National Geographic and the Flying Fish of Timor Sea

Every so often I capture a shot or two that I really enjoy sharing. I am jumping ahead here with my post, but I wanted to coincide with the April 2010 publication of National Geographic Magazine. Although I didn't get a full page or anything close to it (My Shot section), I am happy to say that the photo below this paragraph was chosen for publication in April's special "Water" issue of National Geographic.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea. Published in National Geographic Magazine

After I left Indonesia, I was sailing down towards Australia through the Timor sea. The sea there was the calmest I had ever seen in my life. The sun was shining and would create interesting light effects on the water, as well as the shiny surface of the fish. You can see the purple color throughout the water pattern of the fish in the photo below.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

The water, for the most part, was like looking into a mirror. This reflection would cause the sky and horizon to be one at times.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

Of course, sailing through the water would cause a bit of rippling and end up in my shots, but this added an interesting texture to the photos.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

These Flying Fish were incredible. I had never seen them in real life and it had taken me a few minutes to figure out what they were. The sound of their wings, especially when there were groups of them, was just amazing. What surprised me was how far they could actually fly before returning to the surface. I especially thought it was interesting how often the very tip of their tail was used for guiding as they skimmed across the water. The tail would leave a zig-zag pattern in the water that was mesmerizing. You should have an idea as to how fast they were actually moving by the frozen-in-time water pattern that was left behind in some of the shots. Droplets of water were still suspended in the air.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

The funny thing is that I was trying to capture photos of Dolphins...who happen to be hiding out that day. So, instead, I thought that it might be fun to photograph the unusual fish.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

These fish move extremely fast. It was ridiculous how fast. I spent quite a while leaning over the boat and waiting for each moment that a few of these beauties would fly out away from our wake. It wasn't until I looked at my photos later and up close that I noticed the various species. Often the color or pattern on the wings would vary.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

Due to the high speed and needed camera settings, a few of them came out a little grainy, but that's to be expected. The color of light and water would vary, depending on what side of the boat I was on. One side had direct sunlight and the other side had a shadow. I often ran back and forth since they would seem to change sides on occasion.

Flying Fish in the Timor Sea

NOTE: I get lots of email requests for prints of the Flying Fish photos. The prints are available for purchase by clicking on the following link. There are many options for prints (starting at about $12) or Framed and matted prints (with a choice of frames, mats, etc..) and even Canvas or Gallery wraps. There are also other good selling prints from my collection at the same storefront. The link is HERE.

Thanks! Luther Bailey