Camera Choice
DSLR or mirrorless with macro lens (60mm or 100mm) ideal.
Modern smartphone with Pro mode handles 80% of hobby photography.
Tank Preparation
Clean front glass inside and out the day of the shoot.
Turn off filter for 5 minutes before shooting to remove surface ripples and bubbles.
Use black or plain backdrops behind the tank to isolate subjects.
Lighting Setup
Two LED panels at 45° angles 30cm from glass.
Diffuser paper over each LED softens harsh shadows.
Match color temperature to 5500K daylight.
Camera Settings
Shutter speed 1/250 or faster to freeze fish motion.
ISO 400 to 1600 depending on LED power.
Aperture f/5.6 for sharpness with some background blur.
Video Tips
1080p 60fps for sharp slow-motion playback.
Stabilize camera on tripod or gimbal.
Edit in DaVinci Resolve (free) or CapCut for color correction.