How to Take Photos at the Water Park with Your iPhone
There’s something timeless about summer water days.
The floaty naps, the soaked-through snacks, the five-minute tantrum that turns into a perfect post-splash smile.
These are the kinds of moments worth capturing. But if the idea of bringing your iPhone anywhere near the pool makes you nervous, you’re not alone.
Good news: You can take pool and water park photos without sacrificing your phone—or your peace of mind. You just need a few tools and a bit of strategy.
The Waterproof Case I’ve been using
JOTO 2 Pack Waterproof Phone Pouch Case
You don’t need a fancy underwater rig. You just need something reliable that lets you use your camera through the case, not just store your phone inside.
Look for a case that:
Is labeled waterproof up to 2–3 meters (not just water-resistant)
Has a clear front for camera use
Allows full touchscreen access
Comes with a secure neck lanyard
What I use: JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch
If you’re also trying to find other vendors besides Amazon to purchase from these days, here is another option I found, but haven’t purchased from before.
Tips for Actually Using Your Phone in a Waterproof Case
Waterproof pouches are great—but they can be slippery, awkward, and hard to photograph through if you’re not prepared. Here’s what helps:
Test it before the outing. Take a few photos at home with your phone inside the case so you’re not fumbling when the moment hits.
Use Burst Mode. Water play is fast. Take 10 shots, not one, and pick your favorite later.
Tap to focus. Your iPhone may struggle to focus through the plastic. Tap your screen once to lock in focus before shooting.
Keep the lens area clean. One fingerprint inside the case ruins every photo. Wipe it clean before sealing.
Lazy River Logistics (aka Taking Photos Mid-Float)
If you’re braving the lazy river or wave pool and want to take photos without risking a full drop:
Wear the case on a neck lanyard or wrist strap
Angle your shot with the sun behind you
Hold your phone above water, and frame loosely, you can crop later
Embrace the blur. Sometimes the imperfect shot is the best one
You might only get one chance before your float flips or a water cannon hits. Lean into it.
The Unexpected Perk of Water Play Photography
Something about the chaos of water (wet hair, squinty grins, wrinkled fingers) makes for the most honest and expressive photos.
When kids aren’t posing, they’re more themselves. You get joy, surprise, and motion. And the best part? Everyone’s too distracted to say “cheese.”
Pool days, water parks, and splash pads don’t have to be a no-photo zone.
With a few smart tools and simple tips, you can safely capture the real summer magic without worrying about your gear. And when you look back years from now, those sun-soaked, soggy-bottomed memories will be the ones you’re most glad you kept.
Here for you,
Jess
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