Photo / Video News & Reviews
The Top Five Dive Locations to Photograph… Big Stuff!
In this series we’ll be looking at the world of underwater photography. There are many articles written both on-line and in magazines about UW photo technique and equipment but not so many about where to go to get the best shots and that is obviously very important. A well-thought- of underwater photographer, a friend called Simon Rogerson, was once asked what his most important bit of kit was. His response? “My flight ticket”.
Says it all really.
Just as you would travel to different locations on land to photograph different subjects so the same applies underwater. Different types and species of marine plants and animals obviously inhabit different parts of the world, so if you’re serious about what you want to shoot you need to know where to go. Having said that a very large number of recreational or holiday divers are now taking cameras underwater with them. Long gone are the days when the serious underwater photographer required thousands of pounds worth of elaborate kit, the size of which meant only the most ardent were prepared to put up with the years of crippling back ache sure to follow just from lugging it around. Nowadays with the advances in imaging technology even a modest compact (with the right criteria) will produce excellent images, and underwater photography is thankfully much more accessible today than it ever has been. The aim here is to point you in the right direction to find those great underwater photo opportunities without waffling on too much about the complexities of equipment and technique – just enough to ensure some great images from our selected locations.
We’re going to start with a subject that will appeal to divers and non-divers alike: the big beasties – Sharks, Manta Rays and those larger animals that we all find fascinating and maybe even a little bit scary.
Underwater photography is surprisingly different from land based photography as I found out the hard way when I first ventured underwater with a camera. Certain cameras work better than others and accessories, like wide angle lenses, are essential to get the best shots.
The biggest problem with shooting underwater is, quite simply, the water itself. It acts like a huge murky filter even if you’re somewhere tropical with beautiful clear water. Water so efficiently absorbs light that even after only a few metres your subject will become poorly defined and washed out. This is why wide angle and fish eye lenses are so frequently used underwater; and it’s nothing to do with taking large sweeping panoramas, it’s all about reducing the distance between your subject and the camera – quite simply the less water you shoot through the better the picture will be. Unfortunately for taking pictures of a lot of these bigger creatures a W/A or fisheye lens ordinarily doesn’t help much as most of them will be heading in the opposite direction the moment you try and approach. That is why the locations mentioned here are renowned for not only the quantity of these larger marine fauna but also the proximity at which you can approach them, or more correctly, they approach you.
Anyway enough of my waffle; let’s get on with it.
The Brothers, Southern Red Sea
Little and Big Brother Islands are a pair of islands in the Southern Red Sea. Both islands are rich in marine life and the reefs are abound with small Anthias and Glassfish. Impressive hard and soft coral formations make for spectacular diving. Little Brother attracts many smaller reef sharks and the occasional Hammerhead but the larger Big Brother Island really is the place to see the larger pelagic species. On the South Eastern point of the island in spring and autumn you are likely to encounter many reef sharks and Hammerheads. You can also see Oceanic White Tips, which are large ocean-going sharks and can be quite intimidating. Seldom-seen Thresher sharks are also reported around this point and many divers – myself included – never see one of these elusive creatures. There’s always the chance though! More experienced divers often preserve their air to spend time at the end of a dive here as the sharks congregate under the dive boats and will come in very close indeed, offering great photo opportunities.
Aliwal Shoal, South Africa
Just south of Durban lies the town of Umkomaas where the Mkhomazi River meets the Ocean, and just offshore is the world famous dive site at Aliwal Shoal. Named after a ship that ran aground there in 1849, it is renowned for its shark diving – and many species can be found in abundance there. Most popular in this area are the local Ragged-Tooth Sharks, affectionately known as “Raggies”. Despite their ferocious appearances these sharks are normally very docile. Raggies are normally deep water creatures but return to Aliwal throughout June/July whilst the females prepare to give birth and can be very approachable in the water. Also found here is the elegant-looking Dusky Shark; with its long streamlined body these fish can exceed 4 meters in length. Oceanic Black Tip and Tiger sharks are also regular visitors here. If your repertoire extends beyond just sharks there are large Marble and Sting Rays cruising around to tickle your fancy.
