October 2021 Video Contest Winner and Review
WINNER CHOSEN AND REVIEW BY SCUBAVERSE.COM’S EDITOR-AT-LARGE AND RESIDENT UNDERWATER VIDEOGRAPHY EXPERT JEFF GOODMAN
Winner: Aliens of the Sea by Oliver Knopken
Winning Video:
Interesting variety of films this month and it was enjoyable watching them all. There were a few that stood out but in the end it came down to one particular shot that won the day. It was the cuttlefish catching the scorpionfish. So this month’s winner is Aliens of the Sea by Oliver Knopken.
Sand of thousand eyes by Oliver Knopken
Great drone opening and I loved the door opening to the underwater scene. First time I have seen that done. Wonderful animals, all well shot. The music gave a good lively full of life feel to the film. Good choice.
Aliens of the Sea by Oliver Knopken
Once again, great opening drone sequence and the door opening effect has worked just as well as the first time I saw it and once again good music choice. Beautiful animals in your video. The pulsating cuttlefish was amazing. If you ever get to re-edit, try to slow that particular shot down by 50% or more and show both versions. Just as I was getting used to seeing the cuttlefish do its stuff, my eyes widened as it went for the fish. Brilliant shot.
Rosalie Moeller by Alexander Laue
Interesting tour of the wreck. Always a challenge when working deep. Although the images are all good, eighteen minutes is a long time for any film with no information and commentary and may only be of interest to those who have or are about to dive the wreck. Have a think about putting together some facts about the ship as well as the dive and try a narration. It’s good fun to do and you may be happily pleased with the result.
Kingdom of the Jacks by Bryson Justus
Good written intro and good title. Nice opening shots which gave a feeling of quiet anticipation for the dive to come. The shots of the Jacks were excellent. So good to see so many fish together which is getting rarer every year with over fishing. Such stunning animals to be with underwater. The ray was a nice addition. I thoroughly enjoyed watching.
Wreckdive on the MS Balena in Hurghada, Egypt by Scubabeat
Stunning wreck and really well filmed with great images. The viz looked a little poor but you coped well.
Fish life of Bunaken National Park by Pim van Schendel
Perfect written intro, thanks. Makes a big difference to the enjoyment of the film. Stunning images with excellent camera work and very good lighting. The close ups are superb. I liked the music too which gave a lovely relaxed feel to film.
The November competition is now open for entries. You can enter up to three videos by clicking here.
