FUJIFILM X-Pro2 (16mm, f/1.4, 1/80 sec, ISO3200)

The real reason to visit Monterey is to visit the aquarium. And the reason to visit the aquarium is the big tank.

I have been there before twice but every time I come close to Monterey I have to come here. Of course the place is very busy. Far too busy for my taste but the reason is because the place is just amazing.

The big open sea tank offers the best photo opportunity because you can sow how the visitors interact with the sharks, the tuna and the turtles. But it is important to step back a little in order to get the real shot. Most of the time you need to get as close as possible for a good picture but here it is the other way around.

FUJIFILM X-Pro2 (16mm, f/1.4, 1/100 sec, ISO4000)
FUJIFILM X-Pro2 (16mm, f/1.4, 1/80 sec, ISO2500)
FUJIFILM X-Pro2 (16mm, f/1.4, 1/80 sec, ISO2500)

For me the hammerhead shark is the most attractive and that’s why focused on him and pushed the knob every time he was in an attractive position. Of course I also tried to make sure that the people in front of the tank are nicely arranged. That’s a though thing because you can’t stage those shots. People are moving around all the time. Sometimes it was to busy or people were running into the frame. In short you need some patience to get good shots here.

And of course a real camera. I can’t imagine how smartphones and iPads will handle those difficult conditions. It’s dark and there is a lot of contrast because of the light beams that enter the tank from the top. Just like sun rays in the sea. Beautiful, magical but tricky.

What a wonderful place!

FUJIFILM X-Pro2 (16mm, f/1.4, 1/80 sec, ISO3200)