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.

  1. Use some type of rain gear to keep precipitation off of it.
  2. Always protect your lens glass with a UV filter.
  3. Minimize lens changes in dirty wet or windy areas.
  4. Wipe any moisture quickly
  5. Clean all of your gear after any shoot especially in saltwater environments.
  6. 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.

Watershed Chattooga

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!

The new Torqeedo “C” Mount Utilizes a 4 molded threaded insert pattern consistent with Power Pole Mounting. Unfortunately the Jackson Kayak Kilroy does not come with this option. I opted to fabricate a custom mounting plate from 1/2″ Starboard then mounting to where the existing handle was located.

If I was to permanently install the mount on the rear of the Kilroy, it would interfere with my car top loading method. To remedy this issue I came up with the idea of utilizing 12″ gear track to slide the mount into a stowed position on loading, then slide out for use. I Drilled the track and countersunk larger holes to allow 1/4 20 bolts to pass through.

The use of Yakattack T bolts & Track Nuts allow quick tightening and loosening of the mount to either stow or retract for use.

The A/C motor install used all of my previous steering. I only had to modify the up/dn line for a longer distance.

Disclaimer:

Installing hardware may cause damage and/or void manufacturer warranties.  ThePlasticHull.net its authors or any other source of information on this website is in no way responsible for your actions nor any type issues or damage that may occur.  The information provided on this website is a free reference guide only. The authors of all information, sponsors and the owners of the website that host this information are not liable for any problems or issues that arise from the use of this information. Users of this information hereby acknowledge that all use of this information is done by their own free will, at their own sole risk, understanding that destruction of property, injury, or death could occur.

Utilizing the new Torqeedo Ultralight Kayak Mount here is images of Rick W’s upgrade install. Rick was previously using the Torqeeod Ultralight 403 Ball mount system. Since his 2014 Big Rig has the four molded in inserts at the stern designed to accept the Power Pole Micro anchoring system the installation was done with ease.

Rick’s Install Notes:

“Once I figured out how I wanted to secure, it was pretty straight forward. I used 1.5 inch screws in front holes and secured the level with locknut underneath. Sets correct heights and makes mount very stable. Second set of holes was 1.25 inch screws, no need for nut as the mount rests on the hull in very back. Perfect fit with single washer on top. As far as steering, I dropped the triangle a bit and let the connectors run under the mount. Seems to work perfect and stays clear of the mount, even with complete turn radius. I use foot turning, installed with initial setup a few years back. Tremendous improvement over the arm and am ready for the water.”

Nice work Rick! Looks Great!

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