How to Capture Paradise: Photography Tips for Stunning Maldives Memories -

Capturing the beauty of the Maldives is a difficult task for even the most experienced shutterbugs. Due to the abundance of sunlight and natural surroundings, shooting snapshots of Maldivian landscapes requires a special set of skills and gear. From timing the photo shoots to understanding how light enters the camera, here are some tips on snapping vacation photos one can be proud of.

Learn the Basics of Working with Natural Light

While it may seem simple to hold up a camera and snap beach shots of some of the world's finest beaches, those who have holidayed in the Maldives understand that the reality is quite different. Although there's no denying the beauty of the spectacular beaches and paradise islands of the Maldives, the bright sunlight that the archipelago enjoys on most days can be a photographer's nightmare. Those who are inept or inexperienced in working with natural light will find that most daytime photos will appear overexposed or washed out when developed. This is due to the fact that there's simply too much natural light in the shots. Professional photographers use the "golden hours" just after sunrise and just before sunset for outdoor shots of the Maldives as these two hours provide the ideal lighting conditions for nature photography.

Gear Essentials

When packing for a holiday at Huvafen Fushi Maldives or any resort island in the country, it's crucial to include the photography equipment required for the trip.  Although the gear will depend on the type of photographs that one hopes to take in the Maldives, packing a waterproof camera is a must for a getaway in the islands. Wide-angle lenses will also come in handy for those who intend to take panoramic shots of the ocean during a whale-watching tour. Neutral density filters can also be a lifesaver for those who wish to limit the amount of light entering the camera. As the Maldives offer visitors a plethora of exciting photography opportunities, it's also important to have plenty of memory cards and camera batteries on hand.

Underwater Photography Tips

Photographing the vibrant coral reefs and majestic marine species occupying the sea bed is ranked among the fun things to do in Maldives for all photographers, regardless of age or expertise. The shallow waters as well as the excellent visibility underwater are the main reasons why underwater photography is such a popular pastime in the country. Tourists who intend to take their cameras along for the ride on a scuba diving adventure may want to pack an external flash and their wide-angle lens. Changing the white balance ratio of the camera is also necessary in order to remove the muggy, blue-green colour of the water. Travellers who are serious about photographing underwater landscapes in the Maldives should consider heading to prime snorkelling and diving hotspots with a local guide as they know the suitable locations for photography enthusiasts. It's imperative to respect the integrity of marine environments in the Maldives and refrain from touching, moving or interacting with corals and fish species for photo opportunities.

Exploring New Perspectives

Shutterbugs should not be afraid to experiment with angles and unique points of view when shooting photos in the Maldives. There's no reason to snap the same type of photos that most holidaymakers shoot when surrounded by such dramatic coastal scenes. Using drones or snapping photos from the ground level are innovative steps that photographers can take in the Maldives.

Shooting Cultural Events and Local Communities

From cultural festivals to red-letter events such as the Independence Day parades, photographers should not miss the chance to capture Maldivian community life on film. While it's necessary to secure permission before photographing children and the clergy, tourists will find that their shots improve when they immerse themselves in the festival or local event in question.