How to Care for Your Camera on a Boat Trip

A boat trip might be just what you need to unwind, and you'll want to preserve the memories for years to come. The best way to do this, of course, is with your camera, but you'll need to care for the camera while you're near the water. Since most people don't have the inclination to purchase water-proof cameras unless they are professional photographers, your camera is probably susceptible not only to the water under the boat, but also to the high levels of humidity.

Bring Plastic Bags
One of the best ways to care for your camera on a boat trip is to bring several seal-able plastic bags. When your camera isn't in use, store it in one or two of the plastic bags and then tuck it away in your camera case. This will keep the moisture in the air from seeping into your camera and potentially damaging it. You might also want to include several packets of silica gel to further ward off the humidity.

Be Careful at the Rail
You might be tempted to lean over the boat railing to snap a picture of sea life or a particularly beautiful background. This is fine as long as you are careful about your balance when it comes to hanging onto that camera! When taking pictures on a boat trip, have someone put their hands on your waist or arms to hold you steady while you capture the perfect angle. If this isn't possible, use one hand to hold the railing and the other to hold the camera. This might not produce a professional shot, but at least your camera won't be in the water.

Dry the Camera
If your camera becomes wet or slick from a spray of water or from the humidity, dry it immediately with a towel or a piece of clothing. Not only don't you want water seeping into the camera, but you also don't want the equipment to be slick in your hands. Should you lose your balance, a wet or slick camera will shoot right out of your hands -- and perhaps into the water.

Watch the Weather
In the weeks leading up to your boat trip, keep an eye on the weather to make sure this is the optimum time. If storms are forecast, you probably won't have much fun on the boat trip and you won't be able to take many pictures without risking your camera.

Keep Camera & Film Separate
When storing your camera, make sure that it is kept in a separate location from your already-used film. Just in case your camera is stolen, you don't want the thief making off with your memories. Further, you should pack your camera in such a way that passerby can't immediately tell what it is. This will discourage thieves from going through your bags when you happen to step away.