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The Top Five Dive Locations to Photograph… Big Stuff!

Published

11 years ago

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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!

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Meet Insta360 Ace Pro 2: Redefining Action Cameras With Unrivaled 8K Image Quality & Smarter AI

Published

3 weeks ago

on

October 28, 2024

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insta360

Insta360 is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its Ace series, Insta360 Ace Pro 2. This groundbreaking wide-angle action camera delivers unparalleled image quality, smarter, easier capture powered by AI, upgraded audio, and an improved rugged design made for action at its most extreme.

Co-engineered with Leica, it delivers serious performance upgrades with the industry-first dual AI chip and state-of-the-art imaging courtesy of a new 1/1.3″ 8K sensor and Leica SUMMARIT lens with a 157º field of view. Creators can experience smoother videos with higher frame rates at 8K30fps and 4K60fps Active HDR, PureVideo for excellent low light performance, a bigger 2.5″ flip touchscreen and more.

The action camera utilizes Insta360’s advanced AI technology to offer a smarter experience from shooting to sharing. Innovative functions like the option to pause or cancel a recording, gesture and voice control, Auto Edit, and AI Highlights Assistant completely transform the experience for creators. With no more complex workflows, anyone can experience a simpler way to film and spend more time immersed in the moments they love.

insta360

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 significantly improves on its design, offering a more rugged, reliable action camera. Its waterproofing has increased to 39ft (12m), and it offers crystal-clear audio with an integrated Wind Guard and a removable Lens Guard to handle whatever you throw at it, providing full flexibility for action and sports enthusiasts.

“Our goal was to refine and enhance the groundbreaking features of the original Insta360 Ace Pro to deliver an unparalleled experience,” says JK Liu, founder of Insta360. “We are confident these upgrades establish a new industry standard. Not only do they bring significant advances in AI, they empower creators to capture what was always impossible with other action cameras, opening the door to unprecedented creative potential.”

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available to order today worldwide via Insta360.com, as well as trusted retailers and select authorized partners.

Unparalleled Image Quality, Day and Night

The Leica SUMMARIT lens immediately sets it apart from competitors with its state-of-the-art image quality. Combined with an upgraded 1/1.3″ 8K sensor offering 13.5 stops of dynamic range, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 delivers simply breathtaking visuals in situations other action cameras simply can’t handle.

Further contributing to its image quality and performance is the industry-leading dual-chip design. Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the first action camera with a dedicated Pro Imaging Chip that handles image processing and noise reduction, while a separate 5nm AI Chip handles further image processing and overall camera performance, providing a smooth, seamless user experience. The dual chip also enables more shooting modes and higher specifications, such as 8K30fps video, 4K60fps Active HDR (High Dynamic Range), and upgraded PureVideo. Even in fast-moving motion and high-intensity action, creators can enjoy smooth, sharp videos thanks to the higher frame rates or slow it all the way down with crisp 4K120fps slow motion.

A complex, custom-trained AI neural network underpins PureVideo, a specialized shooting mode that drastically reduces noise and enhances details in real time for cleaner, brighter images, even in extreme low light. Whether it’s twilight strolls or evening rides, creators can record what they never could before. For the daytime, upgraded 4K60fps Active HDR brings out all the details in intense highlights and shadows for more vibrant footage. Meanwhile, a wider 157° lens FOV captures more of the surroundings, perfect for vlogging or when the scenery really matters.

Exclusive Leica-engineered color profiles infuse footage with their signature aesthetic, adding a touch of elegance to every shot. Insta360’s devotion to color accuracy is seen elsewhere with Insta360 Ace Pro 2’s ability to retain rich and precise colors, even underwater.

Ready for Action Anytime, Anywhere

The upgraded design proves to be even more rugged, ready for when you ramp up the action. Waterproofing has increased to 39 feet (12 meters) or 197 feet (60 meters) with the Dive Case, and it handles temperatures as low as -4ºF (-20ºC) with ease, perfect for winter sports and extreme climates.

The new, removable Lens Guard provides greater all-around protection, meaning creators can feel confident to push the limits further and capture the impossible, knowing their action cam is up to the challenge.

An all-new Wind Guard keeps wind and noise at a minimum during those peak moments, ready to snap on and off as you need. With refreshed audio algorithms bringing professional-grade clarity to your content, you can immerse your viewers like never before. What’s more, the magnetic mounting system lets you seamlessly switch between accessories. Less time spent unscrewing and screwing your camera and mounts, more time in the moment.

Insta360’s leading FlowState Stabilization technology ensures videos remain incredibly smooth no matter what, while 360º Horizon Lock, now applied automatically in-camera, keeps everything perfectly level. Prioritizing performance and convenience, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 sports a bigger 1800mAh battery and a new Endurance Mode that offers a 50% longer runtime at 4K30fps than Insta360 Ace Pro. Fast charging powers the battery to 80% in 18 minutes or 100% in 47 minutes, so you can get back to the action quicker.

Insta360 has expanded its compatibility with several top third-party sports accessories, allowing action and sports enthusiasts to add a new level of detail. For data-rich videos, overlay real-time stats from third-party sports brands, including Garmin, Apple, COROS, and more. Alternatively, users can add stats from their phone directly in the Insta360 app without any extra gear or use the GPS Preview Remote for easy live preview, remote control, and real-time GPS data. For moto vloggers, pair Insta360 Ace Pro 2 with your motorcycle helmet headset from Sena, Cardo, and more for clear dual-track audio and hands-free control every ride.

Made for those who demand the highest standard of action capture, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers the perfect combination of durability and high-quality performance to capture life’s thrills with confidence.

insta360

Smarter, Easier Capture & Editing

Insta360 Ace Pro’s flip touchscreen proved an essential and convenient tool for creators and has been further upgraded to 2.5 inches. With a 70% increase in pixel density, a 6% increase in brightness and a 100% increase in flip durability, it allows for perfect framing and easier preview for vlogging, selfies, and difficult angles, all while remaining visible under bright sunlight. Instead of guessing if your shot looks perfect, you can shoot with confidence, knowing it is.

Internally, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers innovative solutions to problems that have hindered action enthusiasts for years:

  •   4K Clarity Zoom – Want a close-up but the image quality becomes too grainy? Zoom in and out 2x without losing quality.
  •   Pre-Recording – Never miss a moment with up to 120 seconds of footage saved before you even hit record.
  •   Gesture & Voice Control – Use quick hand signals or verbal commands to control the camera, such as start/stop recording or take a photo, ideal if it’s mounted out of reach.
  •   Pause/Resume Recording – Got time between shots? Hit pause and continue recording when you need to keep everything in one continuous file for easier file management and editing.
  •   Timecode – Seamlessly synchronizes multiple cameras for an efficient editing workflow.

Insta360’s revolutionary AI features demonstrate a commitment to making shooting and editing as accessible as possible. Anyone, regardless of their skill level, will be amazed at what they can create. For those who aren’t confident editing, AI Highlights Assistant automatically finds the best moments from a video and delivers the highlights for review, all in-camera. Creators can merge every thrilling moment into one incredible recap or choose the ones their favorites and delete any unwanted clips to save storage.

The Assistant also helps craft your next reel from your adventures and pushes it directly to your smartphone via the Insta360 app. Look back on all your Memories and share those unforgettable moments in seconds.

Acting as a full editing suite in your pocket, the Insta360 mobile app fully embraces the game-changing possibilities of AI with advanced Auto Editing, one-tap templates and creative Shot Lab effects. Instead of spending hours learning complex tools and editing workflows, AI does it all for you, bringing your clips to life with dynamic cuts and transitions. Creators can even achieve the infamous Invisible Selfie Stick effect with the AI Selfie Stick Eraser in the app for third-person views. Looking for a real twist? AI Warp uses preset or custom keywords to bring your wildest ideas to life.

