The Maldives, an archipelago of over 1,000 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, is a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. While the Maldives is a dream destination for sun-seekers and divers alike, it holds a special allure for underwater photographers. With its breathtaking coral reefs, diverse marine species, and unique underwater landscapes, the Maldives offers a captivating canvas for photographers to explore and capture the magic of the deep. In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of underwater photography in the Maldives and discover why it’s a paradise for photographers.

Scorpionfish by Tim Yeo

1. The Magical Coral Reefs

The Maldives is home to some of the most exquisite coral reefs on the planet. These intricate underwater ecosystems provide endless opportunities for photographers to capture vibrant colors and textures of corals. From branching corals that resemble delicate works of art to massive coral formations that shelter various fish species, the coral gardens of the Maldives are a sight to behold.

Underwater photographers can use multiple techniques to showcase the beauty of coral reefs. Close-up shots of individual corals highlight their intricate patterns and vibrant hues, while wide-angle shots capture the grandeur of entire reef systems. When the sunlight filters through the water, it creates stunning effects, casting enchanting shadows and illuminating the underwater world with an ethereal glow.

2. Marine Life Extravaganza

One of the primary draws for underwater photographers in the Maldives is the rich diversity of marine life. The warm, nutrient-rich waters attract an abundance of sea creatures, from tiny, colorful reef fish to larger pelagic species. Snorkelers and divers can encounter graceful manta rays, majestic whale sharks, and playful dolphins, among many others.

Schooling Fish in the Maldives

Capturing the essence of marine life requires patience, skill, and the right equipment. Macro photography allows photographers to get up close and personal with tiny critters like nudibranchs and shrimp, revealing intricate details unseen by the naked eye. On the other hand, wide-angle photography is ideal for showcasing the sheer size and grace of large creatures like sea turtles or sharks. Regardless of your subject, the Maldives offers an array of opportunities to capture the wonders of the underwater world.

3. Unique Underwater Landscapes

The Maldives is not just about coral reefs and marine life; it also boasts unique underwater landscapes. One such feature is the vibrant and mysterious underwater caves and caverns. These natural formations provide dramatic backdrops and intriguing compositions for underwater photographers.

Additionally, submerged shipwrecks offer a glimpse into history and create eerie yet captivating scenes that photographers can explore. The juxtaposition of marine life taking residence in and around these wrecks creates stunning visual narratives.

4. Tips for Underwater Photography in the Maldives

To make the most of your underwater photography adventure in the Maldives, consider the following tips:

• Invest in Good Gear: High-quality underwater cameras and housings are essential for capturing sharp, vibrant images. Be sure to also invest in proper lighting equipment, as the underwater environment can be challenging without adequate illumination.
• Understand Your Environment: Familiarize yourself with the dive sites and underwater conditions of the Maldives. Different locations may offer varying visibility, currents, and marine life encounters. Knowing what to expect will help you plan your shots.
• Practice Buoyancy Control: Excellent buoyancy control is crucial for getting close to marine life without disturbing it or damaging the fragile coral reefs. Mastering your buoyancy will enable you to position yourself for the perfect shot.
• Patience is Key: Underwater photography often requires waiting for the right moment. Be patient and observant, and don’t rush your shots. Wildlife encounters can be unpredictable, so be prepared to seize opportunities as they arise.

Underwater photography in the Maldives is an immersive experience that allows photographers to capture the hidden beauty of the ocean. Whether you’re a seasoned underwater photographer or a novice with a passion for marine life, the Maldives offers opportunities to hone your skills and create stunning images that showcase the mesmerizing underwater world. So, grab your camera, don your snorkel or scuba gear, and get ready to capture the magic of the Maldives beneath the waves. Your underwater adventure awaits!

