Photos of Common Dolphins

Common dolphin, Delphinus delphis, San Diego, California

Common dolphin.
Image ID: 00071
Species: Common dolphin, Delphinus delphis
Location: San Diego, California, USA

These common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) are gathered just under the surface of the water in front of my boat. We’ll motor slowly, leaning over the bow, trying to get a good picture of them without it looking like it was taken through a shower door. Its pretty hard to get one where the surface disappears entirely — if the water is glassed off then the sky is usually overcast and makes the shot hazy, and if the sky is clear blue then there is usually wind which chops up the surface. This is about the best I’ve done at this sort of shot — so far.

About Phil Colla

I am a natural history photographer. I enjoy making compelling images in the ocean, on land, and in the air. I have maintained the Natural History Photography blog since 2005 and my searchable Natural History Photography Library since 1997. Here are some tear sheets and behind the scenes views. Thanks for looking!