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Antarctic Seals image wins Underwater Photographer of the Year 2020

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A balletic photograph of crabeater  seals  swirling  around  an  iceberg sees French photographer Greg Lecoeur named Underwater Photographer of the Year 2020.

Lecoeur’s photograph triumphed over 5500 underwater pictures entered by underwater photographers from 70 countries around the world.

© Greg Lecoeur/UPY2020

To shoot “Frozen Mobile Home” Lecoeur travelled to Antarctica on a small yacht, enabling him to document the wildlife on icebergs as they drift at the whim of polar currents.

“Massive and mysterious habitats,” explains Lecoeur, “little is known about how wildlife thrives around these mobile homes. Icebergs fertilize the oceans by carrying nutrients from land that spark blooms of marine life and also provide homes for larger animals, like these crabeater seals.”

Lecoeur lives in Nice, France, but works full time as a photographer, travelling the world documenting life in the oceans.

Chair of the competition judges, Dr Alexander Mustard MBE, commented: “The motion of these seals and the ethereal landscape of the pitted iceberg takes our eyes on a journey through the frame and transports us to the icy ocean of Antarctica.”

In  the  same  contest,  Italian  photographer, Pasquale  Vassallo was  named Marine Conservation Photographer of the Year 2020 for his photo, revealing the final moments of a tuna’s life as it is hauled up towards a fishing boat.

© Pasquale Vassallo/UPY2020

Vassallo took the photo “Last Dawn, Last Gasp” in the Mediterranean Sea, near his hometown of Naples. “This winter I accompanied some local fishermen,” explains Vassallo. “Diving at dawn, I followed the nets as they were hauled up from the depths, revealing a conveyor belt of dead and dying wildlife, such as this little tunny tuna gasping for life.”

Competition judge Peter Rowlands commented: “If a picture paints a thousand words, then a great one asks a thousand questions.”

Judge Mustard continues: “the ocean faces many threats,  including  climate  change,  overfishing  and  plastic pollution,  and  the  conservation section of the Underwater Photographer of the Year gives a platform for the photographers, who are our eyes in and on the ocean seeing these issues first-hand. Much of what happens in the oceans goes unseen, but such powerful images help make more of us aware.”

The  Underwater  Photographer  of  the  Year  competition  also  aims  to  promote  new photographic talent. Anita Kainrath, from Austria, was named as Up & Coming Underwater Photographer  of  the  Year  2020 for  an  uplifting  picture  of  baby  lemon  sharks  thriving  in  a mangrove in the Bahamas. Her image “Shark Nursery” is not only beautiful, but it shows how important mangroves are, not just for protecting tropical coastlines, but also in the lives of endangered species.

© Anita Kainrath/UPY2020

Kainrath, from Vienna, explains the challenges in producing the image: “I was standing in knee-high water, trying to hold my camera still, waiting for the sharks, while mosquitoes and sand-flies were feasting on me! After about an hour the lemon shark pups finally came into photographic range and I was able to make this image.”

Judge Rowlands commented:  “Her  perseverance  has  definitely  paid  off  with a beautifully balanced and observed image.”

The Underwater Photographer of the Year contest is based in the UK, and makes two awards specifically to British photographers. Nick More, from Devon, England was named as British Underwater  Photographer  of  the  Year  2020 for  his  pop-art  style  photograph “Rabbitfish Zoom Blur” taken in Indonesia. “I created this effect in camera,” explains More, “by zooming my lens at the same time as I hit the shutter. My flash has frozen the central fish while the ambient light is blurred by the zooming.”

© Nick More/UPY2020

The  title  of Most  Promising  British  Underwater  Photographer 2020 goes to Nur Tucker from Wimbledon, London for an artistic panning photo of a seahorse. Her creative image “Commotion in the Ocean” uses an in-camera  double  exposure  to  create  a feeling of waves surrounding this seahorse. Tucker explains: “I love experimenting and I have tried  many  different  techniques,  with  varying  degrees  of  success!  After  many  attempts, everything came together with this shot.”

© Nur Tucker/UPY2020

Underwater Photographer of the Year is an annual competition, based in the UK, that celebrates photography beneath the surface of the ocean, lakes, rivers and even swimming pools.  British  photographer  Phil  Smith  was  the  first  Underwater  Photographer  of  the  Year, named in 1965. Today’s competition attracts  entries  from  all  around  the  world, has  13 categories,  testing  photographers  with  themes  such  as  Macro,  Wide  Angle,  Behaviour  and Wreck photography, as well as four categories for photos taken specifically in British waters. This year’s judges were experienced underwater photographers Peter Rowlands, Martin Edge and Alex Mustard.


To see all the incredible images that were placed in this years awards, or to learn more about the competition please visit the UPY website by clicking here.

To download the free 180 page downloadable Yearbook please click here.

Blogs

Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

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underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

underwater videography course

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.

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The Benefits of Underwater Photography Workshops

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underwater photography workshop

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!

underwater photography workshop

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

  1. Improve Your underwater photography
  2. Learn from professionals
  • Learn from other participants
  1. Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
  2. Try put new techniques
  3. Learn how to maximize your camera rig
  • Phenomenal travel opportunities
  • Memorable experience and new friendships

underwater photography workshop

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.

underwater photography workshop

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 8th10th (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:

https://www.lembehresort.com/featured/capturing-critters-in-lembeh-underwater-photography-workshop-2025/

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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