit in vs Sit on Top
- Stability
- Paddle vs Pedal
- Electric Motor
Sit in vs Sit on Top Pros & Cons. A sit in kayak offers benefits for your gear. Storage and the ability to keep your gear our of the elements. A sit on top allows more maneuverability.
Stability is a must. Holding your camera still is necessary especially in low light conditions. Choose a kayak that is stable and easy to stand kneel and lean on.
Paddle vs Pedal. Hands free is your friend. Paddling can be tough with having the paddle get in the way. Water droplets hitting your gear happen also.
Pedaling affords a more hands free solution without the water droplets getting on your gear.
Electric Motor is the best option [where foot controlled steering can be utilized for true hands free operation. Also you may hold in place in the wind a bit easier!
Equipment:
Personally I prefer to use a SLR or Mirror less camera with a good all around lens. I shoot with budget gear. I feel that budget gear is the best solution when it comes to kayak photography. A kayak as your platform can be tough on your gear. It’s a wet dirty environment with temperature fluctuations. All these things electronic equipment doesn’t play well with.
Using a lower end body such as a Canon 700 series you can make up for with good glass. I prefer the less weight compared to a full frame SLR. The smaller APC sensor wont loose much DPI in the images.
Protecting your investment.
The kayak although a great platform for photography also can be dangerous for your gear. One of the dangers is dropping your gear overboard. The other is weather dependency. Keeping your gear protected is the best option for its longevity.
Kayak photography is performed in a harsh environment. This can take a toll on your equipment. Follow these steps to maximize the life of your gear.
- Use some type of rain gear to keep precipitation off of it.
- Always protect your lens glass with a UV filter.
- Minimize lens changes in dirty wet or windy areas.
- Wipe any moisture quickly
- Clean all of your gear after any shoot especially in saltwater environments.
- Use a waterproof case or bag when not in use.
Waterproof case options.
- Dry Case – Brunswick
- Pelican Box
- NRS Dry Bag
- Watershed Chattooga Dry Bag w/ Photo Kit Plus™
When I started taking my SLR on the kayak realizing that this was a tough environment investing in a low budget option is an NRS dry Bag with a padded insert. This will protect your gear from splashes, rain, or a dunk. However will not really protect from shock or drops. Also are limited to a camera body and lens. This is all that will comfortably fit and be easily used.
I have used the DryCase Brunswick backpack for years. Added a padded insert to protect my camera and lenses from bumps and drops. This solution worked well for a few years. Unfortunately the backpack was too clunky and large. It was tough to fumble with and remove my camera quickly then have to roll and clip it closed. However the bag is great for on foot traveling!
The Pelican case is pricey but is the best way to protect your gear and one of the fastest ways to access your camera. Although its pretty large and being that its a hard case its tough to store on your kayak.
Currently for the past 6 months i have been using the Watershed Chatooga Duffel Dry Bag with photo bag & inserts. The dry bag is a good size to stow easily but allows one camera and 2 – 3 lenses with extra storage for my gopros. I love the quick release “Ziploc” style opening for quick access!
Take your Photography to remote areas!
Photography from a kayak allows you the freedom to roam into remote places that most people cannot access. The ability to find the perfect undeveloped landscapes, wildlife in their native habitats, or those kayak fishing action shots!
I have since upgraded to the Watershed Chattooga Duffel Dry bag with Photo kit which adds a padded insert bag and divider inserts to protect even better. The advantage of the Watershed is the unique ziplock style closer.
Duffel Dry bag with Photo kit which adds a padded insert bag and divider inserts to protect even better. The advantage of the Watershed is the unique ziplock style closer.
Being out on the water affords different angles that cannot be acquired from land. The advantage to capture that big sky and the wildlife within the area is a plus on your stealthy kayak!
