Jet Ski Photo Tips: Capturing Lake Havasu Like a Pro
A jet ski ride on Lake Havasu is more than a thrill—it’s a front-row seat to some of Arizona’s most breathtaking scenery. From the shimmer of the lake to the rugged desert backdrop and iconic London Bridge, every turn offers a postcard-worthy view. If you’re planning to document your ride (and why wouldn’t you?), capturing those moments with the right techniques can turn an average phone snap into frame-worthy memories. At London Bridge Watercraft, we’ve seen countless riders become lakeside photographers—here’s how to make it happen.
Choose the Right Gear
You don’t need professional equipment to get incredible photos—just a bit of planning. A smartphone with a high-quality camera is more than enough, but make sure it’s secured in a waterproof pouch with a clear cover so you can still tap the screen. Action cameras like GoPros are excellent too, especially when mounted to your jet ski or worn on a chest or helmet strap for hands-free footage.
Bring a microfiber cloth in a dry bag to clean water droplets off your lens between shots, and if you’re using a phone, set it to burst mode to capture fast action. The more frames you have, the better your odds of nabbing that perfect spray shot.
Timing Is Everything
The best photos happen during “golden hour”—the first hour after sunrise and the last before sunset. Not only is the light softer and more flattering, but the water tends to be calmer, creating mirror-like reflections. If you’re out during midday, try to angle your shots away from harsh overhead light to avoid blown-out skies or shadows across faces.
Jet skiing at sunset? That’s prime time for dramatic silhouettes, water sparkles, and fiery desert skies—just slow down, line up your shot, and let nature do the rest.
Composition and Action
When photographing from your jet ski, remember the rule of thirds—don’t just center the subject. Position the jet ski or rider in one-third of the frame to create a sense of motion and space. Capture the trail of water behind you, the expression of a rider catching air, or the wide expanse of the lake with mountains in the background.
Some of the best shots include natural landmarks like the London Bridge, Copper Canyon cliffs, or small rocky islands. If you’re in a group, take turns photographing each other from different angles—one riding, one snapping. Bonus tip: use burst mode during turns or jumps to freeze action mid-splash.
Safety First, Always
Never compromise safety for a shot. Pull over to a calm area or anchor before taking out your phone or camera. Use the wrist straps on your gear, and never try to take photos while moving fast or navigating wakes.
If you’re riding tandem, the passenger can safely capture footage while the driver focuses on control. And don’t forget to check in with your group—everyone will want copies of the best moments, so be the one who got them.
Turn Memories into Keepsakes
Once you’ve captured your Lake Havasu jet ski experience, why not turn it into more than just a photo dump? Create a highlight reel, make a mini-album, or share your top shots on social media with #LondonBridgeWatercraft so we can feature your adventures.
Our team can also recommend GoPro mounts or accessories at checkout, and we’re always happy to point you toward the most photogenic areas of the lake.
Ready to Ride (and Shoot)?
Lake Havasu offers stunning views, vibrant energy, and endless chances to catch the perfect wave—and the perfect picture. Rent your jet ski today at https://londonbridgewatercraft.com, and bring your camera spirit. Whether you’re shooting for Instagram or your family photo album, we’ll help you ride like a pro and shoot like one too.
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