why this photo
I'm always thinking of ways to take different photos. Whether it's sports or general news, I'm looking for things like new angles and exposure. Since the sport involves multiple players, it is necessary to take as many photos as possible in one location, which can result in many similar photos. There had already been a few days of swimming at the World Aquatics Championships when I decided to change things up to see what I could get. In qualifying, I was planning to hit shots outside of the center marquee lanes 3, 4, and 5, which I usually focus on. After adjusting the underwater camera's position and taking several test shots, I was able to predict that certain positions would give me the variety and new images I wanted.
How to make a photo
During the morning heats for a spot in the finals, I took the initiative to test other camera placements. I had my diver move the underwater camera to a different lane in advance and use the appropriate shutter speed and custom white balance settings (one of three presets I created on the camera) during the men's 200m breaststroke. I took this photo. camera. We set the white balance to change depending on the distance to the underwater subject and the lighting, applying the appropriate settings for each moment of the swimmer's movement. As a result, the balance and optimal combination of colors in White under water and out of water emphasized the movement of the swimmer in the photo. Exposure and color balance change when you move away from the camera, so I tried to keep the distance between the swimmer and the camera as close as possible.
Why photos work
Underwater photography requires more than just camera adjustments; it's also a combination of various technologies. Associated Press photographer David J. Phillip helped set up underwater cameras. He troubleshooted through Zoom meetings and real-time conversations, and over the course of three weeks was able to create the photos he wanted. Additionally, with the cooperation of underwater divers, we were able to install cameras in the desired lanes. I also asked my fellow local photographers to help me out. Underwater camera housings move faster with increasingly advanced technology, but taking photos manually is still different. I planned ahead and used the zoom of the lens and movement of the housing to preset the camera angle to where I wanted it. The white balance, which changes depending on the distance and brightness underwater, has been set to the appropriate setting at each time. As a result, we were able to express the swimmer's movements to the fullest.
___ For more AP photos, click here.
Lee Jin-man, Associated Press