Available Now

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available to purchase today worldwide via Insta360.com and select retailers. The Standard Bundle retails for US$399.99 and includes a Wind Guard, Battery, Standard Mount, Mic Cap, and USB-C Cable. The dual battery bundle includes the same accessories and two batteries for US$419.99.

www.insta360.com

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Introducing the Nauticam Super Macro Converter 3

Published

3 weeks ago

on

October 23, 2024

By

Nauticam SMC-3

The SMC-3

Nauticam is proud to introduce the SMC-3, the latest evolution in our line of water contact optics! Designed as a renewed version of the acclaimed SMC-1, the SMC-3 boasts a lightweight build—now only one-third the weight of its predecessor—without compromising on optical performance.

SMC-3 Specifications

Dimensions OD 70mm x H 32mm 
Weight in Air 307g
Weight in Water 215g
Max Magnification (*1) 2.4x (lens dependent)
Working Distance (*1) 51-103mm
Lens Construction 3 elements in 2 groups
Lens Coatings Anti-reflection Coating
Mount Thread Diameter M67
Depth Rating

100mm

Nauticam SMC-3

Tested with Nikon AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED

Key Features

  • Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighing in at just one-third of the SMC-1, the SMC-3 offers unparalleled portability for on-the-go use.
  • Superior Optical Performance: Enjoy the same exceptional clarity and precision you’ve come to expect from the SMC series.
  • Increased Working Distance: The redesigned lens allows for a greater working distance, meaning it’s easier to use and provides enhanced versatility.
  • Premium Materials: Crafted with advanced materials to enhance durability while minimizing weight.
  • Cost-Effective: Slightly more affordable than the discontinued SMC-1, the SMC-3 delivers exceptional value.

Uncompromised Optical Quality

The Super Macro Converter 3 is constructed from lenses that are precision crafted of specially formulated low dispersion optical grade glass, ground to the most demanding standards. These exceptional measures, enhanced by broadband anti-refective coatings effectively reduce common optical issues such as chromatic aberrations, coma, spherical aberration, and field deformation associated with underwater macro photography using traditional magnifying lenses. These optics are assembled in a rugged hard anodized aluminum housing, and nitrogen purged during assembly to eliminate fogging.

Stunning Magnification

When combined with a full frame camera and a 100mm or 105mm macro lens, the device converts the optical system to provide a maximum of 2.4X magnification factor. In other words, a subject area of 15.6mm X 10.4mm will fill the whole frame of a 36mm X 24mm sensor.

Improved Sharpness and Contrast

As the Super Macro Converter 3 is optimized explicitly for using together with a macro lens underwater, images captured exhibit exceptional sharpness compared with conventional magnification lenses. Thanks to the broadband multi-layer anti-reflection coating on each surface of the lenses, images also exhibit higher contrast.

Superb Light Transmission

All the lens elements installed inside the SMC are optically optimized to appropriate diameters so as to provide maximum light transmission. The SMC doesn’t suffer from vignette issues under even the most extreme conditions. The broad band multi-layer anti-reflection coating on all surfaces also greatly improves light transmission.

Optimized for Autofocus

By utilizing a specially developed algorithm in the optimization process, the SMC renders superior image quality over the full focusing range of the camera lens (which becomes ~50 to ~100 mm in front of the SMC). Also benefitting from the high brightness and contrast of the image, the autofocus system of the camera usually works acceptably well within this range.

Nauticam SMC-3

Ample Working Distance

Even at the maximum 2.3X magnification, there is still more than 50mm of working distance between the front element and the subject with 100/105mm macro lenses. This working distance is crucial when capturing behavior with skittish subjects.

Resolution

High resolution was a primary design goal of the SMC project. This has been achieved using computer aided optimization and high grade optical glasses with unique refractive and dispersion properties. Images taken with this new system exhibit very high resolution and quality. Results have exceeded expectations, and these images rival the quality of the macro lens in air.

Smooth Bokeh

The Converter retains the optical properties of the macro lens for the whole system underwater, resulting in a blurred (out of focus) background that has a pleasing smoothness and creamy look, without the normal purple and green fringing.

Avoiding Diffraction

Due to the overall superior optical performance of the SMC-3 it is possible to shoot larger apertures with excellent image quality. This avoids reaching the diffraction limit of high resolution sensors, and allows selective focus effects with narrow depth of field in super macro images.

For more information about the Nauticam Super Macro Converter 3, which ships in November, click here.

www.nauticam.com

 

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