White water rafting the Grand Canyon offers unparalleled possibilities for once-in-a-lifetime photographic experiences. Every moment of a Colorado River raft trip invites a unique shot of everything from rushing rapids to quiet pools to sparkling waterfalls. The range of colors and the vast archaeological record on the walls of the canyon itself are unparalleled compared to any other place on earth, and the sheer size and magnificence of the canyon is something that must be seen and experienced to be understood.
Since the canyon is so enormous, most of it is hidden from view from virtually every single vantage point on or in the canyon. This is equally as true from the river as it is from the rims of the Canyon. There are a plethora of hidden coves, pools and remains of ancient pueblos of indigenous people. Typically, in order to view the wonders of the canyon, even rafters will need to take side hikes from the banks of the river.
Havasu Creek, known for its incredibly blue water, the huge waterfalls at Shinamu and Deer Creek and the renowned Elves Chasm along with its hanging gardens are just some of the exquisite vistas just waiting for a point and shoot. A sharp eye and a quick finger can also record native wildlife in its natural habitat; deer and big-horn sheep are frequently seen, as well as smaller species like coyotes, foxes and ringtail cats, several species of lizards and dozens of colorful birds. And, for those who keep a watchful eye, it might be possible to see one of the very endangered California condors that have been introduced into the Canyon in recent years.
Needless to say, watertight cameras are more suitable for recording while on the water, even if it's just an inexpensive disposable. Lacking this, a regular camera can be kept safe through use of a dry bag, which is basically a waterproof carrying case with a transparent plastic or optical glass area through which the camera can see. When it comes to debate about digital versus film, these days the former is preferred by most rafting photographers, for a number of reasons. First of all, there is no limit to the volume of shots one can store electronically (depending on the size of your memory card). In addition, during the time it takes to replace a roll of film, one can miss an amazing number of exciting shots, especially when rafting through rapids. And of course, most digital cameras these days can also capture video clips, so one can photograph the scenery while moving at breakneck speed down the raging rapids.
According to most professional photographers, digital cameras are superior for capturing night skies and dimly lit vistas than traditional cameras. Dont forget to look up at night, as there are no city lights to block out those amazing starlit skies that can be viewed from the floor of the canyon. And, by all means you should definitely look around at the vast landscapes before you as you careen down river, or settle into your campsite every evening. Tripods are very useful, particularly for long exposure photos - however, it is important to work with your guide about whether or not storage space is available. Of course, without available electricity, extra batteries are strongly recommended.
Most outfitters that guide Colorado River raft trips offer excursions of varying distances especially intended for photography addicts, and are founts of knowledge on the best areas and most efficient gear, for both amateurs and professionals. These guides are authorities on the background and geography of the canyon as well, so can answer questions about what youre observing, and can lead you to some of the most exotic places within hiking distance of the river. The Grand Canyon is one of the most diverse and ever-changing sources of magnificent vistas and scenery on this planet. Even if all you carry is a point and shoot camera, whatever you aim your camera at will certainly record a memory of an unforgettable trip down river.
Reproduction permitted only if all active links are maintained and byline is preserved, and/or your byline is omitted. 2011 All Rights Reserved.
Since the canyon is so enormous, most of it is hidden from view from virtually every single vantage point on or in the canyon. This is equally as true from the river as it is from the rims of the Canyon. There are a plethora of hidden coves, pools and remains of ancient pueblos of indigenous people. Typically, in order to view the wonders of the canyon, even rafters will need to take side hikes from the banks of the river.
Havasu Creek, known for its incredibly blue water, the huge waterfalls at Shinamu and Deer Creek and the renowned Elves Chasm along with its hanging gardens are just some of the exquisite vistas just waiting for a point and shoot. A sharp eye and a quick finger can also record native wildlife in its natural habitat; deer and big-horn sheep are frequently seen, as well as smaller species like coyotes, foxes and ringtail cats, several species of lizards and dozens of colorful birds. And, for those who keep a watchful eye, it might be possible to see one of the very endangered California condors that have been introduced into the Canyon in recent years.
Needless to say, watertight cameras are more suitable for recording while on the water, even if it's just an inexpensive disposable. Lacking this, a regular camera can be kept safe through use of a dry bag, which is basically a waterproof carrying case with a transparent plastic or optical glass area through which the camera can see. When it comes to debate about digital versus film, these days the former is preferred by most rafting photographers, for a number of reasons. First of all, there is no limit to the volume of shots one can store electronically (depending on the size of your memory card). In addition, during the time it takes to replace a roll of film, one can miss an amazing number of exciting shots, especially when rafting through rapids. And of course, most digital cameras these days can also capture video clips, so one can photograph the scenery while moving at breakneck speed down the raging rapids.
According to most professional photographers, digital cameras are superior for capturing night skies and dimly lit vistas than traditional cameras. Dont forget to look up at night, as there are no city lights to block out those amazing starlit skies that can be viewed from the floor of the canyon. And, by all means you should definitely look around at the vast landscapes before you as you careen down river, or settle into your campsite every evening. Tripods are very useful, particularly for long exposure photos - however, it is important to work with your guide about whether or not storage space is available. Of course, without available electricity, extra batteries are strongly recommended.
Most outfitters that guide Colorado River raft trips offer excursions of varying distances especially intended for photography addicts, and are founts of knowledge on the best areas and most efficient gear, for both amateurs and professionals. These guides are authorities on the background and geography of the canyon as well, so can answer questions about what youre observing, and can lead you to some of the most exotic places within hiking distance of the river. The Grand Canyon is one of the most diverse and ever-changing sources of magnificent vistas and scenery on this planet. Even if all you carry is a point and shoot camera, whatever you aim your camera at will certainly record a memory of an unforgettable trip down river.
Reproduction permitted only if all active links are maintained and byline is preserved, and/or your byline is omitted. 2011 All Rights Reserved.
About the Author:
If you are into photo ops in the Grand Canyon during a river rafting trip, author Stephen Daniels highly recommends you look to Grand Canyon river rafting trips guided by knowledgeable and experienced guides at Hatch River Expeditions. Theyll make sure to take you on extraordinary side trips, and will be sure to point out when great photo ops lie straight ahead as you ride the rapids and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.
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