The post Capturing the Hidden Beauty: Underwater Photography in the Maldives first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

Exploring the enchanting world beneath the waves is a captivating experience, and for many, capturing its beauty through underwater photography is an artistic pursuit like no other. Whether you are a seasoned underwater photographer or a budding enthusiast, participating in a Bluewater Travel Underwater Photography Workshop can take your skills to new depths, and maybe even win some prizes. These workshops are designed to offer a unique and enriching experience for photographers of all levels. Let’s dive into five compelling reasons why underwater photographers should consider joining a Bluewater Travel workshop:

1. Expert Guidance from Accomplished Mentors

Bluewater Travel gathers some of the most accomplished and talented underwater photographers as mentors for their workshops. These professionals have years of experience and an in-depth understanding of the marine world and photography techniques. As a workshop participant, you’ll have direct access to their wealth of knowledge, receiving personalized feedback and guidance to enhance your skills. Their insights can significantly accelerate your learning curve, helping you master the art of capturing mesmerizing underwater images.

2. Access to Pristine Dive Destinations

One of the highlights of a Bluewater Travel Underwater Photography Workshop is the opportunity to explore some of the world’s most pristine dive destinations. These workshops are often organized in locations known for their abundant marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the biodiversity-rich waters of Southeast Asia, each destination offers a unique photographic playground. Not only will you improve your photography skills, but you’ll also create memories of unforgettable dives in some of the planet’s most breathtaking underwater landscapes.

3. Hands-On Learning and Workshops

The best way to learn underwater photography is through hands-on experience. During a Bluewater Travel workshop, you’ll participate in guided dives with your mentors who will help you apply photography techniques in real-time situations. Additionally, the workshops include informative sessions and workshops that cover various aspects of underwater photography, including composition, lighting, camera settings, and post-processing. These sessions are interactive, allowing you to ask questions and engage in discussions with your mentors and fellow participants.

4. Small Group Environment

Bluewater Travel ensures that their workshops maintain a small group environment. This means more personalized attention from mentors and an intimate setting that fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among participants. The small group size allows for better communication, feedback, and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for underwater photography. Lifelong friendships and a supportive network of fellow photographers often result from these workshops, making them an excellent choice for solo dive travelers.

5. Conservation and Ethical Practices

Beyond just taking stunning images, underwater photographers have a responsibility to protect the delicate marine ecosystems they capture. Bluewater Travel emphasizes ethical diving and environmentally-friendly photography practices during their workshops. Participants are educated on how to minimize their impact on marine life and coral reefs, ensuring that they leave behind only bubbles and memories. Some workshops collaborate with local conservation organizations, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of marine conservation efforts.

Join a Bluewater Travel Underwater Photography Workshop!

In conclusion, a Bluewater Travel Underwater Photography Workshop is a remarkable opportunity for underwater photographers to grow their skills, explore breathtaking dive sites, and contribute to marine conservation efforts. The guidance of accomplished mentors, combined with hands-on learning and an emphasis on ethical practices, make these workshops an enriching and unforgettable experience. So, whether you are an experienced photographer looking to take your craft to new depths or a novice eager to plunge into the world of underwater photography, joining a Bluewater Travel workshop might just be the splash of inspiration you need. Join one of the upcoming workshops today!

Further Reading

To learn what to expect on a Bluewater Travel Underwater Photography Workshop, read about previous trips here.

Looking for new underwater photo gear? Head over to the store to find the latest cameras, lights, and more!

New Review: Read about our experience shooting with the Nikon Z8 here.

Heading on a liveaboard? Learn about how to keep your batteries charged onboard.

Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before you depart on a trip! Learn more about the importance of travel insurance here.

The post 5 Reasons to Join a Bluewater Travel Underwater Workshop first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

1. Understand the Power Situation: Before embarking on a liveaboard trip, it’s important to understand the power situation on the boat. All liveaboards provide electricity onboard, but you may only be allowed to charge your devices in common areas or only during certain hours.
2. Invest in Portable Power Banks: Portable power banks are a lifesaver when it comes to charging batteries on a liveaboard. These compact and portable devices can charge multiple devices simultaneously and provide an additional portable power source. Choose power banks with high-capacity batteries to ensure extended use and multiple charges, but make sure they meet TSA requirements.
3. Bring a power strip: On a liveaboard, power outlets may be limited, especially if multiple divers are charging their devices simultaneously. Bring a power strip (if permitted) so you can charge most of your batteries on one power outlet, keeping some power outlets open for other divers, and also keeping all your devices in one place on the boat.
4. Conserve Power: To maximize the lifespan of your batteries and minimize the need for frequent charging, adopt power-saving techniques. Lower the brightness of your device screens, disable unnecessary features or notifications, and close apps when not in use. These small adjustments can significantly extend battery life, allowing you to capture those incredible underwater moments for longer.

