Photo / Video News & Reviews
Scubaverse Underwater Photographer Interview: Steve Jones
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 Steve Jones.
My professional diving career began in the early 1990’s when, immediately after university, I decided to take one year out to travel and work as a diving instructor. Seven years later, having lived and dived in Egypt, Malta, the Maldives and the Caribbean, I returned to live in the UK, somewhat reluctantly. By that time my imagery and articles were starting to appear in diving magazines, and since have gone on to be published in over 30 countries. Through photojournalism I’m very lucky to have been given the opportunity to visit places that I once only dreamed of and I’ve had to develop into an all-rounder as a photographer, equally happy writing about maritime history and photographing wrecks as I am when shooting equatorial seascapes awash with colour, or critters crawling through volcanic mud. This has led to quite a diverse portfolio and combined with my more specialist deep wreck photography led to me becoming a Blancpain Edition Fifty Fathoms photographer in 2015, one of four photographers invited annually to contribute to the fine art books produced by this high-end watchmaker. My website is at www.millionfish.com.
N/C: How did your underwater photography start?
SJ: I’ve had a fascination with both the natural world and photography since I was a child. I then learned to dive at the age of 14 but I couldn’t afford an underwater camera until I was working in the Red Sea as a diving Instructor back in 1992. I bought a second hand Nikonos III, and soon found myself assisting visiting professional photographers from whom I learned an enormous amount. It was in 1996 whilst working as an instructor/guide in the Maldives that I got my first break when German magazine Unterwasser published my images. I still regularly contribute to this excellent publication, over 20 years later
N/C: What is your favourite u/w camera equipment (past & present) & why?
SJ: I’ve used SEACAM housings since 1995 and they have never let me down. My favourite piece of kit is a SEACAM converted Nikon RS-UW 13mm fisheye lens. This was one of the original lenses designed for use on the Nikonos RS SLR, and is optimised for underwater use. SEACAM have adapted it for use on modern housed cameras. Its compactness and superb optical quality is particularly useful when technical diving on deep wrecks, where I often shoot at wide apertures due to low light conditions.
N/C: What would be your advice to anyone new to underwater photography?
SJ:
- Master your diving skills: have buoyancy control that is second to none.
- Build your technical knowledge, particularly your understanding of lighting and the influence of Aperture, Shutter Speed and ISO settings on underwater images, when used with/without strobes. Learn how to balance natural and strobe light as this is very important. Learn about editing and post processing with tools such as Lightroom.
- Study: Read books cover to cover, such as Martin Edge’s “The Underwater Photographer” and keep the kindle versions on hand to refer to whilst you’re on a trip.
- Observe: Immerse yourself in the photography of others and try and understand how the shot was taken and why it works (or not!)
- Practice constantly even on mundane subjects and also above water at every opportunity.
- Be creative and be different. Once you have mastered the basics, allow your own creative style to develop and flourish through your imagery to make it unique. Study composition techniques – there are many articles and books available written by topside and underwater photographers.
- Respect the environment and the oceans’ inhabitants, no matter how small they may be. Photography is a means to communicate the beauty and value of our marine world to those not fortunate enough to see it and as ambassadors for the ocean, our own code of conduct needs to be exemplary.
A Coconut Octopus (Amphioctopus marginatus), a species that gathers coconut and mollusc shells for shelter, Lembeh Strait, Sulawesi, Indonesia
N/C: What, or who, has been your single biggest inspiration for your underwater photography?
SJ: My biggest inspiration is my fascination with the marine world and the exploration of it. I try and create images that take the viewers imagination to the place where I took the image, to generate some of the excitement that I felt when I was there. As for photographers who’ve inspired me, David Doubilet had been my inspiration from the start, and I also admire the work of many other photographers: The ones pushing creative boundaries to capture familiar subjects in new ways and the ones pushing physical boundaries, operating in environments where previously un-photographed subjects are found. There are too many to mention here.
The armoured barbette that housed one of the 5 main gun turrets of HMS Audacious, the first
British battleship to be sunk in WW1
N/C: What image are you most proud of and why?
SJ: It’s actually an image set rather than one image, and that would be of the deep wrecks lying off Malin Head in Ireland. I’d been practicing my techniques for shooting with natural light in deep water for several years, as I like to show the wrecks in their true scale. These wrecks mainly lie between 60 and 70 metres and we only had one dive on each of the most iconic ones. With great team work from my regular dive partner Steve Henshall, we got a set that I was immensely proud of, and it directly led to me being selected as one of the Blancpain Edition Fifty Fathoms photographers.
N/C: Where is your favourite dive location, and is it for the photography?
SJ: I’ve just returned from Cocos and it blew my mind. The diving is simply the best I’ve ever done and I want to go back. For sheer diversity, I love Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. My bucket list is still quite long though…..
Leopard seal, mouthing its own reflection in the camera port (Hydrurga leptonyx), Astrolabe Island, Antarctica
N/C: What are you views on marine life manipulation, moving subjects?
SJ: Moving and harassing animals sets a disturbing precedent and I firmly believe it goes against the code of conduct that nature photographers should abide by: The animal’s welfare must always come first. However, we need to also keep things in perspective and hold an awareness of all things that impact the marine environment: unsustainable fishing and plastic waste being two of the major ones. At the end of the day it’s all about the ethics you abide by as a marine photographer.
N/C: What do you look for when you are making your images?
SJ: Most of my imagery is captured when on direct assignments for magazines. So first I have to get the “safety” shots in the bag – this is the basic set of publishable quality images that will allow a story to be illustrated and I don’t relax until I have a reasonably good set. Once that objective is met, I let my creativity off the leash and take higher risk shots using less conventional, often experimental techniques and equipment. Overall, I try and capture images that support the subject matter of my story as it makes my writing task much easier if my images are already speaking the words.
A diver has a very close encounter with a giant oceanic manta ray (Manta birostris), Dampier Strait, Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia
N/C: What motivates you to take u/w photos?
SJ: It’s a creative outlet, a representation of my fascination with wildlife and exploration of the marine world. With wrecks, it is also capturing history: A unique moment in time. At some point in the future, our images will be all that remains of many of the wrecks we now dive. I sincerely hope that the same will not apply to the wonderful marine life we encounter, but it will unless we change our short-term exploitation of this planets limited resources and start thinking more in terms of leaving a home that’s fit for our children to inhabit.
N/C: If you could photograph any one thing/place what or where would that be?
SJ: That would be the Great Whales, a lifelong dream as yet unfulfilled! (They are on my bucket list!)
The wreck of the Um El Faroud, Malta.
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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