Photography

Costa Rica is a photographer's dream, but be sure to buy your full supply of film before you leave home. Larger cities may sell the type of film you need, but it is very expensive. Avoid disappointment and take a generous supply with you, 2 - 3 rolls for every day on tour. Officially the customs laws limit import of film to six rolls, but this is rarely checked or enforced, especially since it is for your own personal use and not resale. Professional photographers recommend Fuji Velvia with speeds of 100 or 400 for low light conditions, or high-speed Ektachrome ASA 400, even 1000. You must use fast film in the rain forests; nearly ninety percent of the light is filtered out by the canopy. Take along extra batteries and a cover to protect your camera from the elements. Tiny packets of silica gel are useful for reducing humidity. Heat will alter the emulsion and affect color quality; keep your camera and your film supply in the shade. Both a telephoto and a wide-angle lens will be invaluable for capturing special shots of the flora and fauna. A polarizing filter is recommended for eliminating reflections from the ocean or sand.

Please do not use a flash on the sea turtles as they nest or lay their eggs, if this is part of your program. Viewers will be asked to observe this from a respectful distance, with binoculars.

DID YOU KNOW?
The basilisk lizard has the nickname of the “Jesus Christ Lizard” because of the illusion that it can walk on water.  They actually have large hind feet with flaps of skin between each toe. The fact that they move quickly across the water, aided by their web-like feet, gives them this appearance of walking on water.