Don't Forget Your Camera On Your Colorado River Raft Trips

By Stephen Daniels

Hatch River Expeditions

White water rafting the Grand Canyon presents unrivaled opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime photographic experiences. Every moment of a Colorado River raft trip encourages an exceptional shot of everything from rushing rapids to quiet pools to sparkling waterfalls. The spectrum of colors and the vast archaeological history on the walls of the canyon itself are unparalleled compared to any other location on the planet, and the sheer size and magnificence of the canyon is something that must be seen and experienced to be believed.

Because the canyon is so enormous, almost all of it is hidden from view from virtually every single vantage point on or in the canyon. This is equally as true from the river as it is from the rims of the Canyon. There are a plethora of concealed coves, pools and remains of ancient pueblos of indigenous people. Usually, in order to view the wonders of the canyon, even rafters must take side hikes from the banks of the river.

Havasu Creek, renowned for its incredibly blue water, the huge waterfalls at Shinamu and Deer Creek and the renowned Elves Chasm along with its hanging gardens are just some of the stunning vistas just waiting for a point and shoot. A sharp eye and a quick finger can also record native wildlife in its natural habitat; deer and big-horn sheep can often be seen, along with smaller species like coyotes, foxes and ringtail cats, several species of lizards and dozens of colorful birds. And, for individuals who keep a watchful eye, it could be possible to see one of the very endangered California condors that have been introduced into the Canyon in recent years.

Needless to say, watertight cameras are preferable for filming while on the water, even if it's just a lower priced throw-away. Lacking this, a regular camera can be kept safe through use of a dry bag, which is essentially a waterproof travel case with a clear plastic or optical glass area through which the camera can see. When it comes to discussion about digital versus film, these days the former is preferred by most rafting photography enthusiasts, for a number of reasons. First of all, there is no limit to the number of shots one can store digitally (depending on the size of your storage device). In addition, during the time it takes to exchange a roll of film, one can miss out on an amazing volume of exciting shots, particularly when rafting through rapids. And of course, most digital cameras these days can also record videos, so one can possibly photograph the panorama while moving at breakneck speed down the raging rapids.

According to most professional photographers, digital cameras are better for capturing night skies and dimly lit vistas than traditional cameras. Dont forget to look up at night, as there are no city lights to block out those impressive starlit skies that can be seen from the floor of the canyon. And, by all means you should definitely look around at the vast landscapes in front of you as you careen down river, or settle into your campsite every evening. Tripods are very useful, especially for long exposure photos - however, it is important to check with your guide about whether or not storage is available. Of course, without available electricity, extra batteries are highly recommended.

Most outfitters that guide Colorado River raft trips offer trips of differing lengths especially intended for photography addicts, and are founts of information on the best locations and most efficient gear, for both amateurs and pros. These guides are experts on the background and geography of the canyon as well, so can answer questions about what youre seeing, and can lead you to some of the most unusual spots within trekking distance of the river. The Grand Canyon is one of the most diverse and ever-changing sources of magnificent vistas and scenery on this planet. Even if all you carry is a point and shoot camera, everything you could aim your camera at is sure to record a memory of an unforgettable trip down river.

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About the Author:

If you are into photo ops in the Grand Canyon during a river rafting trip, author Stephen Daniels highly recommends you look to Colorado River rafting trips guided by knowledgeable and experienced guides at Hatch River Expeditions. Theyll make sure to take you on extraordinary side trips, and will be sure to point out when great photo ops lie straight ahead as you ride the rapids and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.