Perfecting Split-Level Image Composition
In the realm of fly fishing photography, capturing stunning split level (over-under) images has become increasingly popular. This style showcases both the underwater environment and above-water scenery, leveraging the optical strengths of fisheye lenses and domed ports. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to optimize your camera settings and techniques for high-quality split level images.
Lens and Housing Setup
A key component of split level photography is the use of a fisheye lens combined with a large, smooth domed port. The dome minimizes water distortion, helps achieve a sharp split level line, and maintains water surface tension. Position the camera so the waterline intersects the dome’s equator to create a balanced part-above and part-below frame.
Camera Settings
- Aperture: Select a small aperture (high f-stop) such as f/8 to f/16 to maximize depth of field underwater and above water simultaneously, ensuring both halves stay sharp.
- Shutter Speed: Use a fast shutter speed (around 1/500 sec or faster) to freeze water movement and fish action.
- ISO: Set ISO as low as possible for minimal noise, but increase ISO if needed with faster shutter speeds in low light underwater.
- White Balance: Consider white balance preset or custom settings that accommodate both underwater blue/green tones and above-water daylight to maintain natural color balance across the split.
Lighting and Exposure
Shoot in bright, diffused daylight (overcast or open shade) to reduce harsh shadows and balance light above and below. If possible, use a strobe or underwater light for fill lighting underwater, but avoid glare on surface reflections. Meter carefully to avoid overexposure of sky and underexposure underwater; sometimes slight underexposure is preferable underwater for detail.
Composition and Technique
- Stabilization: Stabilize the camera with a rig or tray to minimize shake, and hold it steady at the waterline.
- Angle: Shoot at eye level with fish or target area to capture engaging angles.
- Focus: Use manual focus or focus peaking to focus near the dome equator line, as autofocus can struggle at the split plane.
- Patience: Wait for calm water, as ripples distort the split line. Take multiple shots with varying shutter speeds and focus points to improve chances of a perfect split.
Post-Processing
Correct color and contrast separately above and below the waterline if possible. Use slight sharpening to bring out underwater detail without exaggerating noise. Crop or reframe if necessary to enhance the clarity of the split and subject balance.
These techniques enable sharp, well-exposed, and visually striking split level images that showcase both the underwater environment and above-water scenery in fly fishing contexts. This approach is aligned with best practices common among underwater photographers specializing in action sports and natural environments.
For instance, a professional fly fishing photographer, who has been in the industry since the early 1990s, now routinely shoots split level images with an ISO of 800 and an aperture of f22 using a Nikon D850 camera and a Zen 230mm (9-inch) super dome port.
In conclusion, with the right equipment, camera settings, and techniques, capturing stunning split level images in fly fishing photography is within reach for any enthusiast. Embrace these tips and start exploring the underwater world through the lens of a fisheye!
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