Photo / Video News & Reviews
River Diving
If you like diving and underwater photography as much as I do and you live 3. 5 hours inland from a good dive site, you might find yourself looking to a new venue to enjoy. I will openly admit I had a mission as I wanted pictures of freshwater fish, especially salmon. Thus began my river diving adventures this summer.
I am inspired by the work of Martin Edge and Eiko Jones and what they do with light underwater (the “God Beams” as the topside photographers say) and was thinking about some ways to do some new things I had in mind with long exposure and ambient light. As a lot of river diving here in Oregon can be relatively shallow in the rivers (relatively shallow being less than 25 feet). I was really wanting to work with ambient lighting in clear waters and be on eye level with the royalty of the fish world – salmon and steelhead trout.
The next logical thing to do was put together an investigatory dive. Equipment was my first consideration starting with photographic gear. I packed my Olympus OMD-E1 in a Nauticam housing with a Panasonic Lumix 8mm fisheye lens and a 4.33 dome port and then started to think about dive gear. I was diving the McKenzie River in Oregon which has gin clear visibility; however, it is also a frigid 49 degrees F, so I packed my Bare crushed neoprene drysuit and whites fusion thermals. I packed my warm water fins as they are shorter and lighter than my Apollo biofins, and I selected two aluminum 80 tanks with 3000 psi a piece as my steel 100 tanks weigh 40 pounds and I didn’t know what access would be like or how long I would be walking with gear on. My lightweight warmwater backplate and regulator was added to the gear pile with a 12 pound weight belt plus 4 extra pounds – surely that would be plenty. It was not, which I discovered later.
River diving entails a few different things that you may or may not be used to. Number one is current, and in some cases, a LOT of current. You may be wearing 20-25 pounds in a wetsuit/drysuit in 5 feet of water so you can stay down. Freshwater is deceiving as you do need less weight than salt, but you have to overweight to account for current. I also have had to anchor myself along the bottom in interesting ways with a robust stainless steel reef stick that I own and by shooting with one hand and hanging on to logs, rocks, etc. with my other hand.
Riffle, Middle Fork Willamette River, Oregon.
Fish are often found under tree roots so this can be very good shooting. I also did some shooting where I lay in the middle of a big riffle (stretch of fast moving water) and just shot water flowing over me while I anchored in with my stainless steel reef stick.My first dive I did not think about extra weight and I was soon sailing along like a balloon underwater getting blown through culverts and into large woody debris piles until I started to anchor myself by grabbing onto stuff and by putting rocks in my pockets for extra weight. Not getting my camera knocked out of my hands or rubbing the dome port glass on rocks was also a challenge. I also used my feet to push against logs so I could face into the current and shoot.
Number two is temperature. Some rivers you can go with little or no exposure suit, however I wouldn’t recommend that due to rocks, logs, etc scraping you up. My home rivers in the summer range from 65 to 48 degrees F. I found that for me I like the freedom of a wetsuit and for temperatures down to 55 degrees I was good in a 5mm wetsuit. Below 55 I could last about 20 minutes and then my teeth were chattering. At that point I was using my crushed neoprene drysuit with thermals.
I can go gloveless to 50 degrees but below that I would wear 5mm gloves. I usually always wear a hood to keep my hair out of my way. I’m toasty with this set up but temperature is a personal thing.
I recently hiked into a mountain waterfall and skin dove with my 5mm wetsuit to try and get some good over and under shots. The water was 47 degrees F which was pretty chilly but 20 minutes of being chilly was worth it for the shots I got there.
What lies beneath. Butte Falls, Oregon.
Number three is access and the diving style. Access to some rivers is back up to the side and jump in while with others you have to walk along the riverbank to get to a place you can safely access. Some rivers you have to climb down the sides and these sides can be steep and/or rocky and doing this with gear on can be a strenuous experience. Not falling down the side of a river on top of your camera gear and rolling into blackberry bushes on the way down is really the goal. Being somewhat nimble and strong is a plus for these rivers. River diving is not about calmly swimming along with perfect buoyancy most of the time. Many times you are crawling in between pools if water is low and sometimes you have to get out and walk to the next pool. Sometimes you can get into deep pools and these are really nice places to shoot when fish are holding there. These you can swim around, although I like to employ stealth technique and sit or lie calmly on the bottom until the fish are done being freaked out. I then let them get back to their regular business so I can take shots.
A curious bluegill in the Middle Fork Willamette River, Oregon.
Some observations on fish behavior… I found that juvenile fish are much more curious than adults. Some adult fish can be very skittish, and some can be very bold and rush right up to you.
Freshwater sculpin are very fun to photograph and they are full of attitude as their marine cousins and they will fearlessly swim right up to you and sit right in front of your dome port. They are ferocious predators and will attack anything they think could fit in their mouth. Warmwater fish such as bass or bluegill are the most curious of the fish. They will literally photobomb every picture you take and they will nibble on your hands, mask, face, etc.
Sculpin watching trout. Cedar Creek, Oregon.
Male smallmouth bass are quite beautiful when they are mating or guarding their nests and can make striking pictures. Similar behavior is exhibited by native minnows such as dace, shiners, chub, and suckers.
I am currently working on a series of shoots with fall Chinook salmon that have returned from the ocean after 4-5 years of being away from their natal streams. How these fish find their way back to the very place they emerged from the gravel is an amazing question to me. Even near death these fish command respect as they have returned to fulfill a mission that started over 5,000 years ago. I wax poetic here as I am a fisheries biologist by trade.
I do NOT dive alone EVER in rivers. There are too many variables to not have a buddy or shore support. Yes, you have a BCD and regulator, however if you get stuck in a large woody debris pile or hung up on the bottom for some reason there could be a very bad outcome. Having another pair of eyes on you is a good thing. If you bring along a creative “dry” photographer they can take good topside pictures. I have not needed to tether up due to high river current to date but having someone watching your tether at all times is a smart thing to plan for. I usually do some scouting in advance for possible sites so I know what to bring.
I might add that I am eternally grateful to my cohorts in the fishery business who have clued me in to good sites and times to go and in some cases even driven me around and put me in on some great fish action. Treat these people well and buy them beer as they can be key to some beautiful pictures.
Male spring Chinook salmon, North Santiam River, Oregon.
My last plug is for quiet respect of fish, especially if you are somewhere where they are spawning. This is not a good time to be upsetting fish and driving them away from their spawning beds. Better to wait until after the spawning or before to get pictures. There is a fine line between harassment and annoyance so please understand that line and respect it.
I love diving our beautiful Pacific Northwest seas but I also feel that river diving adds a fun and new slant of the beauty of the underwater world and you definitely get to see things you do not see in the ocean environment… plus you don’t have to soak your gear so much after you dive freshwater!
You can see more of Laura’s underwater photography 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.”
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.
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