Bring the underwater world home in pictures
The underwater photography course is for divers who want to bring back what they have seen underwater. Water absorbs light and colour, so taking photos underwater is different from taking them on land. In this course you learn to handle a camera underwater, to understand light, colour and composition, and to avoid the most common beginner mistakes.
What you learn
- How water absorbs light and how to set white balance so colours look natural
- Controlling exposure: ISO, shutter speed and aperture in different light and with moving subjects
- Choosing a lens: macro or wide angle
- Composition: perspective, lines, contrast, foreground and background
- Using natural light, strobes and underwater lights, and controlling backscatter
- Editing photos: RAW files, colour, contrast and sharpness
How the course runs
Theory
The principles of underwater photography, camera settings, light sources and editing. You also cover diving safely while taking photos, so that the picture never comes before safety.
Practice in the pool and open water
You learn to use a camera in an underwater housing and to keep a stable position and buoyancy so your shots are sharp. You photograph fish, your buddies and the surroundings, try natural and artificial light, and look for interesting angles.
Reviewing your photos
After the dives the instructor goes through your photos with you, discusses the technical choices and suggests what you could do differently.
What comes next
The best photos come when a diver is fully in control of their buoyancy, so many photographers also take the buoyancy course. You can use what you learn on your own trips as well as in photo projects or competitions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own camera?
A compact or action camera in an underwater housing works for the course. It is best to learn with the camera you will use later, so you get to know its settings faster. Please arrange the camera with us before the course.
Is the course suitable for beginner photographers?
Yes. The course starts with the basics: light, exposure and composition. You only need an Open Water Diver certificate and to feel comfortable underwater.
How long does the course take?
Usually two days: theory, pool practice and two open-water dives.
Which certificate will I get?
An international PADI Digital Underwater Photographer or SDI Underwater Photographer Diver certificate.