Strong contrasts, moving elements and repetitive angles of view are as many constraints that must be taken into account to succeed in taking river pictures. But you can have fun, even with a simple smartphone. Here are the main pitfalls to avoid, and our advice for everyone to get the best possible images from the equipment they have.
From the shore
There is no lack of subjects, starting with life on board and situational portraits of the crew. On the other hand, photographing the shore from the boat rarely gives good results: the boat is missing in the image... It is more rewarding to stand on land to capture the boat in its element, or during a maneuver.
The best profile
The boat is a star to which some angles suit better than others! We generally obtain dynamic images of 3/4 front, but we will take care to vary the points of view by taking height, or by going down to the water. Whenever possible, incorporating a foreground adds interest and relief to the image.
Sooner or later, we make good pictures!
At sunrise and sunset, the light is more beautiful, with softened shadows, warm colors and a modeling that sublimates all subjects. These are the "golden hours". In the morning everything is beautiful, the only secret is to be up at that moment! The necessary equipment: an alarm clock so as not to miss this brand new light.
Choose your side
Inevitably, one side is better lit than the other. It is therefore up to the photographer to plan which one to stand on so that the subject and its environment are not in the shade, or in backlight. It is all the more important that there are not bridges everywhere and that it is not always easy to cross if you have not planned well.
An ephemeris in your pocket
The photographer's best friend is called Photo time. It is a free application for smartphone. It displays for each location and at any time, the orientation of the sun and the golden hours. It will help you predict the best angles, so you can make sure you are in the right place at the right time.
Heron, little skunk...
The birds of the water's edge can be seen, but not always photographed. Sometimes we can observe the kingfisher on the lookout before it dives. The heron has its habits: when the boat penetrates its territory, it leaves to land further away. It repeats this dodge several times, then describes a large circle to return to its fishing post. It is there that we must wait for him.
Which image box?
It is not the equipment that makes the photo, but the eye and sensitivity of the photographer! The best camera is the one that remains within reach and in this game the smartphone is unbeatable! Go visit the "Camera" menu of yours, you will discover a "Pro" mode that offers possibilities you never knew existed! Of course, a camera will offer much better results.
Interchangeable lenses
You can use a compact camera, but you will prefer a camera with interchangeable lenses, which will allow you to develop your equipment according to your tastes and means, but especially to the subjects you encounter. One can equip oneself very seriously for a few hundred euros. In any case, not more expensive than a mid-range smartphone.
An objective choice?
Changing the lens allows you to vary the viewing angles. A standard lens offers a result close to what the human eye perceives. A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture the whole scene or landscape, while a telephoto lens will provide a good approximation factor, at the risk of crushing the perspectives. The zoom allows you to go through all the intermediaries with a simple gesture. This is a relevant choice for boats, where it is rarely possible to get close to the subject without getting wet!
In a hostile environment!
The boat is not the safest place for the photo equipment. We will take care never to leave it in sight so as not to tempt an indelicate person. You should avoid direct sunlight and use the shoulder strap, at least by wrapping it around your wrist. Finally, we will prevent shocks by using a sun visor that protects from projections and blows.
Useful accessories!
To protect the front lens, it is best to screw on a UV filter. We will keep at hand optical wiping cloths, and a cleaning pen. This regular wiping is just as crucial on a smartphone where the lens is small in diameter and often handled without care.
A nautical loader
Modern devices are very power hungry, and it is wise to have at least 2 batteries. To always have one charged and available. Treat yourself to a USB battery charger that can be easily used on board, without going through a converter or waiting to be plugged in at the dock. It's inexpensive and perfectly essential!
