News
Scubaverse Underwater Photographer Interview: Pete Bullen
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 interview is with Pete Bullen.
I took my first photograph on a little plastic Ilford copy of a box brownie. I’d been given it for Christmas and was instantly hooked. On Boxing Day it snowed heavily and I was struck by how beautiful the fields, trees etc. looked covered in pristine snow and wanted to capture it. I cocked it up and every shot was vastly overexposed but I still remember the feelings; wanting to capture that moment of beauty, the agony of waiting for the exposed film to come back and the let-down of the poor exposure. But the feeling of wanting to capture beauty has never left me and 50 years later I still take photographs for the same fundamental reasons.
Nowadays I share my love of photography both on land and underwater by offering private guiding and coaching to beginners and improvers here on Gozo, Malta, where I live. I have offices in two dive centres on the island and my guests get all the benefits of a well-run dive centre with the added benefits of private guiding at photographer’s pace to the best sites at the best times. You can find out more about my work at www.oceanfoto.co.uk, www.facebook.com/pete.bullen1, on Instagram: @Oceanfoto and TripAdvisor: www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g190317-d12498897-Reviews-Oceanfoto-Victoria_Island_of_Gozo.html
N/C: How did your underwater photography start?
PB: Being a keen land photographer it was natural for me to extend that interest below the waves very (too) quickly after I learned to dive. I started with a Sea & Sea MX5, then borrowed a Fuji F30, moved on to a Canon G9 and finally moved to M4/3 mirrorless cameras. Nowadays I shoot Olympus EM5, EM5Mk2, EPL5 plus a variety of lenses, strobes, snoots etc.
N/C: What is your favourite u/w camera equipment (past & present) & why?
PB: I love my EM5, the weight and size together with its excellent performance make it my go to camera although if I’m planning a super small macro shoot I may well take my EPL5 as its smaller format can help me get closer to the little stuff.
N/C: What would be your advice to anyone new to underwater photography?
PB: To get great shots that you can repeat you need all the skills; you have to have excellent buoyancy control, you have to understand both how your camera works and what its limitations are. Learn patience and take full control! I almost never shoot in any mode other than manual and that includes manual control of the strobe(s).
N/C: What, or who, has been your single biggest inspiration for your underwater photography?
PB: Alex Mustard is my hero, full stop, he’s a wonderful photographer, a fantastic eye and he understands the animals and environment he works with/in.
N/C: What image are you most proud of and why?
PB: I took a commissioned shot for one of our local dive centres that wanted to advertise their offering of both Freediving and Scuba. We shot it under the Azure window, I nailed it with only 5 exposures and we also rescued an idiot who had thought jumping off the Azure window was a good idea. He broke his back in three places and we probably saved his life. I love the shot plus the memories around it.
N/C: Where is your favourite dive location, and is it for the photography?
PB: I’ve dived in far too many places around the world to really have a favourite but besides Gozo, which I obviously love, I have had some great holidays at Marsa Shagra. I love the freedom to go back to the same spot and the same fish time and time again. Getting to know your subjects and planning around sunlight and angles thereof is a great way to work.
N/C: What are you views on marine life manipulation, moving subjects?
PB: Don’t do it! If you have to move a subject to get the shot then move on and find a shot that is natural. I’ll wait 15 minutes for a seahorse to lift its head if I have to.
N/C: What do you look for when you are making your images?
PB: I think that photographs should fall into one of three categories, they should either tell a story, have an artistic “wow” factor or be good for species ID, I always ask myself why I am taking the shot and if the framing/subject etc. doesn’t meet one of those categories it’s not worth taking.
N/C: What motivates you to take u/w photos?
PB: It’s a fantastic world down there, we owe it to the rest of the world to show how beautiful and delicate it is. I try to be an ambassador for a world that can’t speak for itself.
N/C: If you could photograph any one thing/place what or where would that be?
PB: I have been trying for 6 years to photograph one of our fairly rare Mola Mola, the only one I’ve ever seen was in Swanage bay, swimming round the Fleur, I was a baby diver with less than 20 dives to my name and no camera. One day I’ll get a good series of shots!
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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