Just the Tip of the Iceberg
Blacktip sharks are a common sight in Tuamoto lagoons — and in open water.

READ MORE ABOUT DIVING IN TAHITI

1. Scope out the sites and talk with divemasters about the best vantage points. For instance, at Tamakohua, there’s an overhung cavern at 70 feet where bubbles are diffused by the ceiling.

2. Go for a lens that gives you more reach, like a 10-24mm zoom or 17-70mm zoom for APS-C crop sensor shooters, or a 16- 35 for full frame.

3. Sharks are naturally dark on top and light on the bottom — with two strobes, raise them up a bit higher than normal and feather slightly outward.

4. Distances can be deceiving in clear water. Perform test shots to narrow your settings before you get to the action.

5. Current is an issue; stay heavier on the weight, and keep track of your strobe, which can be pushed sideways.

Underwater photographer Tanya G. Burnett shares her tips for getting the best shots when it comes to sharks. Check out some of her work from our article on traveling to Tahiti.

Camera Rig

Burnett used a Nikon D7200 24MP DSLR and Nikon 10-24mm and Sigma 17-70mm lenses, Nauticam NA-D7200 housing with a Zen Underwater 200mm optical glass dome port, and two Inon Z-240 strobes.