A true slice of paradise, the Maldives beckons photographers of all levels to capture its unrivalled beauty. Whether you are an aspiring shutterbug or a seasoned pro, this destination promises to be your most picturesque muse and here’s a guide to help you prepare!
Locations & Cameras
Choosing the right location is paramount in the Maldives. Romantic resorts that not only offer secluded beaches, luxurious overwater and beach villas and idyllic backdrops but access to local islands as well are ideal; this allows you to capture the best of both worlds – the tranquil seclusion and the vibrant Maldivian culture.
As for cameras, it all depends on how much you want to photograph and how detailed you want your pictures to be. For some, a smartphone camera will suffice, though it helps to also bring a waterproof phone case to get shots in the water. For more professional pictures, consider mirrorless or DSLR cameras, while adventure seekers can make use of a GoPro (ideally with a waterproof casing) for action-packed shots. The use of a drone requires special permission and not all resorts permit them either, so check ahead or consider leaving it behind.
A Private Romantic Photoshoot
If you are looking to add a touch of ‘magic’ to your Maldives photo collection, some resorts such as OBLU SELECT Lobigili offer private romantic photoshoots. Skilled photographers will whisk you away to the most picturesque spots, including those where you can witness spellbinding sunsets, for candid and professional portrait shots.
Such properties even include cinematic drone footage, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your memories. Whether you are celebrating love or simply want to capture your journey, this option brings your Maldivian experience to life in unforgettable pictures that you can treasure and post online to get plenty of ‘likes’ too!
The Best Times for Photos
Every photographer’s heart skips a beat at the mention of the ‘golden hour’, generally one hour after sunrise and the hour just before sunset. In the Maldives, these moments are extra special as the soft light bathes the islands in a mesmerising glow, perfect for profile photos and capturing the essence of this tropical paradise.
While in most destinations, the time between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm is often avoided for photographs because of the sun being too harsh, this is not the case here. In fact, this time offers excellent opportunities to take pictures of the ocean which you can capture in all its vibrancy as the rays of the sun reflect off the seabed.
A Few Tips to Keep in Mind
To capture those truly Insta or portfolio-worthy pictures in Maldives, keep these key tips in mind. Apply the ‘rule of thirds’ to create balanced, visually engaging compositions with the main subject framed to the side rather than at the centre. Avoid shooting against the sun and use a polarising filter to control reflections and protect the lens from sand particles and dust.
To photograph nighttime scenery, a tripod is your best friend since keeping the camera steady is essential. Consider ditching the use of filters and harnessing the natural colours of the islands which are spectacular in their own right. Lastly, always be respectful to fellow travellers and locals and ask their permission if you want to include them in the picture.
