Inflatable Kayak Blog

The beautiful autumn scenery somehow looks even more vivid when viewed from my inflatable kayak. I love paddling in the fall because of the cooler weather and, most of all, the incredible mix of color that fills the landscape. Of course, the great color fits in perfectly with my other hobby, photography. I always have my camera with me in the kayak. You never know when a terrific ‘photo op’ will occur.

Here are a few tips that might help you capture some great images this Fall.

1. Have your camera ready to go. Review the different ‘modes’ or settings. Even some of the simpler digital cameras have selections for landscapes or close-ups. You want to know how to choose the right setting without fumbling around while you miss a great ‘shot”.

2. Hold the camera with two hands as steady as possible. I also find that using the viewfinder instead of the LCD screen will help you take clearer pictures.

3. Keep your camera dry. Carry a hand towel to wipe your hands before handling the camera. You can either keep your camera on the strap around your neck or in a waterproof camera bag. A friend uses a soft sided 6 pack cooler, which also works pretty well. When your not taking pictures, be sure the lens cap is in place.

4. Check out the sun. Avoid taking pictures with the sun shining directly into the lens creating that irritating flare in a photo. Also, be aware of how the direction of the sun lights your subject area. A great shot sometimes is the result of knowing how to put your subject in the correct “light”.

5. It’s digital! Take lots of shots and delete the bad ones later. Most of us are using digital cameras now, so taking lots of pictures doesn’t cost any more than taking one of each of your subjects. Try some different angles and (if you have a zoom lens) various zoom settings. I can’t understand why some people just take one shot and then get disappointed when it turns out blurry. Taking more pictures increases your chances of capturing something amazing to show your friends.

6. Have fun! And, did I mention … “Take lots of shots!”