Jet Ski Photography Tips: Capturing Lake Havasu from the Water
There’s nothing like the thrill of skimming across Lake Havasu on a jet ski, wind in your face, sun bouncing off the water—and if you’re lucky, a camera or smartphone in hand to catch every moment. Whether you’re aiming to snap action shots of your crew or frame the perfect view of the London Bridge, jet ski photography takes a bit of planning and creativity.
At London Bridge Watercraft, we see riders come back with epic shots—and sometimes some missed opportunities. So, here are our favorite jet ski photography tips to help you capture Lake Havasu’s energy and beauty, all from the water.
1. Use Waterproof and Secure Gear
The first rule of jet ski photography? Protect your gear. If you’re bringing your phone or camera onboard, make sure it’s:
In a waterproof case or pouch
Attached with a lanyard or float strap
Securely stored in a compartment or vest when not in use
GoPros or other action cameras with mounts are a popular choice—they’re compact, durable, and perfect for hands-free recording.
2. Shoot During Golden Hours
Lighting can make or break your photos. Early morning or late afternoon—known as golden hour—offers soft, warm light that flatters both landscapes and people. Plus, the water reflects that light beautifully.
Lake Havasu is especially stunning around sunrise or just before sunset. Try heading out around 6:30–8:30 AM or 5:30–7:30 PM (depending on the season) for that golden glow.
3. Play with Angles and Perspectives
A jet ski gives you unique access to low, water-level shots that aren’t possible from land. Experiment with:
Low angles, holding your camera just above the water for dramatic foregrounds
Wide shots, capturing the expanse of the lake or the iconic London Bridge
Over-the-shoulder views, pointing the lens behind you for action and landscape combined
If you’re riding in pairs or groups, consider snapping each other from different positions to get both candid and action shots.
4. Use Burst Mode or Video
Jet skiing is fast-paced, which makes burst mode or short video clips your best friend. Your phone or camera can take multiple frames quickly—so even if your timing’s not perfect, you’ll still catch a usable shot.
Later, you can select the best frames and even extract stills from video footage for Instagram-worthy moments.
5. Be Safe and Plan Ahead
Never sacrifice safety for a photo. Before you start snapping, make sure:
Your jet ski is stationary or idle
You’re clear of other watercraft and swimmers
You’ve told your group what you’re doing
Use calm coves or no-wake zones like Thompson Bay or near Rotary Beach to take your best shots without heavy waves or fast traffic.
6. Don’t Forget the Landmarks
Lake Havasu has some iconic visuals you don’t want to miss:
The London Bridge – Capture it from below for a grand perspective.
Copper Canyon – Known for its clear waters and cliffs.
Topock Gorge – A scenic stretch with stunning rock formations and wildlife.
Each location offers something different—so plan your ride around them and allow extra time to stop and shoot.
7. Edit Smart
After you’re off the water, a little editing goes a long way. Use apps like Lightroom Mobile, Snapseed, or VSCO to adjust exposure, contrast, and saturation. Just don’t overdo it—Lake Havasu’s natural colors are already stunning.
Final Thought: It’s All About the Memories
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a local enjoying your favorite water sport, taking time to photograph your ride helps keep the memories alive. And if you rent from us at London Bridge Watercraft, we’re always happy to give advice on where to ride and shoot.
Looking to rent a jet ski or capture Lake Havasu like a pro? Reach out to us—we’ll help you get set up with everything you need for a safe, fun, and photo-worthy day on the water.