How do you get a picture?

[Tarpon4me]

Out in the big blue, there are plenty of great photo opportunities for all anglers. The problem with that is many anglers don't know how to safely get a snap shot with thier catch, especially something of a larger size like a shark. When I say get a photo, I mean in order to release the fish, so gaffing is out of the question. So many great picture opportunities swim away with a cut leader because the angler doesn't know how to work out a picture. I am one of those anglers that has a hard time getting photo's with larger fish with out harming them in some way. Most of the time i'll just cut them loose and be done with it.

I wanted to know if there are any stratgies or special equipment and tactics out there that can help our anglers along for the up and comming season; to get some quality photos with thier catch while keeping conservation and preservation in mind. [cool]
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[CaptJoeVerdino]

A waterproof housing works well, a bit pricey but very efeective. You can stick the camera out over the side have the subject sit on the gunnel ans shoot the pic of fish in water with angler sitting on the side. With the housing you don't have to worry about splashes and/ or dropping the camera. The housing is filled with air and it floats. Also it makes for great underwater shots if you want to get creative.
Some pics from inside a housing:



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[Tarpon4me]

LOL, I thought Steve had big fish fever when he said he wanted to catch a great white. I'd say you've got him beat. SO, how long have you been targeting Whale Sharks. [sly]

On a serious note, I was actually looking for tips on safe handling and ideas on how to get a larger fish out of the water momentarily for a quick picture before being released. That is a great idea though. Thanks for sharing Joe! [cool]
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[tomc]

try a boga grip,they make 28" ones.or go with someone that can run the camera.LOL.that why i dont have too many with me in them,the guys i go with have a hard time unlocking the car. lol,
a small tripod might help with the timer on the camera
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[CaptJoeVerdino]

Something that the tarpon tournies are starting to do is use a sling. It's simple to make at home just get some tarp or canvas and attach it to a pair of wood hand railings. Add a leash and drop it in the water, then guide the fish onto the sling. Once the fish is in the sling you close the sling like a taco and lift from both ends.This cradles the fishes weight and keeps the fish secure against the side of the boat. If you wanted you could add a couple eyes to the ends of the sling to tie it to the midships and stern cleats for hands free. Hope this helps.
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[davetclown]

you shoud be able to pick up a wall or rail mount and a mouse clicker, posibly even a remote mouse clicker....

its old school, but still a good tool....
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[tubeN2]

I would make sure that I have someone with me to take the picture. I wouldn't dare try it on the float tube for Whites though.

If I wanted to get technical, I would have a remote control and monitor to see the exact picture for a good pose while the fish is still on the line.

I am working on a setup for my new tube right now. It will have a swing arm, a timer set on the camera and a locking position to where if points right at me for the pic. Since my son is working on different boat than I am, I have no one else to take my pics for the contest.[cool]
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