Imagine yourself on a boat on Dive Maui as the wind tousles your hair and a massive humpback whale performs an acrobatic show beneath the water’s surface. Is your camera prepared to record that enchantment, though?

First things first: the tools. You won’t require a lens as powerful as your morning joe, but a 200mm or longer zoom lens will allow you to get up close and personal with those gigantic marine creatures. You won’t need a tripod unless you want to play stability queen with the waves. Opt for a faster shutter speed instead. Midair splashes are frozen at speeds of at least 1/1000 seconds. Make aperture a top priority. For crisp, clear photos, choose f/8 or f/11 as your aperture setting.

But timing is a whole different beast. Lighter skies and calmer seas are common in the mornings. During the months of October through April, Maui is blessed with humpback whales, who are eager to be observed up close. But patience is often your best ally. Stay alert and prepared for the camera. Whales are masters of the unexpected!

After the shutter button is pressed, composition steps in to act as a judge. Keep the rule of thirds in mind. Put the whale or horizon where the lines or intersections of a tic-tac-toe board are in your lens. A breathtaking backdrop is provided by the ocean’s tint, which is infinite and blue. A sunset breach, when the sky is a kaleidoscope of color, can transform your photos into works of art.

Whales actually leave behind what are called “footprints”! How interesting! As they descend, they leave behind flat, placid areas of water. They can be used as clues as to where they could reappear.

Experimentation is the last piece of wisdom. Adjust the settings and test out various perspectives. With each humpback breach or tail slap, there is an opportunity to create one-of-a-kind underwater artwork. Concern not if the whales exhibit timid behavior. The trip itself can provide stunning scenery on occasion, what with all the ocean views.

Get ready to sail with these advice, embrace the unknown, and make the most of that perfect moment when it comes!