Suggestions on ocean filming

[Juanfordroad]

Been so long since I've posted I'm not sure if this is even the right forum but here goes...

Living on St. Croix in the beautiful Caribbean I have an opportunity to get some great shots of this spectacular water, thanks to a good friend with a boat. Not wanting to impose too much I would like suggestions on filters needed (we get dust from the Sahara), Best to shoot at SD, 30p, 24p, etc. etc. Shooting with a 100B and won't go out unless the water is like glass since I don't have a raincoat for the camera. I did buy one but it's a POS and very hard to use. The boat is probably a 30 footer. Would appreciate any and all suggestions.

Thanks.

Juanfordroad

 

[Nuno Dias]

The only filter you'll need will be a Polariser (and maybe some NDs). The best polariser you can get your hands on, that usually means an expensive one. This filter will polarise away all the strong reflections from the sun on the water, making it possible to see the water without it being 'flat' lighted and burnt by the sun rays. Usually a Polariser will rotate to the most desirable polarizing effect, from minimum to maximum, see through the viewfinder and judge accordingly to taste.

Remember that a polarizing filter will only do its job if the sun is within the front radius of the camera but never in front of the lens, the best results are usually at either nine o'clock or three. The photo you show is without a doubt taken with a polarizing filter, otherwise you wouldn't be getting that lush turquoise color.

the other thing to have in mind is the sun. It has to be sunny and best to be slightly lower on the horizon, not full noon, but a little later. Look at the sea and it will look better if you point the camera at an angle to the sun, not directly, or with the sun behind you (as in the picture you showed), but best to judge on the day.

Hope this helps.