The Seychelles
High on the bucket list for many aspiring underwater photographers is the opportunity to get some action pics of the largest fish in the world: the whale shark. Despite being a member of the shark family, this 12-metre monster is a gentle giant and is popular not just for its size but also for its docile yet curious nature, its tendency to swim and feed at shallow depths and, most of all, its affinity for only the warmest and clearest of tropical waters. So put that wet suit away and dig out your sunnies!
The Seychelles are a group of tiny islands glistening in the middle of the Indian Ocean off the east coast of equatorial Africa. Pristine white sun-kissed beaches, misty forested peaks, palm trees and crystal clear seas teeming with marine life make this a tropical haven and a great place to get in the water with whale sharks – not to mention the turtles, mantas and dolphins that can be regularly seen. With water temperatures of up to 30oC there is no excuse not to practise your underwater skills! Several friendly dive companies can take you to the best sites around for the greatest photo opportunities. During the whale shark season (usually August to the beginning of November) the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles (MCSS) run dedicated whale shark trips where the boat is guided to the sharks with the assistance of a “lookout” microlight overhead. What’s more, if you can get good pictures of the whale sharks you can help with research into the lives of these fabulous creatures by submitting ID pictures to MCSS of the spot pattern above the fins – a whale shark’s ‘fingerprints’ if you like. Of course, after a day in the water it’s time to head to shore to regale your tales over a cocktail or two…
Galapagos, Eastern Tropical Pacific
Everybody has heard of the Galapagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin’s studies whilst on board the exploration vessel Beagle back in the early 1830’s. 500 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the islands sit right on the equator, truly a tropical paradise.
Above and below the water Galapagos is a photographer’s dream location. Well environmentally protected, Galapagos is home to many unique species which thrive on these lush islands. In the water you can expect to see a diverse selection of marine wildlife; pods of dolphin, hammerheads, sea lions, manta rays, whale shark, and not forgetting the marine Iguanas that populate the islands. These prehistoric lizards can grow up to 1.5 metres in length and weigh in excess of 10 kilos and whilst most often seen sunning themselves on rocks along the coast, once in the water they are a graceful, quite elegant swimmer. Also found here are the diminutive Galapagos Penguin which is one of the smallest Penguins in the world and only grows to around half a metre in height. It is the only penguin found north of the equator. These are going to be hard to photo as they zip around in the water like miniature torpedoes. The post dive chat is always going to be lively here! Of course there is a down side to this beautiful destination and that is the cost! It is without doubt one of the most expensive places on the planet to visit.
Lundy Island, UK
If your budget perhaps won’t stretch to a trip across the world, or you perhaps prefer a traditional British sea-side holiday, then don’t despair. The UK coastline offers a range of diving that is comparable (albeit considerably colder!) to a lot of the more exotic locations and boasts some of the most impressive sea beasties around.
Lundy lies off the coast of North Devon, in the Bristol Channel, so requires a bit of a boat journey in order to reach – a journey which you may be joined on by travelling porpoises and dolphins. The main attraction for divers here is the opportunity for some amazing close contact with the local seals which playfully dart around and between divers, curious and bright-eyed, offering themselves very considerately as excellent photographic subjects and will swim right up to a camera lens in order to investigate. If you can escape the mischievous antics of the seals there is plenty more to see including sea fans and soft corals, lobsters and – if you are really lucky – perhaps even a basking shark taking lunch in the area, another gentle plankton-feeding giant.
Topside photo opportunities are aplenty to keep you satisfied when the diving is done, especially if you wander down towards the seabird colonies. Lundi is believed to originate from an old Nordic word for “puffin” and there are plenty of these quirky characters around along with a variety of other coastal breeding species. There is a lot of history and heritage behind the island, much of which is in evidence. Well worth a long weekend away!
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.
-
News2 months agoIconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News3 months agoBook Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News3 months agoDYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News3 months agoExploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News3 months agoTry BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation3 months agoBook Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
Blogs2 months agoDive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive
-
News3 months ago2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced