Floating hides for wildlife photography

A floating hide helps you photograph birds and other wildlife from an exceptionally low position close to the water surface. The inflatable tube supports your camera setup and camouflage tent while you move on foot through suitable shallow water.

This gives you a different perspective from photographing from the bank. Waterbirds are photographed closer to their eye level, while the water in front of and behind the subject often creates a calm, soft image.

Floating hide photography is a specialised form of wildlife photography. It requires suitable water, careful preparation, appropriate clothing and strict attention to personal safety.

What is a floating hide?

A floating hide consists of an inflatable tube, a low camouflage tent and one or more mounting plates for a camera support.

The photographer stands or walks inside the opening of the tube while keeping their feet on the bottom. The inflatable construction supports the camera and hide, but it is not intended to carry the photographer like a boat.

The camouflage tent conceals the photographer's head, upper body and movements. Photography openings allow the camera and telephoto lens to point over the water while viewing windows provide visibility in several directions.

A floating hide is intended for one experienced photographer working in still, shallow water and close to the shore.

Why photograph wildlife at water level?

Photographing close to the water surface creates a very different image from photographing downwards from a bank.

A water-level camera position may provide:

• A perspective closer to the eye level of waterbirds

• A stronger visual connection with the subject

• A soft foreground created by the water surface

• A calmer and more distant background

• Reflections that become more prominent in the composition

• A less recognisable human outline than an uncovered photographer

A floating hide does not guarantee that wildlife will ignore your presence. Move slowly, maintain a suitable distance and stop when an animal changes its behaviour because of you.

Meet the Buteo Floating Hide Grebe II

The Buteo Photo Gear Grebe II is a one-person floating hide developed using practical experience and feedback from wildlife photographers.

It combines a PVC floating tube with 2 separate air chambers, a reed-pattern camouflage tent and 2 camera mounting positions. The 2 air chambers provide additional redundancy, but both chambers must always be fully inflated and checked before use.

The complete setup weighs approximately 6.1 kg. The external dimensions of the tube are approximately 150 x 112 cm, while the internal opening measures approximately 125 x 52 cm.

The camouflage tent measures approximately 120 cm long, 110 cm wide and 80 cm high.

Two camera positions for different perspectives

The Grebe II includes 2 mounting plates, allowing you to position your camera at the front or rear of the floating hide.

Front camera position

The front position provides a low shooting angle and includes a fixed snoot around the lens opening. This snoot helps conceal the lens and provides some protection against splashes and light rain.

A safety net can be fitted at the front of the internal opening. This reduces the risk of small accessories falling directly into the water.

Rear camera position

The rear mounting position is even lower than the front position. This allows you to place the camera lens extremely close to the water surface.

A second fixed snoot and viewing windows are integrated into the rear of the tent. Choose the position that best suits your camera, lens, water depth and desired composition.

Only change or install the camera position while you are safely on land.

Which camera support works on a floating hide?

The mounting plates accept a suitable ball head or gimbal head. A gimbal head is particularly practical for supporting a large telephoto lens and following moving birds.

A ball head provides a more compact option for lighter camera and lens combinations.

Always attach the tripod head firmly to the mounting plate before entering the water. Check that the camera and lens are locked securely into the head.

The use of a bean bag is not recommended. A bean bag does not lock the camera mechanically to the floating hide, increasing the risk of equipment sliding or falling into the water.

Consider attaching an additional safety cord between your equipment and one of the available attachment rings. A safety cord does not replace correct mounting, but it adds a further layer of protection.

Where can you use a floating hide safely?

The Grebe II is intended only for still, shallow water where your feet remain in contact with the bottom.

Potential locations include suitable parts of:

• Shallow ponds

• Small lakes

• Calm pools

• Sheltered wetland areas

• Shallow water close to a safe shoreline

Never use the floating hide in:

• Flowing rivers

• Strong currents

• Deep water

• Offshore water

• Areas near locks, weirs or sluices

• Heavy boat traffic

• Strong or offshore wind

• Thunderstorms

• Water with an unknown or unsafe bottom

A location that looks calm from the shore may still contain sudden depth changes, mud, holes, underwater obstacles or hidden currents. Inspect the location and check local conditions before entering.

Never use a floating hide alone

A floating hide should never be used without another person present. Arrange for a responsible person to remain on the shore and monitor you throughout the session.

Tell this person where you intend to enter the water, where you plan to move and how long the session should last.

Carry a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof bag or case. Make sure the person on shore knows how to contact the emergency services and can clearly describe your location.

Always obtain permission from the landowner or water manager before entering the water. Check local rules relating to access, nature protection, photography and water recreation.

Wear appropriate personal safety equipment

Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device. The floating hide is not a replacement for personal safety equipment.

A whistle attached to the life jacket helps you attract attention when necessary.

Wear clothing suited to the water temperature, air temperature and length of the session. Depending on the conditions, this may include:

• A wetsuit

• Chest waders

• A drysuit

• Warm insulating underclothing

• Suitable water footwear

• Gloves and thermal protection

A drysuit with appropriate warm layers provides better protection during colder conditions. Waders alone do not prevent cold water shock and may become difficult to move in when filled with water.

Open water may remain dangerously cold even when the air feels warm. Enter the water gradually and never underestimate the effect of cold water on breathing, coordination and physical strength.

Check the water depth and bottom

The safest locations are shallow enough for your feet to remain firmly on the bottom.

Walk through the intended area carefully before bringing expensive equipment into the water. Check for:

• Sudden drops

• Deep mud

• Slippery stones

• Tree roots

• Fishing lines

• Sharp objects

• Underwater vegetation

• Unstable banks

• Strong currents

Do not continue when the water becomes too deep, the bottom feels unstable or you cannot return to the shore easily.

Never exceed your own physical abilities. A long session in cold water, heavy clothing or soft mud may become tiring more quickly than expected.

Maximum load and one-person use

The Grebe II is designed for 1 person only. Never allow a second person to enter or lean on the floating hide.

The maximum combined load for the photographer and all equipment is 130 kg. This includes:

• The photographer

• Clothing and footwear

• Camera and lens

• Tripod head

• Accessories

• Bags attached to the hide

Do not exceed this total load.

The floating hide is not intended for children under 12. Users between 12 and 18 must be directly supervised by an adult and must fully understand the safety instructions.

How do you set up the Grebe II?

Set up the complete floating hide on land before entering the water.

Check every component

Inspect the inflatable tube, air chambers, seams, valves, outer cover and attachment points. Do not use the hide when you notice damage, leakage or unusual pressure loss.

Check that all components from the delivery are present and undamaged.

Inflate both air chambers evenly

Inflate the 2 chambers gradually. First partly inflate both chambers, then continue until they are correctly filled.

Do not fully inflate one chamber while leaving the other empty. Never overinflate the tube.

Air pressure rises when the temperature increases or when the inflated hide is left in direct sunlight. Release some air when necessary and check the pressure again before entering the water.

Install the mounting plates and camera support

Slide the required mounting plate into position and attach the ball head or gimbal head securely.

Install the camera and lens while the hide is still on land. Setting up expensive photography equipment after entering the water creates unnecessary risk.

Open and attach the tent

Open the umbrella-style frame carefully and check that all poles and connectors are in the correct position.

Place the tent over the floating tube and connect the poles and elastic fasteners to the designated attachment points.

Fit the camouflage covers over the conical ends of the tube and install the safety net where required.

Viewing windows and visibility

The Grebe II has viewing windows at the front, rear and both sides.

The windows contain insect netting, helping conceal the interior while still providing visibility. Open only the windows you need and keep movements inside the tent slow and controlled.

Good visibility is essential for safety as well as photography. Regularly check:

• The distance to the shore

• Changes in water depth

• Other water users

• Boats

• Wildlife around the hide

• Weather changes

• Wind direction

Never allow the camouflage tent to block your ability to navigate safely.

Camouflaging the floating hide

The Grebe II uses a reed camouflage pattern designed for wetlands, reed beds and water edges.

The tent includes loops and attachment points for adding suitable local camouflage or a lightweight camouflage net. Only add clean, lightweight materials that do not interfere with visibility, camera movement or safety equipment.

Do not attach so much vegetation that the hide becomes heavy, unstable or difficult to move.

Never damage living vegetation or remove protected plants. Follow the rules of the area and remove all added camouflage after the session.

Photograph wildlife responsibly

A floating hide may make your human shape less recognisable, but wildlife may still notice your movement, direction or approach.

Approach slowly and avoid moving directly towards an animal. Give birds and mammals enough room to move away freely.

Stop or increase your distance when wildlife:

• Repeatedly looks towards you

• Moves away from feeding or resting areas

• Gives alarm calls

• Protects young

• Changes direction because of your presence

• Stops normal behaviour

Never use a floating hide to approach active nests, breeding colonies or dependent young at close range.

Is the Grebe II waterproof?

The camouflage tent is made from 150D polyester with a stated hydrostatic head of 2,500 mm. This provides protection during rain and showers.

The viewing windows and photography openings are not fully waterproof. Water may enter through these areas, especially during wind-driven or prolonged rain.

The 2 supplied storage bags are made from waterproof material, but the zips are not waterproof. Store sensitive accessories in separate sealed waterproof cases or dry bags.

No camera equipment should be considered protected from water solely because it is positioned inside the floating hide.

Cleaning and storing the floating hide

Clean the tube with fresh water after every session. This is especially important after use in salt or brackish water.

Rinse dirt and salt from:

• The floating tube

• Valves

• Zips

• Mounting points

• Tent fabric

• Attachment rings

Allow all components to dry completely before long-term storage. Damp fabric and trapped moisture may cause staining, odours or mould.

Store the hide in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and major temperature fluctuations.

Do not leave the fully inflated tube in a hot vehicle or direct sunlight. Heat causes the air inside to expand and may create excessive pressure.

What is included with the Grebe II?

The standard delivery includes:

• 1x Floating tube

• 1x Camouflage tent with integrated frame

• 2x Camouflage covers for the tube ends

• 2x Camera mounting plate

• 1x Brass 3/8 inch mounting screw

• 1x Air pump

• 2x Storage bag

• 1x Safety net

• 1x Repair kit

• 1x Large transport bag

• 1x Medium-sized storage bag

• 1x User manual

A ball head, gimbal head, camera, lens, personal flotation device and protective clothing are not listed as part of the standard delivery.

Frequently asked questions about floating hides

Is the floating hide a boat?

No. The Grebe II is intended as a specialised one-person photography platform for still, shallow water. It is not a boat and must not be used to cross deep water or travel away from the shore.

Can I use the floating hide alone?

No. A responsible second person should remain on the shore and monitor you during the complete session.

Do I need a life jacket?

Yes. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device. The inflatable tube does not replace this personal safety equipment.

Can I use the hide in deep water?

No. Use it only where your feet remain in secure contact with the bottom. Do not use it in deep water, running water or strong currents.

What is the maximum load?

The maximum combined load of the photographer and equipment is 130 kg.

Is the tent waterproof?

The 150D polyester tent has a hydrostatic head of 2,500 mm. The photography openings, viewing windows and other openings are not completely waterproof.

Which tripod head should I use?

Use a securely attached ball head or gimbal head. A gimbal head is particularly suitable for supporting a heavy telephoto lens. The manual advises against using a bean bag.

Can I mount 2 cameras?

The Grebe II includes 2 mounting plates, but the product remains a one-person floating hide. Whether 2 camera setups are practical depends on their combined size, weight and the maximum total load. Keep the working area clear and never exceed 130 kg.

What should I wear?

Wear a life jacket and clothing suited to the water temperature. A wetsuit, waders or drysuit may be appropriate depending on the conditions. A drysuit with warm underclothing is the preferred option for colder water.

Can I use the floating hide during winter?

Use in cold conditions requires specialist clothing, experience and careful risk assessment. Cold water can quickly affect breathing and movement. Do not enter when conditions, water temperature or your experience make the session unsafe.