Photographing cetaceans in the wild is pure excitement: a blow in the distance, the dorsal fin cutting through the water and… click. At Magic & Sailing, we advocate photography that tells the story without interfering: powerful images, yes, but always with safety and respect for the sea.
Experience it with respect (and come back with dreamy photos)
Good photography at sea is about technique… and attitude. Anticipate, ensure stability, master your settings and remember: the welfare of the animals and safety on board come first. That way, every image will have soul. Also remember that you must follow the crew’s instructions at all times.
Here is a clear guide to help you return home with vivid and honest memories, whether you use a mobile phone or a camera.
See also: Complete guide to dolphin watching in Fuerteventura
Before boarding: basic equipment and configuration
If you have a mobile phone
- Burst mode: increases options for fast movements.
- Focus/exposure lock (AE/AF lock): prevents sudden changes due to water glare.
- Focus/exposure lock (AE/AF lock): prevents sudden changes due to water glare.
- Format: if your mobile phone allows it, activate RAW/HEIF for more editing flexibility.
If you have a camera
- Objective: a 70–200 mm lens is very versatile on a boat; if you are skilled, a 100–400 mm lens gives you extra reach.
- Speed: starts at 1/1000 s (increases if there are waves).
- Aperture: f/5.6–f/8 (sharpness without losing light).
- ISO: Automatic ISO with a reasonable upper limit (depending on the camera) to freeze the action.
- Mode: continuous autofocus (AF-C/AI-Servo) + subject tracking; spot/flexible area.
- Shot: high burst; the jump lasts tenths of a second.
On-board techniques: stability, anticipation and safety
- Body support: feet apart, knees bent, elbows close to your torso; hold the leash.
- Avoid railings and ledges like a “tripod”: they transmit vibrations.
- Anticipate the moment: look at the water, not the screen. The blow reveals breaths; it tends to repeat itself.
- Smart pre-focus: focus on a textured area (water ripples) where you think the animal will emerge.
- Shadows and reflections: look for angles without direct glare; a lens hood helps.
- Polariser: useful for cutting out reflections, but it can reduce light; only use it if the weather permits.
- Follow the crew’s instructions; move calmly on board, camera slung across your body.
Composition and light: tell the story
Level horizon: straight sea, clear photo.
- Leave space in the direction of movement (rule of thirds).
- Include context: a wake, a cape, the coast in the background… set the scene without stealing the limelight.
- Exposure: water is deceiving; use compensation (+/-) if you see very dense shadows or burnt highlights.
- Best times: early and late hours of the day for softer light; if there is haze, look for atmospheric backlighting.
- Color: balance automático suele funcionar; si disparas en RAW, ajustas después.
Ética y normativa: primero el bienestar animal
- No flash, no noise, and no need to get closer.
- No drones unless expressly authorised.
- Responsible observation from a distance, respecting the animals’ schedules and movements.
- The crew applies official protocols; their judgement prevails for safety and respect for wildlife.
Quick editing on your mobile
- Straighten the horizon.
- Crop to improve the framing (4:5 vertical works well on social media; 3:2 for the web).
- Recover highlights and open shadows with moderation.
- A touch of clarity/dehaze (light) to define water and silhouettes.
- Noise reduction if you have shot at high ISOs.
- Export in high resolution.
Summary in the form of an express checklist
- Mobile phone with burst mode and AE/AF lock
- Camera in AF-C mode, high burst, 1/1000 s, f/5.6–f/8, Auto ISO
- Parasol, microfibre cloth, waterproof bag
- Neck/wrist strap
- Light jacket (it gets chilly at sea)
- Absolute respect for wildlife and the team’s instructions
Verified sources supporting the content
- Government of the Canary Islands – Responsible whale watching (regional regulations and best practices).
https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org/ - Promotur Tourism of the Canary Islands (recommendations for conduct during sightings).
https://www.hellocanaryislands.com/ - RedPROMAR – Canary Islands Marine Environment Observer Network (identification resources and validated records).
https://redpromar.com/ - AEMET – State Meteorological Agency (light planning and sea conditions).
https://www.aemet.es/
I joined the company at the end of 2021, focusing mainly on sales and marketing. My passion for the sea led me to obtain my sailor and skipper qualifications, allowing me to experience the ocean up close. One of my most notable qualities is my ability to connect with customers and convey the excitement of each trip. Through videos on social media, I love to showcase the rich marine life of southern Fuerteventura and the spectacular beauty of the Jandía Natural Park.
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