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.

Choosing the best lens for water photography depends less on gear and more on where you’re shooting from. This guide walks through the focal lengths I use for shoreline, surf, and in-water photography so you can build a simple setup that works across the ocean.