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Take photographs underwater

Take photographs underwater
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Learn to take underwater photographs using a waterproof camera or sealed phone pouch, practicing framing, lighting, and safe swimming with adult supervision.

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Step-by-step guide to take underwater photographs

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Getting Started in Underwater Photography Made EASY!

What you need
Adult supervision required, floatation aid or pool noodle, goggles, small colorful toys or props, snorkel or swim mask, towel, waterproof camera or sealed phone pouch

Step 1

Gather all Materials Needed and put them by the pool or bathtub.

Step 2

Ask an adult to supervise the whole activity before you start.

Step 3

Check the waterproof camera or sealed phone pouch for any holes or damage.

Step 4

Close the pouch or secure the camera inside according to its instructions.

Step 5

With your adult's help, submerge the empty sealed pouch in shallow water for about 30 seconds to check for leaks.

Step 6

Put on your goggles and any floatation aid you will use.

Step 7

Set the camera to underwater mode or a bright auto setting.

Step 8

Enter the shallow water with your adult beside you.

Step 9

Place a small colorful toy a short distance underwater to use as a subject.

Step 10

Hold the camera steady with both hands and keep your elbows close to your body.

Step 11

Take a close-up photo of the toy while keeping the camera steady.

Step 12

Move back a little and take a mid-distance photo of the toy and background.

Step 13

Take a wide shot that includes more of the pool or the person swimming to show context.

Step 14

Take one creative shot like an underwater selfie or a splash action photo.

Step 15

Share your finished creation on DIY.org.

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Complete & Share
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Help!?

I don't have a waterproof camera or sealed phone pouch — what can I use instead?

Use a disposable waterproof film camera, an action camera with its waterproof housing, or a manufacturer-rated waterproof smartphone case (not a zip-top bag), and still perform the 30-second submerged leak check before using it.

What should I do if water gets into the pouch during the 30-second leak test?

Stop immediately, dry and inspect the pouch, reseal it carefully or replace it with an undamaged pouch or a disposable waterproof camera before proceeding to protect the device.

How can I adapt this underwater photography activity for younger or older kids?

For younger children (about 3–6) do the activity in a bathtub or kiddie pool with an adult holding the sealed pouch and placing the small colorful toy close while the child presses the shutter, and for older kids (8+) let them set underwater mode, practice close-up, mid-distance, and wide shots themselves, and attempt creative shots like underwater selfies.

How can we make the photos more interesting or personalize the project before sharing on DIY.org?

Extend the activity by creating a themed photo series with several small colorful toys, add a waterproof LED or bright pool backdrop, experiment with angles like underwater selfies and splash action shots, then edit the set into a short story to share on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to take underwater photographs

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10 Underwater Photography Tips for EVERYONE

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Facts about underwater photography for kids

🥽 Many waterproof phone pouches and cameras are rated for shallow depths — always test a pouch with a paper towel before putting a device inside.

🌊 Most colorful, well-lit underwater photos are taken in shallow water because natural light drops off fast as you go deeper.

🐠 Red light disappears quickly underwater — by about 5–10 meters most reds look blue or green unless you add light or correct color.

🎯 Underwater framing works best when you get close to your subject; water reduces contrast and detail, so 'zoom with your fins' for clearer shots.

📸 Using a strobe or flash underwater restores colors and freezes motion, but it can also cause backscatter (tiny bright spots from particles).

How do I teach my child to take underwater photographs safely and effectively?

Start in shallow, calm water with adult supervision and a tested waterproof camera or sealed phone pouch. Show your child how to steady the device, get close to the subject, and frame shots with the sun behind them for better lighting. Practice holding breath briefly while exhaling slowly, use short bursts to capture motion, and review photos together to talk about composition and lighting. Keep sessions short and fun.

What materials do I need for a child to learn underwater photography?

You’ll need a waterproof camera or a sealed phone pouch rated for the intended depth, a float strap to prevent loss, snorkel mask or goggles, protective case or dry bag, extra batteries or a charged device, and spare memory cards. Bring towels, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. Always include an adult who can swim well and, if in open water, a life jacket for less confident swimmers.

What ages is underwater photography suitable for and how much supervision is required?

Underwater photography suits children about 6+ who can follow instructions and be comfortable in water; younger kids (3–5) can join with close adult help in shallow pools. Confident swimmers aged 8–12 can learn technique, while teens can manage advanced settings. Always provide one-to-one supervision, tailor challenges to skill level, and use flotation for beginners or open-water outings.

What safety tips should parents follow when kids take underwater photos?

Prioritize constant adult supervision, ensure the camera or pouch is watertight before entering, and stay in shallow water until the child is confident. Set time and depth limits, avoid deep or rough water, and use life jackets for less experienced swimmers. Teach children not to hold the device if panicking, to surface slowly, and to rinse equipment after saltwater use. Follow pool rules and never leave a child unattended near water.
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Take photographs underwater. Activities for Kids.