Photo / Video News & Reviews
Underwater Photography: Getting Started
I was talking to a friend the other day, a very experienced diver, and he told me that he really wants to improve his photography and asked for some advice, which of course I offered. I also pointed out that there were numerous people writing about the subject both on-line and in print. He said that he always gave up reading articles as he disliked the way in which they were written; either too geeky or too much me, me, me. So although not the first time this has been done, I thought I’d write a very straightforward piece about getting started in underwater photography.
I started out as a regular photographer, wildlife was my thing and I was fortunate enough to work alongside some pretty serious photographers, and I learnt a great deal. So when I started diving in the late 90’s my first thoughts were how I couldn’t wait to get my camera into the water. You can’t imagine my disappointment when I repeatedly produced rubbish, rubbish and more rubbish. All the stuff I’d learnt about photography over the years all of a sudden accounted for…nothing. You see underwater photography is more about diving skills and know how than it is about traditional photo technique. It is in fact, surprisingly, all about the water. On land you can plant your feet firmly on the ground, accurately compose your image and shoot. In the constantly moving underwater world this is not so easy. Additionally you’re shooting through one big murky filter – the water itself, which presents the biggest obstacles of all… and that is exactly what we’re going to discuss in this feature.
Diving Skills
First things first; before you even take a camera underwater you need to have a reasonable level of control over yourself in the water. It is very hard to compose an image if you’re drifting about all over the place, banging into the reef and your fellow divers. Many underwater photographic workshops even insist that you have a minimum number of dives before you can enrol on the course. Even the most experienced diver will experience difficulties when diving with a camera for the first time, especially larger cameras.
To help with this most dive clubs and shops offer courses to improve your buoyancy control. PADI, which is the largest of the diving organisations, offer a course called the PPB, which stands for Peak Performance Buoyancy. This tuition helps you maintain your position in the water and will massively help your photography and make you a better diver.
Of course there is no substitute for experience so practice, practice and more practice is the best route to better photos.
Basics
There are two key elements to underwater photography that make the difference between mediocrity and wow, look at that photo.
The first is wide angle lenses, and I don’t mean 28mm, I’m talking super wide. The second is colour correction; anybody who has taken a blue washed out underwater photo will know exactly what I mean. These are two cornerstones of UW photography and we’ll be looking at them in depth (forgiving the pun) later on, but it’s important to pick the right camera in the first place as many excellent cameras topside are limited down under.
The majority of compact cameras nowadays have much longer zoom lenses than before. This is great for general use but for underwater work it presents a problem. Longer zooms are physically bigger than shorter ones, and that means that the housing to encompass them must also be that much bigger and more specifically wider so the camera does not see the edge of the housing around the lens and cause vigneting. This makes fitting an accessory wide angle lens very difficult, if not impossible. We’ll talk about this more in a while.
The other major consideration when choosing a camera for UW use is custom or manual white balance. This is little used in general photography, most people opting for the AWB (auto white balance) setting, but for a diver, manual white balance is a godsend. It enables you very easily to add back in the colour lost underwater – and without further ado, let’s discuss that in more detail.
Manual White Balance
Daylight is a mixture of different coloured light. Cameras ‘see’ light differently to the way we do. We don’t tend to notice the way light appears differently indoors to out, or how different a fluorescent tube looks to an old fashioned light bulb; but the colour of their light varies, and it’s called colour temperature. Take a shot indoors without flash and the picture will look warm. Using a flash, which is essentially the same colour as daylight, corrects this tint. Thankfully digital cameras have onboard firmware that corrects these different colour temperatures. This feature is called AWB – auto white balance, and it’s the default setting on pretty much all cameras nowadays. OK, OK, I’m getting there, honest – what has this got to do with UW photography? As you submerge deeper and deeper underwater, red light is progressively absorbed, and photos look bluer and bluer. Enter manual white balance. This camera function is a godsend for divers. It enables us to add back in the red light lost at depth, and it does it very accurately. Additionally, as you manually set it, it is accurate for the depth you are at. Most cameras capable of being housed have an underwater mode; why not just use this? This mode only adds back in a set amount of red, which only correctly works at one specific depth, normally around ten metres. Above this depth it is adding too much red and below not enough. The manual or custom mode lets you set the white balance for your precise depth ensuring your pictures always look colourful.
Wide Angle Lenses.
The other cornerstone of UW photography that we talked about right at the beginning is the use of wide lenses. As I mentioned previously, it’s the water itself that is the biggest problem we encounter. Whatever camera you use whilst underwater you still have to take photos through the water, and the less water you shoot through the sharper and clearer the end result will be. For this reason it is very important when choosing a camera to accompany you on your sub-sea adventures that you pick one that will enable an accessory lens to be fitted, so check availability of accessories before you commit to purchase.
Depending on the camera’s lens – 24, 28 or 35mm on the back end – a typical add on lens will convert this to around about 16mm. Accessory lenses for UW use are normally measured in terms of field of view and measured loosely in degrees. For example, Inon’s UWL-H100 lens has a field of view of about 100°. What this means in real terms is that with a suitable compact camera, even a large subject (a wreck for example) can be photographed in its entirety from only a few metres away as opposed to tens of metres away without the add on lens, and therefore shooting through much less water, which makes for a cleaner, sharper and more colourful image. This also applies for smaller subjects, but this is where your buoyancy control comes in; you need fine control to manoeuvre very close to a small fast moving subject like an anemone fish.
