Capturing the Moment: Enhancing Your SUP Adventures Through Photography

From the crystal-clear waters of the Whitsundays to the serene lakes of Victoria or the dramatic coastline of Western Australia, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) gives Aussies a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking natural backdrops in the world. So why not capture those magic moments while you’re out there?

Whether you’re paddling solo at sunrise or touring with mates, bringing a camera (or just your smartphone) can transform your SUP session into a visual story. In this post, we’re sharing practical and creative paddle board photography tips to help you take stunning shots on the water — without sacrificing your safety or balance.

Why SUP Photography is Worth the Effort

SUP offers a unique perspective — you’re standing above the water, constantly surrounded by reflections, wildlife, open skies, and changing light. It’s dynamic and peaceful all at once, and capturing those moments can be as rewarding as the paddle itself.

Plus, with the rise of waterproof cameras, floating phone cases, and lightweight drones, it’s never been easier to snap high-quality shots while on your board.

Top Paddle Board Photography Tips for Australian Waters

1. Plan Around Light & Location

Golden hour — shortly after sunrise or before sunset — offers the softest, most flattering light for SUP photography. Not only is the lighting ideal, but the water tends to be calmer and less crowded at these times.

Best Aussie spots for SUP photography:

• Lake Macquarie, NSW
  
• Noosa River, QLD
  
• Rottnest Island, WA
  
• Jervis Bay, NSW (especially for spotting dolphins)
  

2. Use a Waterproof Phone Case with Lanyard

For most paddlers, your phone is your primary camera. Invest in a waterproof case with a neck strap or wrist lanyard. Not only does it keep your phone safe, but it frees up your hands for paddling or posing.

Bonus tip: Get a floating case — if you drop your phone, it won’t sink to the bottom.

3. Stabilise Your Shots

Balance can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to frame a shot. For clearer photos:

• Sit or kneel on your board before shooting.
• Use burst mode to catch the right moment, especially with moving subjects.
• Use your paddle as a stabiliser — rest it across the board while shooting one-handed.

4. Capture More Than Just Scenery

People love seeing the human side of adventure. Mix in action shots, selfies, and behind-the-scenes moments:

• Snap your paddle slicing through glassy water.
• Capture the moment you spot a turtle, dolphin, or stingray.
• Get creative with reflections — your silhouette, the clouds, the horizon.

5. Experiment With Angles

Some of the best paddle board photography tips come down to perspective:

• Overhead: Mount a GoPro or small action cam on a pole or drone.
• Waterline shots: Hold your phone just above the water surface for dramatic angles.
• Paddle view: Rest your camera on your paddle for an interesting foreground frame.

6. Bring a Dry Bag for Your Gear

Even if your camera is waterproof, you’ll want a safe place to store extra gear like lenses, filters, spare batteries, or even a micro towel for wiping off salt spray. Choose a small dry bag that clips onto your deck bungee.

7. Stay Safe While Shooting

No shot is worth a lost paddle or a tumble into the drink. Always:

• Wear a leash.
• Use a stable board if you plan to shoot while standing.
• Be mindful of wind, currents, and boat traffic when focusing on your camera.

Editing Tips for Maximum Impact

Once you’re back on dry land, don’t be afraid to enhance your photos:

• Use editing apps like Lightroom Mobile, Snapseed, or VSCO.
• Boost contrast and saturation slightly to bring out the blues and greens.
• Straighten horizons and crop with care — clean lines go a long way.

Photography adds a whole new dimension to your SUP experience. Whether you’re documenting a solo mission down the Swan River or snapping your mates during a beach paddle in Byron Bay, these paddle board photography tips can help you preserve the adventure and share it with the world.

So next time you hit the water, bring your board, your camera, and a creative eye — because the best memories are the ones you capture and relive again and again.