Photography & Video Advice

WHAT CAMERA SHOULD I BRING?
Our first piece of advice is that you bring the camera you know the best. This could be anything from a smartphone camera to a DSLR, a point-and-shoot to a GoPro. The most important thing is that you’re familiar with the camera you bring. You’ll want to enjoy every moment in Antarctica, and the last thing you need is to be trying to figure out your settings during an exciting wildlife spotting. Even if you’re comfortable with your camera, remember to pack your manual, as it’s a great resource in case of a roadblock. Refrain from thinking that you need the most advanced camera to get shots; compact cameras or smartphones are great for experimenting with angles and getting more creative with your photography!

WHAT LENSES SHOULD I BRING?
The lenses you need depend entirely on your camera. If you’re shooting with a smartphone, you can pick up a few lens adapters that can give you a range of angles and zoom capabilities. Many point-and-shoots have a wide optical range and digital zoom functions and don’t require any additional lenses. If you are bringing a DSLR, having a few lenses will help to get a wider variety of shots. We suggest that you think about the two major types of photographs you will be taking: landscape and wildlife. A wide-angle lens like a 16-35mm can capture vast landscapes, but a 24-70mm lens has greater versatility. Mid-range telephoto lenses, for example a 70-200mm, are perfect for photographing a range of wildlife.

HOW CAN I PROTECT MY GEAR?
During our trip we’ll be exposed to various weather conditions, including ocean spray, swells and harsh wind. Protecting your gear during these vulnerable times is critical. It’s important to have a sturdy waterproof camera bag that you can store your gear in while riding in the Zodiacs® or in case the weather turns and you need to store it away. Many camera bags have padding, which will help insulate your gear from the cold (although the summer in Antarctica usually maintains a comfortable one to two degrees Celsius, so extreme cold isn’t an issue).

HOW CAN I KEEP MY CAMERA DRY?
There are many different types of rain covers to fit various camera dimensions; these are lightweight waterproof cases that will protect your camera while shooting. Make sure you keep your lens clean by using a lens hood. Lens cloths are also crucial for keeping the glass clean, and you should keep a few in your kit as they can get damp quickly. We also recommend a compact quick-dry towel for wiping down your camera body if it gets exposed to moisture.

WHAT ACCESSORIES SHOULD I BRING?
The most important accessory is a camera battery and charger. The cold will make battery life shorter, and you’ll need to charge it regularly. Depending on how much you intend to shoot, having an extra battery is recommended. You may also want a tripod, though these can be cumbersome while walking on foot.

Having a secure way to save your images will give you piece of mind. A card reader or direct connector, like a USB cable, can transfer your images from your camera to your laptop or hard drive. Make sure you have everything before you embark, as you won’t visit many camera shops in South America. There are no camera shops in Antarctica or on the ship.

WHAT OTHER CLOTHING IS IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER?
Seabourn provides a complimentary two-layer expedition parka, which you’ll receive on board. We recommend a loose-fitting jacket, so you may keep your camera around your neck and slip it inside your parka when not taking photographs. Please keep in mind that you’ll need to press buttons or move dials on your camera, so having thin gloves or glove liners is essential to keep your hands warm while maintaining dexterity.

HOW CAN I MAINTAIN THE QUALITY OF MY CAMERA?
When we go ashore, pack your camera in a waterproof camera bag to keep it safe from the elements. If you have multiple lenses, take caution when changing them. Ideally, you want to do this indoors, like in your suite. If you decide to change lenses while outside, make sure your back is to the wind or recruit a friend to make a wind barricade. It’s also a good idea to have your camera serviced before you set off on your adventure.

WHAT FILTERS SHOULD I BRING?
There are a variety of filters available; we recommend doing research and visiting your local camera shop to find out which ones, if any, suit your photographic needs. UV filters double as lens protectors and eliminate the blue cast from images taken in bright conditions. That said, UV filters lessen the quality of images and can add distortions to your photos. To decrease the light and increase the saturation of an image, a polarizing filter can be useful. Increasing the saturation can help bring out blue tones in the icebergs and definition in the clouds. There are several varieties of neutral density (ND) filters that reduce light without changing the color of the image. Whichever filter you choose, make sure it fits your lens and that the thread is undamaged.

HOW MUCH GEAR SHOULD I PLAN ON BRINGING?
While in Antarctica, we’ll be spending time on land and on Zodiac® boats. When we make a landing, we’ll be walking around to visit penguin colonies or other wildlife in their natural surroundings. You don’t want to be weighed down with too much equipment as this can be cumbersome on the Zodiacs® or prevent you from seeing everything at each landing site. It’s best to think about which types of images you will be capturing that day and where you are going to be, and then pack accordingly.

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO RECORD VIDEOS?
When shooting video, a tripod or beanbag will keep your footage from becoming shaky. Also, your camera bag can double as a support, getting you down to the animal’s eye level. Before you start filming, it’s wise to frame your shot and set up your camera before you press record. If you’re also capturing audio, like penguin calls or whale blows, make sure your camera is out of the wind and consider investing in a microphone.

ARE THERE RULES SPECIFIC TO PHOTOGRAPHING WILDLIFE?
We are guests of Antarctica and should remember to respect the land and wildlife that host us. The Expedition Team will give advice and be on hand to recommend best practices for wildlife encounters. We find that patience goes a long way; finding a spot where you can stop and blend in to the scenery allows the wildlife to forget you’re there and go about their daily routine. As a general rule of guidance, in Antarctica you are required to remain 5m or more away from wildlife.

HOW WILL I KNOW THE BEST PLACES ABOARD TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS?
Once settled into your suite, explore the incredible rooms and viewing platforms the ship has to offer. Beautiful exterior and interior designs make the ship an interesting subject for framing striking images. Experiment with landscape reflections in windows, looking out onto icebergs through portholes and giving a sense of scale by photographing the ship at anchor surrounded by calving glaciers.

ARE THERE CERTAIN ROUTINES I SHOULD BE FAMILIAR WITH?
We recommend having a daily routine to stay on top of maintaining your camera and accessories while in Antarctica. Every evening, transfer the day’s images to your hard drive or computer to ensure they’re safely stored, and wipe your memory card for the next day. Also, charge your battery at night to prevent losing power while off ship. Lastly, clean any dirt or residue off not just your camera but also your bag, tripod and any other accessories that have been exposed.

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?
Antarctica is the most photogenic place on earth, where you’ll be able to photograph landscapes and animals beyond your wildest dreams. Remember, this is your vacation, and it should also be a joyous time spent with friends and family. Let photography be a complement to the more important things, like taking it all in and enjoying this extraordinary opportunity with your loved ones and fellow guests.