Close Focus Wide Angle

Alex Mustard · Issue 51, Nov/Dec 2009 · pp. 31–35

Products mentioned: Canon 15mm fisheye, Nikon 10.5mm fisheye, Nikon 16mm fisheye, Tokina 10-17mm, Sigma 15mm fisheye, Subal housing, Inon Z240 strobes, Subtronic strobes

Close Focus Wide Angle (CFWA) is one of the core techniques in underwater photography and despite being simply a subdivision of wide angle, for photos taken at distances closer than 60cm (2 feet), it requires quite specific techniques. This close working distance creates unique challenges in lighting and framing photographs, but by forcing perspective it creates images that grab attention. CFWA can be challenging initially, but once mastered it is actually one of the easiest techniques in underwater photography. The aim of this article is to set you on the track to success. We all know the mantra “Get close. Get CLOSER!” is fundamental underwater photography advice. It helps us produce pictures that have more colour, contrast and detail in the murky underwater world. But when we get close with a wide angle lens we reap another benefit. Short camera to subject distances force the perspect…