Taking your camera into the ocean for the first time can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the setup process I use before in-water surf photography sessions, from preparing my waterproof housing to choosing camera settings I can trust once I’m swimming.

Want to start surf photography without breaking your camera on day one? These 10 beginner tips cover everything from choosing the right housing to mastering shutter speed, so you can safely capture the ocean’s beauty from the very start.