What is an important factor to consider when aiming flash underwater?

When aiming flash underwater, the actual distance to the subject is crucial because it directly influences the illumination and clarity of the image you capture. Water can absorb light and change its color at different depths, which means that light intensity decreases over distance due to scattering and absorption. If you are too far from your subject, the flash may not provide sufficient brightness to effectively illuminate the scene, resulting in darker images that may lack detail. Properly gauging this distance allows for appropriate adjustments in flash output and positioning, enhancing the overall quality of the photograph.

While other factors such as the angle of incidence and depth of the water also play important roles in underwater photography, they do not directly address the immediate need to ensure that the light from the flash reaches the subject effectively. The type of underwater light used can affect color balance and quality, but understanding the actual distance to the subject remains the most critical consideration to ensure that your flash illuminates the subject as intended.