Tabarca Island is one of the most attractive spots in the Mediterranean for those who enjoy the sea and photography. Its status as a Marine Reserve, its clear waters, and the great biodiversity it harbors make it an ideal setting to take out your camera and explore the underwater world from a different angle.
The equipment you need
To get started, you don’t need professional equipment: a compact waterproof camera or even a GoPro can achieve spectacular results. Those looking for more control can opt for a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a waterproof housing. It’s recommended to bring:
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Color filters (red or orange) to balance the tones that are lost underwater.
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Underwater lights or flashes, which add contrast when clarity is lacking.
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Basic accessories such as a safety leash, a signal buoy, and a small ballast to improve buoyancy.
Where to find the best shots
The island offers very different spots. In Cala del Francés, you’ll find calm waters and seabeds covered with posidonia, while Playa de la Caleta is teeming with small fish that can be photographed just a few meters deep. The surrounding area of the port hides rocky seabeds with interesting light effects, and in the authorized areas of the reserve, it’s easy to come across groupers, sea breams, and sea breams.
Practical tips
In underwater photography, the golden rule is to get close to your subject: water acts as a filter, reducing sharpness and color as the distance increases. Ideally, take advantage of the central hours of the day, when the sun sets vertically and the water is brightest. If your camera allows it, set the white balance to manual to maintain realistic tones, and try macro mode to capture details like starfish or nudibranchs.
Scenes you can’t miss
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Schools of salps moving in groups.
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Green posidonia backgrounds contrasting with the white sand.
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Silhouettes of swimmers or boats cut out against the sunlight.
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Bubble games that add dynamism to the composition.
Respect for the environment
We mustn’t forget that Tabarca is a protected area. This means not touching or removing animals or plants, avoiding resting your fins on the posidonia, and, if you use sunscreen, choosing biodegradable formulas. Photography is a means to enjoy and share the beauty of the sea, never to alter it.
final inspiration
Beyond technique, the key is creativity. Look for backlighting, surface reflections, textures, and colors. Even with a simple snorkel, you can capture images that capture the magic of Tabarca and its underwater life.
