The Best Reef Photography Tips for Capturing the Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef is one of those bucket-list experiences that really lives up to the hype. It's vibrant, it’s otherworldly, and it’s right on our doorstep here in Port Douglas. And if you’re anything like me (and if you're reading this, I reckon you are), you want to capture it all—not just in your memory, but in your camera too.

As someone who worked as an underwater photographer for 10 years—four of those spent photographing snorkelers and divers on the reef from Port Douglas—I’ve picked up more than a few tips and tricks. So whether you’ve got a GoPro, a phone in a waterproof case, or you’re renting a fancy underwater setup for the day, I’m here to help you make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Let’s dive in (pun absolutely intended!).

📸 What Gear Should You Use?

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on pro gear to get beautiful photos of the reef. What matters most is knowing how to use what you’ve got.

Your Three Main Options:

• Phone in a waterproof pouch: Yes, even those zip-lock style cases can do a great job for snorkelling! They’re affordable, easy to use, and surprisingly effective in shallow water. Just make sure the case is well-sealed and rated for underwater use. A simple trick is to test it with a tissue inside before your trip—no leaks = good to go!

• GoPro: Compact, easy to use, and perfect for video and wide-angle reef shots. Bonus points if you bring a red filter (more on that soon).

• Rental or hire cameras: Some reef tour companies from Port Douglas offer underwater camera rentals (like on Quicksilver, Poseidon, and Silversonic). These are usually point-and-shoot style but come in quality housings and take surprisingly decent images.

  
  

Tip: Whatever you’re using, test it in your hotel pool first! That way, you can make sure you’re comfortable with the settings and that there are no leaks before you're out in the middle of the ocean.

☀️ Light Changes Underwater—Here’s What You Need to Know

Water does weird things to light. The deeper you go, the less light there is—and not just any light, but colourful light.

• Red disappears first, followed by orange and yellow. That’s why reef photos often look blue or green unless you use a red filter or correct the colour in editing.

• Keep it shallow: The best light for reef photography is within the top few metres. Luckily, that’s exactly where you’ll be when snorkelling!

Tip: Shoot when the sun is overhead—between 10am and 2pm is ideal. Cloudy days can still work, but bright sunlight brings out those jaw-dropping reef colours.

🎨 Colour Correction: Before & After the Shot

• Use a red filter on your GoPro or camera if available—it helps bring back natural tones.

• Shoot in RAW if your camera allows it. This gives you more flexibility when editing later.

• Edit with care: Apps like Lightroom or Snapseed can help you bring the colours back without overdoing it.

Don't worry if editing isn’t your thing. In my private lessons, I can show you a few quick tweaks that’ll make a massive difference to your reef shots—no fancy software required.

🤿 Get Below Your Subject and Shoot Up

This one’s a game-changer. Most people float on the surface, looking down at fish and coral. But if you want more dynamic, professional-looking shots:

• Try diving down a metre or two (just a quick duck dive if you’re comfortable)

• Angle your camera upwards, with the sunlight or water surface in the background

• This adds depth, drama, and makes your subject pop

Note: Be mindful of your snorkel and buoyancy—no photo is worth a mouthful of saltwater.

🐠 Get Close—But Don’t Touch

The water between you and your subject acts like a filter, softening colours and details. So the closer you are, the sharper and more vibrant your photo will be.

• Get as close as possible without disturbing the wildlife

• Use slow, gentle movements—sudden splashes scare the fish away

And please—never touch the reef or its creatures. Not only can it harm them, but many marine animals are fragile or even dangerous. Look, don’t poke!

🐟 Capturing Fish and Other Marine Life

Fish are fast. And a little camera shy. But with some patience and these tricks, you’ll improve your chances:

• Stay still: Let them come to you (especially if you hover near a coral head or bommie).

• Anticipate: Watch for patterns in their swimming so you can time your shot.

• Use burst mode: Take a bunch of photos quickly—at least one is bound to be a winner!

🌊 Split Shots (Over/Under)

Want one of those epic photos that’s half reef, half sky? These are called split shots or “over/unders”—and yes, you can totally do them while snorkelling.

Here’s how:

• Use a camera with a dome port if possible (some GoPro accessories offer this)

• Keep the lens half above, half below the water

• Calm water days work best

• Clean the dome between shots to avoid water spots

It takes a little practice, but it’s so worth it when you nail the shot.

💡 Quick Tips Recap

Here’s a handy list to keep in mind:

• ✅ Test your gear in a pool first

• ✅ Use a red filter if possible

• ✅ Shoot between 10am and 2pm

• ✅ Get close to your subject (but never touch!)

• ✅ Use burst mode for fish

• ✅ Try split shots for something different

• ✅ Edit your photos for colour correction

• ✅ Practice breathing calmly to stay steady

👋 Want to Practice Before You Go?

If you’re feeling a little unsure about your camera (or just want to feel more confident in the water), I offer private lessons right here in Port Douglas. We can even do a little practice session in your hotel pool so you feel completely ready before your reef trip.

We’ll go over your gear, get you confident with composition, and even chat editing if you’re keen. Think of it as reef photo bootcamp—but without the yelling or push-ups.

🌟 Make the Most of This Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience on The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most magical places on Earth, and whether this is your only visit or the first of many, you deserve to capture it beautifully.

With just a few simple tips (and maybe a little help from someone who’s spent a decade underwater with a camera 😄), you can come home with images that tell the story of your incredible adventure.

And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to check out The Ultimate Guide to Port Douglas Photography Tours for more inspiration, tips, and photography ideas while you’re here.

Happy snorkelling—and happy snapping!The Best Reef Photography Tips for Capturing the Great Barrier Reef