Photography Hints for Antarctica

Antarctica offers some of the world’s most challenging conditions for photography, but also some of its greatest rewards. We will explore shining icebergs, cobalt blue ice tongues, the edges of great mountains and of course the plenty of wildlife - which also means bright light and high contrast in an overwhelmingly snowy environment.

Photography Etiquette

When photographing wildlife, never surround a single animal or group of animals. Try to form a semi-circle to leave an unspoiled background. Never harass wildlife for the sake of photography. Remember that photography isn’t over when your shutter clicks; retreat from your subject in the same way you approached.

Respect the rights of other photographers. Allow others to get a clear shot before walking into their view. Also, be aware that those with video cameras are recording sights and sounds.

Protecting your cameras

To keep cameras dry in the Zodiacs, you can use float bags (available at good camera stores). These durable, waterproof bags come in all sizes and can be inflated to ensure your camera will float if it falls in the water. Alternatively you could put your camera in a plastic bag or use a waterproof case that floats; there are many brands and sizes available. These cases seal and have foam lining for extra protection. A supply of zip-lock plastic bags is recommended as extra protection for camera and personal effects.

When going from the air-conditioned ship into humid, warm air, condensation can develop on your camera and lens. To prevent this, place your camera and lens inside a plastic bag, expel the air and seal it. Be sure to keep your lens cap on so that the condensation will occur only on the camera body. In about 10-15 minutes, you camera should be acclimatised.

Photography Supplies

If using digital cameras, you’ll need to store the images, either on your laptop computer, or a digital storage device, that can carry the images until you get back to your computer. There are no facilities on board to download and store images.

Handy Hint Checklist

Read and bring your manuals
Bring lens paper and cleaning fluid
Pack your battery charger or spare batteries
Pack extra film/tape/memory sticks
Pack electronic flash/tripod
Soft cloth for cleaning lens
Waterproof bag
Identify subject (look for interesting behaviour as well as beauty)
Frame shot carefully
Open aperture 1 stop in bright light and glare.
Close aperture 1 stop when subject is dark.
Increase shutter speed when shooting from moving ship or Zodiac
Focus carefully and hold camera still.
Respect the rights of people, wildlife and fellow photographers