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How to Photograph Manta Rays: Our Top 5 Tips

Manta and Remoras: Image by Tiani Dun

Planning a shoot (in our humble opinion) is always half the fun! When shooting big animals like Manta Rays, here are a few of our top tips to help you capture stunning images:


1. Get your gear setup right:

Bring your wide-angle setup and set your camera to a fast shutter speed. Try using burst mode not to miss the perfect shot!


Behind the Scenes: Image by Francesca Deweerdt

2. Plan Your Dive:

Research the best locations and times for manta sightings. Usually, early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting and an increased chance of encountering these gentle giants. Depending on the location, high or low tide might provide increased visibility. Ask your local dive shop for more information!


Manta Magic: Image by Ran Mor

3. Be Patient and Respectful:

Manta rays are known for their slow and graceful movements. Take your time and observe their behavior. Avoid chasing them; instead, move slowly, stay calm and let them come to you. This will result in more natural and captivating images.


Manta Ray: Image by Tiani Dun

4. Use Natural Light:

When possible, take advantage of natural light to illuminate your subjects. Avoid using flash, as it can startle the rays and scare them away.


Manta in the Light: Image by Tiani Dun

5. Get Close and Fill the Frame:

To create impactful images, get as close as you can while maintaining a safe distance. Filling the frame with the manta ray will emphasize its size and beauty, making your photos more striking. Stay low and shoot upwards to capture the best angles.


Manta Dance: Image by Ran Mor

We hope you find these tips helpful for your manta photography adventures! If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out.


Also, be sure to join our Learn Underwater Photography FB Community for more tips and tricks from our experienced team of photographers!


Happy shooting!



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