Dive Into Your Imagination

People relate to people, we like to see one another in photographs. Photographing people on land can be challenging, when you try and do the same underwater, you need to deal with a plethora of circumstances that many people do not take into consideration. By breaking it down, we give you tips and tricks that you can modify to meet your needs!

The golden rule applying to every aspect of diving (and life) is communication. Photographer and model must be able to understand one another underwater by using hand signals and eye contact. You must practice this before you get into the water with all of your equipment on! You will create unnecessary anxiety and confusion underwater if you do not communicate on land! Before picking up a camera or shooting your model, you want to dive with one another and asess your diving skills. Both the photographer and the model must be able to achieve neutral buoyancy to have success shooting images underwater.

Once you are both comfortable with communications and neutral buoyancy, the next step is to understand what each of you are going through. What is the temperature of the water? Clarity? Current? You need to assess your conditions before you get into the water and set up a dive plan. Many times the model has to wait for long periods of time in one place, and often your buddy can get bored just hovering. As a photographer, you want to be sensitive to this. It is a good idea at some point to let your model look through the camera lens so they can see what you see. Whenever I work with a model that can anticipate my needs, it sure does make communication easier. In addition, you want to discuss your breathing patterns. Do you want bubbles in your shot? How does your model need to breathe?

Tools for your Save A Model dive kit:

Always bring a new clear mask. The clear mask opens a models face.

Waterproof mascara

Check out models equipment for matching colors, bring extra lanyards and retractors so there is no dangling equipment. Your model needs to be a perfect example of a scuba diver or snorkeler should look like.

A white slate that you can write on underwater.

Bottle of conditioner for models hair.

Powerful dive light (video and LED lights work really well) for model to hold.

After the dive, you want to make sure that you debrief one another to learn what worked and what didn't work. Also, when it comes time for you to download your images, invite your model to sit with you and learn what works and doesn't. It is imperative that they edit the images so they learn too.

Underwater Photography rewards us on many levels. No matter if you have a point and shoot camera or an SLR system, the principals always remain the same.

Join our FORUM or CONTACT us today with any questions!

The Camera Coach® The Camera Coach®, Your Guide to Creating Underwater Video demonstrates and teaches you the necessary techniques needed to produce great video above and below the surface. You will learn shooting, lighting and editing techniques. This DVD teaches you sh

GRATITUDE Kelp frond, California

INSPIRATION COLLECTION get inspired!