Photo / Video News & Reviews
Scubaverse Underwater Photographer Interview: Ellen Cuylaerts
In an ongoing series, Scubaverse’s Underwater Photography Editors Nick and Caroline Robertson-Brown talk to underwater photographers from around the world that they admire. In this blog: Ellen Cuylaerts…
I relocated from Belgium to the Cayman Islands in 2009. I have a masters degree in modern history and education, but ended up working in IT until I decided to home-school my two gifted teenagers, relocating and taking up scuba diving in June 2011. Soon I became a Master Scuba Diver and combined it with photographing the wonders of the underwater world.
My main drive is shooting images that draw the viewer in, so an emotional bond is established between marine life and viewers that might not have a link with the underwater world. By creating an image that captures how I feel rather than what I see I hope to get people involved in protecting our blue planet. I’ve received awards for my pictures and was the 2013 World Champion in the yearly online underwater photo competition www.underwaterphotography.com. In June 2014, and again in 2015, I came first and second in the United Nations’ World Oceans Day Photo Competition. Those competitions have helped me to make my voice in conservation louder and also to mentor more people to use their images to contribute to education, preservation and awareness.
My work can be seen in exhibitions in Paris, St. Petersburg, Valencia, Marseille and New York. Last June I addressed Heads of State on World Oceans Day at the General Assembly of the United Nations highlighting the plight of photographers and filmmakers engaging in protection of the oceans. As a Fellow Explorer International I became a member of the Flag & Honors Committee of the Explorers Club, hence having a front seat at future explorations! I try to bring people together to work in a constructive way to be the change you want to see.
N&C: How did your underwater photography start?
EC: After relocating from Antwerp (Belgium) to the Caribbean, I decided to learn how to dive in 2011! I combined it with getting a new camera just for some me-time; I always wanted to study photography. I got a mirrorless EPL-II, kit lens, a housing and a strobe, the book “EPL-II for dummies”, an underwater photography course and I’ve never looked back.
N&C: What is your favourite u/w camera equipment (past & present) & why?
EC: My favorite setup is my Nikon D800 with a 16mm Nikkor fisheye lens and two sola video lights just in case I need extra light.
Shooting with a fixed fisheye lens makes you very aware of animal behavior, and the contact you need before you can even attempt a shot. Everything looks further away, you have to anticipate your approach taking light and behavior into account, and get as close as possible (otherwise your subject seems very far away). Most of the time shooting with the fisheye lens for big animal encounters can be a gamble. If you can’t get close, your shot will be less engaging. But if you can get close or the animal reveals itself in a great pose, a fisheye lens creates a depth that’s hard to create with any other lens. Be aware though to get yourself and your lens into the right position without harassing wildlife or damaging the environment, as every cm of your camera position counts in avoiding distortion of the subject.
N&C: What would be your advice to anyone new to underwater photography?
EC: Control your buoyancy at all times, only then start taking images. No picture is worth damaging the environment, marine life or yourself. Be a confident and aware diver and a good buddy. Don’t chase images but work on an image while keeping control of your dive. Observe, enjoy, think about whether it’s even worth attempting to take the image (is the background, the negative space interesting, the animal in a good position etc…) or if it would give you more joy to just watch behavior. Keep studying: diving AND photography. Simplify in extreme environments.
N&C: What, or who, has been your single biggest inspiration for your underwater photography?
EC: Brian Skerry, since his image of a harp seal in the water and the article in National Geographic, touched my heart years before I got into diving. When a print was auctioned at Christies some years ago, I even bought it and it’s on my wall in my office inspiring me every day. I was lucky and privileged to visit the ice floes in the Gulf of St. Lawrence where that image was taken twice and the fate of the harp seal pups every year depends on the ice but the decline in ice and the ‘big thaw’ are a sad reality and the harp seals to me are a symbolic ‘eyes of climate change’.
N&C: What image are you most proud of and why?
EC: The image I’m most proud of is ‘The elements’. It’s a Black and White image taken in a grotto with only natural light. It depicts a stream of silversides lit by the sun rays coming into the grotto at noon. That image took me patience, persistence (I saw the image happening before my eyes and almost got my settings dialed in when a group of divers swam through and I kept preparing just in case the school of fish would get back together and the stirred up sand would settle. It took me 50 more minutes of waiting), knowledge of light and photography. The moment I took the final image in raw, I could imagine how it would look after processing and after uploading it, I had the final version processed in two minutes. I took the image in the summer of 2013 and that was the moment I realized I was not just taking images but I knew what I was doing. I became a photographer.
N&C: Where is your favourite dive location, and is it for the photography?
EC: My favorite dive location is….haha UK! I’m totally crazy about your green waters, the cold, kelp, and friendly seals. I’ve visited Lundy during bad weather and sadly saw no seals but two visits to the Farne Islands are still putting a smile on my face. High on my list are diving the Scilly Isles and Hebrides. I think it’s the combination of raw nature, culture and history that will always attract me to the UK. Even if you have weather days on a trip, there’s so much to see and do (for me castles and hikes are all I need when I can’t go in the water).
N&C: What are you views on marine life manipulation, moving subjects?
EC: I have an ethical issue with moving subjects and I even have a hard time taking staged shots with divers. Moving marine life for a shot is wrong. The sad thing is it happens a lot and mostly by people who have no idea about animal behavior. Competitions and magazines should all take a stand and ban photographers with bad practices (also the ones standing on coral…or more generally, those not aware of their environment). Photographers and filmmakers are first hand witnesses of the underwater world and should act like best ambassadors in my opinion. Staged shots: that’s more a personal thing. I want to capture the moment and I prefer to catch it when it’s not expected as it feels more true. That being said, I have some ideas where I’ll have to give directions to divers and it will be my own biggest challenge to communicate what I feel before being in the water.
N&C: What do you look for when you are making your images?
EC: Serenity in chaos, purity in expression. Something has to move me: light or motion or contact. I can spend lots of time in the ocean just enjoying the effects of salt water, without even an attempt to take an image. Yet I’m always prepared for the unexpected, dialing into my settings, taking a test shot, looking around, admiring sun rays or the shade of clouds. There’s always something that can sparkle your inspiration. Beauty is everywhere.
N&C: What motivates you to take u/w photos?
EC: My main drive is to contribute to awareness about the importance of the oceans to our planet, to the animal world and to mankind, by evoking emotions in the viewer. I’ve just returned from the opening of a group exhibition in New York and to be able to bring these nature images to people living in a buzzing city and to start a dialogue about the challenges regarding pollution and climate change, is very rewarding. Every person that changes his behavior because of looking at a nature documentary or a wildlife image, is a necessary win.
The clock is ticking and the scale is getting very unbalanced. There is no time to waste.
N&C: If you could photograph any one thing/place what or where would that be?
EC: Narwhals while diving on a rebreather in the arctic waters are my ‘unicorn’ dream and I will make that happen ;-).
To find out more about Ellen, visit her website by clicking here.
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.”
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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.
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