Underwater macro photography has become more and more popular each year, as these easy to overlook creatures reveal stunning colors and shapes in miniature. While photographers used to need a large, expensive camera rig to nail that crystal-clear macro shot, modern compact cameras, such as the SeaLife Micro 2.0, are more than capable of capturing photos and video at the super-macro level. SeaLife’s new Super Macro Lens, for the Micro cameras, captures macro images and videos from 3.5 inches to 7 inches. The camera itself is compact and easy to carry on a dive, and the macro lens makes it easy to pull off pro-looking shots. So next time you’re on a dive, ask the guide to point out all the area’s great macro subjects and take a look at a few of our favorites below.
Frogfish
This lie-in-wait predator is the king of camouflage and one of the best photo subjects for macro photography. Add strobes or lights from the Sea Dragon Lighting line to reveal the camouflaged pattern of this perennial diver favorite.
Nudibranch
Nudibranchs come in all different colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a macro photographer’s dream. These tiny nudis all pop in photos when shot either head-on or from an angle.
Ghost Pipefish
Not only are these critters hard to find, they also tend to be difficult to photograph. This challenge, of course, only makes the result more rewarding. Capture the pipefish’s intricate details or photograph the entire scene. Whichever option you choose, patience is key.
Banded Coral Shrimp
Banded coral shrimp help marine life stay clean and free of parasites. You’ll most easily spot these remarkable creatures at night, hidden in nooks and crannies of coral.
Clownfish
No matter if you’re shooting macro or with a regular lens, clownfish are some of the most photogenic creatures in the sea. Set the shot by finding stunning anemone with colorful tentacles to bring out the vibrant colors of the fish. Clownfish are constantly on the move, so trial and error is unavoidable and offers great practice.
All photos are taken with the SeaLife Micro 2.0 Pro 2500 set.
