How To Take Pictures In A Cave

Cave and cavern tours is something our family has done several times. They take you down in groups and you walk through and your guide tells you it's history and explains points of interest within. People always have cameras, and flashes are constantly going off as they try to photograph some of the interesting formations. The result: pictures that look flat.

Usually, whoever maintains the caverns also installs and maintains the lighting, which is often placed in order to make things appear more dramatic. Using a flash completely obliterates the shadows and interesting details that were by the lighting that was put in place:

Here's how to do it better:

1. TURN OFF THE FLASH
2. If your camera has manual settings try aperture priority, go with your fastest setting (the lowest number f-stop your camera will allow).
3. Increase your ISO.

OR..one of my favorite tricks...

Take a photo using full AUTO settings (with flash off). See how the photo looks, switch to one of the manual settings and adjust accordingly.

Why not shutter priority? The shutter speed will be long, and you'd probably need a tripod to use that setting. Chances are good you're not going to be allowed to bring one in. Many of these caverns are small and there are times when you'll need to fit through small spaces. Plus you'll probably be on the tour with at least 10 other people and some of the rooms are cramped...just leave it in the car.

And, as always, read and re-read your manual.