The newspaper photo is optional, and the safe version starts at an open, managed beach during active lifeguard service. Keep the photographer on dry land, and try the pose only if you are stable and staff permit it. High buoyancy does not guarantee that every person can sit comfortably or safely.
By DeadSea.com Editorial
Last reviewed: September 2026
Where should you take the photo?
Choose a declared, open beach with lifeguards and freshwater showers. The Israel beaches guide helps compare managed options.
Do not search for an empty shoreline. Retreating-shore areas can be unstable, and an unmarked access point may have no safe entry, staff, or rinse water.
Who should hold the camera?
The easiest setup has one person on dry land taking the photograph. That keeps the phone or camera away from concentrated salt water and lets the person in the water focus on balance and staff instructions.
If you are traveling alone, ask whether a companion, guide, or another visitor can take the picture from shore. Do not carry an expensive device into the water just to recreate the pose.
How do you try the pose?
Enter as the lifeguard directs. Keep your face out of the water and do not dive, splash, or roll onto your stomach. Once you are stable, the photographer can hand you a lightweight, dry prop only if doing so does not disturb your balance.
Some people will not find the seated newspaper pose comfortable. Body position, mobility, confidence, waves, and beach entry all affect it. A normal floating portrait is a good alternative.
Leave the water immediately if you feel unstable or get salt in your eyes or mouth. The Dead Sea swimming safety rules explain the response and rinse steps.
What should you bring?
- A newspaper or lightweight printed prop that can get wet
- A towel and change of clothes
- Sandals or water shoes if the beach permits them
- Fresh drinking water
- A clean cloth and dry bag for equipment
- Any glasses strap or mobility aid approved for your visit
Do not use a heavy book, glass object, food, or anything that can injure someone or litter the beach.
How do you make the picture look better?
Frame the person with water and the eastern mountains, keep the horizon level, and take several quick photographs instead of prolonging the pose. A slightly higher position on dry land can show more of the body and the floating effect.
Morning and late-afternoon light may be softer than midday, but lifeguard service controls the water session. Never enter before opening or remain after service ends just for better light.
The broader Dead Sea photography guide covers phone protection, sunrise, sunset, and safe viewpoints.
What if the newspaper gets wet?
That is normal. Bring a spare or accept the imperfect result. Do not lean forward, reach into the water, or turn face-down to rescue a prop. Staff safety instructions and your balance come first.
Remove all paper from the beach when you finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can everyone sit and read while floating?
No. High buoyancy affects people differently, and the pose depends on balance, mobility, water conditions, and confidence.
Can I take the photo alone?
It is safer to keep the camera on shore. Ask someone to take the picture or use a shore-based setup where permitted.
How long should I stay in the water?
There is no universal session time in this guide. Follow lifeguard instructions, the site’s rules, and any personal medical advice, and leave sooner if you feel uncomfortable.
Can I take the picture at sunrise or night?
Only enter while the declared beach is open and active lifeguard service is operating. Night bathing is prohibited.
What should I do if salt reaches my eyes?
Leave the water, avoid rubbing, and rinse with fresh water at the managed facility. Seek on-site help if pain or vision problems continue.