Combine the use of wide angle lenses with custom white balance and you’ve got a very good basic understanding of underwater photography.
Of course this is only really rippling the surface of this field; we haven’t talked about macro, strobes, filters, locations and a wealth of other topics. We’ll talk about some of these another time.
Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces
NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.
Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.
Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking
Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:
“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.
A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”
About NovoScuba
Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.
With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.
Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!
Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.
EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba
NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.
NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.
A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission
NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.
NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.
Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration
NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.
Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.
NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.
Quality Training at a Great Price
NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.
Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity
At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.
Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success
NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.
Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload
Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.
Crossover Made Easy
For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.
Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership
NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:
- Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
- Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
- Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.
Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement
NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.
Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth
At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.
Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.
Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution
Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.
For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.
Are you just getting started out in underwater photography or are you a seasoned shooter who wants to take their images to the next level? Whatever you experience or ability, here’s an overview of underwater photography workshops.
What is an Underwater Photography Workshop?
The first thing to note is that this is not ‘school’! There are no compulsory classes and at workshops you are free to pick and choose what you take part in, or otherwise.
A huge part of learning and developing your skills is through experimentation, trial and error, responding to feedback, and honing your technique. Underwater photography workshops provide you with the perfect platform for practice and improvement.
There is no better alternative to hands on experience in an environment that is 100% dedicated to your development. Reading informative articles and watching videos on YouTube can never replace the value of one on one time with your camera rig, underwater!
Underwater photography workshops are generally structured around core components, namely: presentations, underwater practice, feedback and critique sessions, troubleshooting/one-on-one sessions, and technical support.
Other components of a workshop include dining, relaxing, and time for socializing too!
What Topics do Underwater Photography Workshops Cover?
Depending on the pro, the type of workshop and regional diving highlights, a wide range of topics may be covered from composition and lighting through to shooting techniques and editing.
Benefits of an Underwater Photography Workshop
- Improve Your underwater photography
- Learn from professionals
- Learn from other participants
- Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
- Try put new techniques
- Learn how to maximize your camera rig
- Phenomenal travel opportunities
- Memorable experience and new friendships
Underwater Photography Workshops in the Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
When it comes to underwater photography workshops that focus on shooting macro, muck diving, and unusual marine species, there can be no better destination on the planet than the Lembeh Strait.
The Critter Capital of the World, a Muck Diving Mecca, and the Twilight Zone are just a few of the names that have been given to this stretch of water over the years due to its high density, and diversity, of rare and unusual marine life.
Some of Lembeh’s most iconic species include the hairy frogfish, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, the Lembeh sea dragon, Mandarin fish, Bobbit worms, Rhinopias scorpionfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, tiger and harlequin shrimps, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin crabs, and where do we start with octopus? Here’s just a few… wunderpus, mimic, blue ring, hairy, long arm, starry night, and coconut… and the list goes on!
Dive conditions in the Lembeh Strait can be extremely favourable for underwater photographers. There is little to no current making both moving around and remaining stationary a breeze. The comfortably warm water temperatures reduce the cold that can also set in when not on the move.
Lembeh Resort and Underwater Photography Workshops
Lembeh Resort not only offers luxury accommodation in the Lembeh Strait but it is also offers a complete suite of facilities for underwater photographers and enthusiasts. Here is a ‘snapshot’ of the camera and imaging services that are on offer at Lembeh Resort – inside and outside of underwater photography workshops:
Photography Facilities
Lembeh Resort offers a suite of facilities for underwater photographers, including:
- The only Backscatter Authorized Photo Center in Asia
- Photo Center offering camera, housing, lights and accessory rentals and purchases, onsite repairs, onsite 3D printing of small components, professional support and assistance, full workshop support
- Full time onsite Photo Pro
- Full time onsite Marine Biologists
- Marine biology and underwater photography trained Dive Guides
- Spacious camera room with individual work spaces, lights, and power points
- Varied diving options including single dives in the Lembeh Strait, two or three tank dive trips, day trips to Bangka, east coast Lembeh trips, blackwater, bonfire, night, and Mandarin fish dives.
Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop 2025
The renowned Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop is back in January 2025 for the 12th year running!! This unique workshop is hosted by not one but three worldclass photo professionals. The 2025 workshop features: Ron Watkins (USA), Paul Duxfield (UK), and Renee Capozzola (USA). The week-long workshop promises to be packed with incredible diving, Pro presentations, and one-on-one instruction and feedback.
2025 Workshop Schedule and Dates:
- Pre-Workshop: January 8th ––10th (time to relax and unwind after traveling and enjoy some of Lembeh’s famous dive sites.)
- Workshop: January 11th – 17th (Capturing Critters in Lembeh 12th Annual Workshop)
- Workshop Extension: January 18th – 19th (Additional Day Workshop Extension)
- Post-Workshop: January 20th – 21st (Stay additional nights and enjoy extra diving days or some time to relax and explore more of North Sulawesi)
Find Out More:
Meet the pros and find out more about the Capturing Critters in Lembeh 2025 underwater photography workshop, including prices and workshop inclusions, here:
If you are ready to book your place on the January 2025 Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop – contact Lembeh Resort at: reservations@LembehResort.com.
-
News2 months agoIconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News3 months agoBook Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News3 months agoDYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News3 months agoExploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News3 months agoTry BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation3 months agoBook Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
Blogs2 months agoDive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive
-
News3 months ago2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced