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Scubaverse Underwater Photographer Interview: Jason Isley
In an ongoing series, Scubaverse.com’s Underwater Photography Editors Nick and Caroline Robertson-Brown talk to underwater photographers from around the world that they admire.
This week’s interview is with Sabah-based underwater photographer Jason Isley.
I’m originally from the UK but have now lived in Sabah for 20 years, happily married with a 2 week old daughter which I’m sure will be the reason to reduce my many trips away exploring the underwater world. I grew up in the UK with a keen interest in the natural world, always over the marshes or woods bird watching when I was young and whenever my parents took us on holiday abroad we would spend many hours snorkeling or exploring the rock pools – catching weird little creatures and keeping them in jam jars.
I’m an old photographer! One of the people that rabbits on about the film days and only having 36 exposures to play with on a single dive!
N/C: How did your underwater photography start?
JI: I learnt to dive in Australia and immediately had a job on one of the many dive boats. I tried a few pics with a disposable underwater camera but it wasn’t until I moved to Sipadan to help create Scubazoo that I tried photography more seriously. My job was filming guests every single day diving Sipadan and one day a guest offered his NikV to play with during my fun dives. I loaded the film and went for a dive and as soon as the film was processed I was immediately hooked. It was so challenging, unlike the filming which had become so repetitive. I loved that challenge of capturing a story in a single frame.
N/C: What is your favourite u/w camera equipment (past & present) & Why?
JI: Even though it didn’t belong to me I loved that NikV with the 15mm lens, the sharpness was amazing. I’m currently using Nikon D800 in Nauticam housings and I would have to say I have no plans for trading them in. The Nauticam housing has really taken over the housing market, and for good reason – and what I like about the company is that they listen to your feedback and are always trying to improve rather than just brush you off.
N/C: What would be your advice to anyone new to underwater photography?
JI: Buy two books (Underwater Photography by Martin Edge & Underwater Masterclass by Alex Mustard) and go on a trip with a good recognised pro – that will increase the speed of your knowledge and technique. Then, when you have the basics under control, try and find your own style; and don’t just follow underwater photographers, look at topside photographers and artists to get inspiration. There is now far too much repetition in underwater photography – the same images are constantly being uploaded online again and again, so try to think outside the box.
N/C: What, or who, has been your single biggest inspiration for your underwater photography?
JI: David Doubilet. I know many people quote his name, but his book Water, Light, Time is probably the best ever underwater photography book. I love the fact people are ‘creating’ new techniques in underwater photography and yet they all already exist in that book!
N/C: If you could photograph any one thing/place what or where would that be & Why?
JI: It may sound corny but I can’t wait to show my new daughter the underwater world when she is old enough. Photographing her amongst the big schools of fish and next to the turtles at Sipadan will be an incredible experience. I just hope there are still plenty of great dive locations left by the time she is old enough to dive!
Jason has recently published a book called Small Blue World and you can read a review about it here.
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Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
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The TR-80, IR-50, CS-30 (DIN & INT) regulators and the Octopus OP-30 are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.
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Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
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