On a liveaboard adventure, having a reliable power source for charging batteries is essential to keep your electronic devices functioning throughout your diving experience. By understanding the power situation, carrying spare batteries, investing in portable power banks and solar chargers, coordinating charging times, and practicing power conservation, you can ensure your equipment remains powered up. With a well-planned approach to charging batteries, you can focus on what matters most – diving into the depths and immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the underwater world. Happy diving and happy charging!

To plan your next liveaboard holiday, contact the experts at Bluewater Travel here.

Further Reading

Top Tips for Liveaboard Packing

Welcome to the World of Liveaboard Diving

Best Liveaboard Destinations for Beginner Divers

Use a Packing List and Check it Twice: A Cautionary Tale

The post Powering Up: Charging Batteries on a Liveaboard first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

Scuba diving in Africa is a thrilling and diverse, known for it’s incredible diving opportunities, with abundant marine life, stunning coral reefs, and unique underwater landscapes. Africa’s coastal waters are teeming with marine biodiversity, providing divers with the opportunity to encounter an array of fascinating species. From colorful coral reefs to large pelagic creatures, Africa’s waters are home to a rich variety of fish, sharks, dolphins, turtles, and even whales in some areas.

Many diving destinations in Africa provide thrilling encounters with big marine life. From swimming with whale sharks in Mozambique and Tanzania to observing manta rays in Mozambique’s Tofo, there are opportunities to dive alongside some of the ocean’s largest and most majestic creatures. Other exciting encounters include sharks (such as tiger sharks, bull sharks, and hammerhead sharks) at the well known Aliwal Shoal. The most exciting encounter one will have is know as the biggest ocean migration in the world, commonly know as the Sardine Run which happens off the East Coast of South Africa.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Africa has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the best diving destinations in these regions:

South Africa

Located on the southernmost tip of the continent, South Africa is a popular destination for adventurers. Great white sharks, sardine runs, and a variety of bucket list animals can be found off the coast of South Africa. Aside from the truly spectacular scuba diving in South Africa, the region is also famous for its nature reserves and wildlife safaris.

Shark in South Africa

Sodwana Bay

Sodwana Bay is renowned for its pristine coral reefs, which are part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reefs are teeming with vibrant corals, colorful sponges, and a vast array of marine life. The warm waters and excellent visibility make it a paradise for underwater photography and marine exploration.

Diving in Sodwana Bay allows you to encounter a wide variety of marine species. You can expect to see a colorful array of tropical fish, including butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish. The reefs are also home to numerous species of moray eels, octopuses, and various crustaceans. It is also common to have close encounters with larger marine creatures like turtles, reef sharks, and rays as they gracefully swim through the waters.

Aliwal Shoal

Aliwal Shoal’s reputation as a world-class diving location stems from its unique combination of factors. The shoal is home to a variety of shark species, including the iconic ragged-tooth sharks, tiger sharks, and blacktip sharks. These magnificent creatures can often be encountered during dive expeditions, providing divers with the awe-inspiring opportunity to observe them up close and witness their natural behavior. Read more about diving with sharks at Aliwal Shoal here.

One of the highlights of diving on Aliwal Shoal is the chance to witness the captivating congregation of ragged-tooth sharks during their breeding season. As these majestic creatures gather in large numbers around sites such as Raggies Cave, divers have a rare opportunity to witness their calm and mesmerizing presence in their natural habitat. The encounters with these sharks are a true marvel of nature and leave a lasting impression on all who experience them.

Beyond the thrilling shark encounters, Aliwal Shoal offers a vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem. The coral reefs are adorned with colorful corals, sponges, and an abundance of reef fish, creating a kaleidoscope of underwater beauty. Dolphins, turtles, rays, and an array of other marine species also call these waters home, making every dive an exploration of a thriving and intricate underwater world.

Sardine Run

The Sardine Run of South Africa is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that occurs annually along the country’s east coast. Known as the greatest marine migration on Earth, this incredible event draws divers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

During the winter months of May to July, massive schools of sardines, numbering in the millions, migrate along the coastline. This incredible spectacle is driven by the colder waters of the Agulhas Current, which push the sardines northwards along the KwaZulu-Natal coast.

The Sardine Run attracts not only sardines but also a multitude of predators that follow in pursuit of the abundant food source. Dolphins, sharks, whales, and seabirds form massive feeding frenzies, creating a mesmerizing display of natural cooperation and competition. The skies are filled with diving gannets plunging into the water, while below the surface, dolphins and sharks dart through the shoals in a feeding frenzy.

For divers, the Sardine Run offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the intricate marine food chain in action. Submerging into the crystal-clear waters, divers can find themselves surrounded by swirling walls of sardines, as predators seize the opportunity to hunt. The underwater world comes alive with the energy and intensity of the chase, providing a front-row seat to nature’s spectacle.

Mozambique

Another region popular with the scuba diving community, Mozambique is home to some of the best diving in Africa. Whale sharks, manta rays, and a variety of corals are just some of the underwater attractions. Topside, Mozambique offers stunning landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna to be explored.

Tofo

Tofo offers a captivating diving destination nestled on the southeastern coast of Mozambique. With its warm waters, abundant marine life, and pristine coral reefs, Tofo has become a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts seeking an immersive and unforgettable underwater experience.

Situated near Inhambane, Tofo offers a diverse range of dive sites that cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced adventurers. As you descend into the turquoise waters, you’ll be greeted by vibrant coral gardens teeming with an array of colorful fish species. Tofo’s coral reefs are a sight to behold, boasting intricate formations and an abundance of marine biodiversity.

One of the highlights of diving in Tofo is the opportunity to encounter magnificent megafauna. The area is famous for its regular sightings of gentle giants, such as whale sharks and manta rays. From approximately October to April, these majestic creatures migrate through the waters of Tofo, offering divers an awe-inspiring chance to swim alongside them in their natural habitat.

Tofo’s marine ecosystem is also home to a rich variety of other marine species. Keep an eye out for turtles gracefully gliding through the water, playful dolphins dancing in the waves, and an assortment of reef fish darting amongst the coral. From colorful nudibranchs to fascinating moray eels and elusive seahorses, the marine life in Tofo will captivate your senses with its diversity and beauty.

Bazaruto

Bazaruto is a tropical paradise located off the coast of Mozambique, offering a scuba diving experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled in the Bazaruto Archipelago, this pristine marine destination is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, making it a haven for divers seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure.

The azure waters surrounding Bazaruto offers a world of remarkable beauty and biodiversity. The coral reefs here are a kaleidoscope of colors, adorned with intricate formations and an astonishing array of marine flora and fauna. From vibrant hard and soft corals to swaying sea fans, the underwater landscape is a sight to behold.

Diving in Bazaruto offers encounters with a diverse range of marine life. Swim alongside graceful manta rays as they glide effortlessly through the water, and witness the majestic presence of large pelagic species like whale sharks and humpback whales, which frequent the area during their seasonal migrations. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins, schools of tropical fish, and even the elusive dugongs that occasionally grace these waters.

The marine biodiversity extends beyond the coral reefs, with fascinating underwater seascapes and diverse ecosystems. Explore submerged pinnacles, underwater canyons, and coral gardens that are home to a myriad of smaller marine creatures, including colorful nudibranchs, crustaceans, and camouflaged octopuses. Bazaruto’s underwater world is a haven for photographers and marine enthusiasts alike, offering endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking moments.

Quirimbas

The Quirimbas Archipelago, a hidden gem of scuba diving located off the northern coast of Mozambique. With its pristine waters, untouched coral reefs, and abundant marine life, the Quirimbas offers a unique and captivating diving experience for adventurers seeking to explore its underwater wonders.

As you descend into the azure depths of the Quirimbas, you’ll discover a world teeming with vibrant coral formations, creating a breathtaking underwater landscape. The archipelago is home to a diverse range of coral species, including hard and soft corals, which provide a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Dive into this underwater paradise and immerse yourself in the beauty of the coral gardens that serve as a habitat for an abundance of marine life.

Possibly the most well known dive site in the Quirimbas is Metundo Canyon. Diving in Metundo Canyon provides divers with the opportunity to explore an underwater realm teeming with marine life. The nutrient-rich currents attract a diverse range of fish species, including large schools of pelagic fish, reef sharks, and rays. The vibrant coral formations that adorn the canyon walls serve as a habitat for a variety of colorful reef fish, creating a kaleidoscope of colors as you navigate through the depths.

Tanzania

Known for its incredible topside scenery and wildlife safaris, Tanzania also boasts some sensational underwater landscapes. Healthy reef systems, a variety of dive sites, and diverse marine life make Tanzania a great dive destination. Combine a dive trip to Tanzania with Bluewater Travel’s guided land safari to make the most of your holiday in Africa!

Topside scenery in Tanzania

Mafia Island

Mafia Island, a captivating diving destination nestled in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania. Known for its unspoiled beauty and rich marine biodiversity, Mafia Island offers an extraordinary diving experience for enthusiasts seeking to explore its pristine waters.

Situated within the Mafia Island Marine Park, this tropical paradise boasts a thriving coral reef ecosystem that is teeming with life. As you dive into the crystal-clear turquoise waters, you’ll discover a vibrant underwater world adorned with colorful coral formations, towering pinnacles, and fascinating swim-throughs.

Mafia Island is renowned for its incredible encounters with one of the ocean’s gentle giants—the majestic whale sharks. These magnificent creatures, which are the largest fish in the world, grace the waters around Mafia Island and offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience for divers and snorkelers. Whale sharks are known to visit Mafia Island’s waters between October and March, during the peak season. These massive creatures, measuring up to 40 feet (12 meters) in length, glide gracefully through the crystal-clear waters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for those lucky enough to witness them. Swimming alongside a whale shark is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.

Pemba Island

Diving off Pemba Island unveils a diverse and vibrant marine ecosystem, showcasing pristine coral reefs, impressive drop-offs, and an abundance of marine life. The coral formations here are known for their health and beauty, featuring a stunning array of hard and soft corals in a myriad of colors. Explore the intricate reef structures that provide a home for an extraordinary range of marine species.

Pemba Island is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and the variety of marine life that inhabits its waters. Encounter schools of colorful reef fish as they dart among the corals, from tiny clownfish to majestic angelfish and surgeonfish. Look out for larger pelagic species, such as barracudas, tuna, and even the occasional sighting of graceful manta rays or reef sharks.

One of the highlights of diving off Pemba Island is the opportunity to explore the steep drop-offs that plunge into the deep blue. Descending along these walls reveals a fascinating world of marine wonders. Keep an eye out for the unexpected, as you may spot elusive creatures like leaf fish, frogfish, and camouflaged octopuses hiding in the crevices.

The warm waters surrounding Pemba Island provide excellent visibility, making it a diver’s paradise. With favorable conditions year-round, divers of all levels can enjoy the underwater adventures that await.

Madagascar

The fourth-largest island in the world, Madagascar lies off the southeastern coast of Africa. This unique location is home to a variety of endemic species and is worth exploring topside as well as underwater. Divers are rewarded with gorgeous reefs and unforgettable marine life encounters.

Nosy Be

Nosy Be is a tropical paradise located off the northwest coast of Madagascar, offering a scuba diving experience like no other. Situated in the Mozambique Channel, Nosy Be boasts a wealth of marine biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and a range of captivating dive sites, making it a sought-after destination for divers from around the world.

Diving off Nosy Be reveals a vibrant underwater world that will leave you in awe. Explore a variety of dive sites, from shallow reefs to dramatic drop-offs and underwater pinnacles. The coral formations are stunning, adorned with an array of hard and soft corals in brilliant colors, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your underwater exploration.

Nosy Be is known for its diverse marine life, making it a haven for underwater enthusiasts. Encounter an abundance of tropical fish species, including colorful reef fish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. Keep your eyes peeled for encounters with larger marine creatures, such as hawksbill turtles, stingrays, and even the occasional sighting of reef sharks.

During the months September to January, encounters with megafauna can be an exhilarating experience. Whales and whale sharks are common sites as they migrate north. With the crystal clean waters, encounters with these animals can be a unforgettable experience.

Further Reading

Check out Bluewater Photo’s full range of underwater photography equipment here.

Learn more about diving in Mozambique with this article from the Underwater Photography Guide.

The post Best Scuba Diving Destinations in Africa first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

In November 2017, after leaving my corporate job and relocating to Bali, Indonesia the previous year to work as a scuba diving instructor, I sold my house and decided to treat myself to my dream dive holiday. I booked a spot on a 12-night luxury liveaboard trip in Raja Ampat. At that time, Mount Agung, Bali’s largest volcano, was erupting and I feared this would lead to road closures and congestion around the island so I quickly packed up my dive gear and GoPro, headed to South Bali a few days early, and crossed my fingers that a disgruntled volcano would not disrupt my plans.

The beginning of my trip was lucky, as the airport in Bali closed less than an hour after my delayed flight took off. I landed in Makassar to loads of messages from friends asking if I’d made it out. Indeed, I made it to Sorong with sufficient time to board the luxurious phinisi and explore the Four Kings with a group of enthusiastic divers.

Some of us with jobs and friends in Bali were a bit worried about the volcano erupting and the impact it would have on our return flights and businesses. However, once we were out of cellular range, we had no choice but to forget our worries and enjoy the incredible scenery. The food was amazing, the crew friendly and helpful, and the trip was very well organized.

The morning of our first dive, I readied my gear and put an SD card into my GoPro. As I descended, my mind was blown by the spectacular colors of the coral reef and the abundance of life surrounding it. It looked to me like an underwater orchestra, with an incredible variety of schooling fish moving in every direction.

Not my photo.

I aimed my GoPro to capture the spectacle and immediately saw an error on the screen: the SD card was not working. No problem, I’d swap out the card for the next dive and just enjoy the dive without using the camera. Once on board, I discovered that I’d neglected to pack any extra SD cards in my haste to leave North Bali. Nobody on board had a spare, so I had no choice but to make the most of the trip by enjoying the dives without any images or videos to take home with me.

The diving in Raja Ampat was the best I’ve ever experienced, and we covered the entire region from Misool to Dampier, completing a total of 18 dives. I had to skip the final dive, as I had caught the horrible sinus bug going around the boat, but I still cherish the memories of every dive I was able to join. At least I had my phone to take some great topside photos, as that scenery was almost as magical as underwater.

Photo by Jenny Hanna

I have considered the idea that I may have gotten more enjoyment out of the dives without my GoPro than I would have if it had been working. Rather than focusing on the camera and trying to capture the beauty of this remarkably pristine underwater landscape, I just took it all in. I played with a group of blacktip reef sharks while the rest of the group carried on ahead. On another dive, I lost sight of the entire group when I was in the middle of a huge bait ball of anchovies.

It brings to mind another GoPro mishap I experienced in Curacao in 2013, when I descended on my first dive to discover that the underwater housing for my brand-new GoPro had flooded. A few minutes later I spotted a pod of dolphins and discovered on the boat following the dive that only my buddy and I had seen them. The captain (with over 5,000 dives in the area) had never seen dolphins underwater.

What’s the moral of the story? Use a packing list and check it twice before you leave on your dream holiday. In the years since, I have had luckier experiences taking my GoPros on dive holidays. My GoPro recorded my underwater screams at seeing my first manta rays. I captured footage of a family of dolphins who spent an entire hour with only me and three friends in the Red Sea. I got a nice shot of a huge marble ray deep in the waters off Selayar Island in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. I spent ten weeks in Hawaii without a camera, so my diving on Kauai was relaxed and hassle-free. My new GoPro 10 has served me well while diving again at Menjangan Island, my favorite dive spot in Bali. It always feels like a gamble to me, though, if I will miss something amazing while focused on my camera or if it will capture the moments I dive with sea lions or eventually encounter my first whale shark. At the end of the day, I’d rather have a camera and not use it than want a camera and not have it.

The post Use a Packing List and Check it Twice: A Cautionary Tale first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

Menjangan Island is one of the lesser-known dive spots in Bali and it also happens to be my favorite. Located in West Bali National Park, the island is protected and uninhabited aside from the park rangers onsite to keep local fishermen at bay. Menjangan means “deer” in Bahasa Indonesia, and the island is named for the resident deer population that swim back and forth from the mainland, which is an unusual sight to behold.

Temple on Menjangan Island – photo by Jenny Hanna

The island is popular for both scuba diving and snorkeling and is easily accessed by boats from Bali and nearby Java. With a dozen dive sites to choose from, it is worthy of several visits and even in high season the dive sites are uncrowded. It is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs teeming with fish and other critters so photographers should bring both wide-angle and macro lenses.

Sea Fan – photo courtesy of Abyss Ocean World

Menjangan Island’s spectacular coral walls plunge to depths exceeding 160 feet (50 meters) and are adorned with a variety of pristine hard and soft corals and massive sea fans. Wide-angle photographers can capture the beauty of these walls, along with the schooling fish and occasional sharks swimming in the blue water. Very lucky divers or snorkelers may encounter a whale shark or mola mola, but these sightings are rare.

Macro photographers will find plenty of subjects to capture, including electric clams, a variety of nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, dartfish, jawfish, and a wide range of crabs and shrimps. Currents surrounding the island are generally mild, making it an excellent location for lining up that perfect shot.

Pygmy Seahorse- photo courtesy of Abyss Ocean World

A favorite dive site at Menjangan Island is Eel Garden, which includes a sprawling vertical coral wall giving way to a sandy bottom home to thousands of garden eels. The wall itself is captivating, however, looking out into the blue divers can spot huge schools of mackerel, fusiliers, and surgeonfish as well as groups of giant trevally darting in amongst the fish as they hunt. Across the sandy bottom is a beautiful coral reef where schools of barracuda, turtles, octopus, and titan triggerfish are often seen.

Another great dive site is Underwater Cave, which is known for its interesting topography. A plunging wall with numerous crevasses and overhangs, the “cave” itself is worth entering to experience the sunlight shining through openings in the reef and illuminating the interior. The walls of the cave are dotted with electric clams, and baby whitetip reef sharks sometimes take shelter in the cave until they are bold enough to explore the blue.

Underwater Cave – photo courtesy of Abyss Ocean World

There are several dive sites on the north side of the island with gentle sloping reefs, so divers who feel uncomfortable on walls can be easily accommodated. The marine biodiversity is incredible and the visibility typically ranges from 30 to 100 feet (10 to 30+ meters), so it really should be a must-visit when diving in Bali. Nearby Pemuteran Bay, Secret Bay, and Puri Jati are also hidden gems in Bali’s dive scene and home to some of the best shore diving in the world, making the area’s diving diverse enough for even the most discerning diver.

Whether you dive with a smartphone in an underwater housing or a huge underwater rig, pack your lenses and head to Northwest Bali on your next dive trip!

Watch a short documentary about Menjangan Island and the efforts to protect the area here.

Read about other off the beaten track dive areas in Indonesia here.

Learn how to take great photos on wall dives here.

The post Photographing Menjangan Island, Bali first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

If anyone has heard about Aliwal Shoal, it will shortly be followed by some comments about sharks. South Africa’s East Coast is well known for its shark populations, with Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks being the most well-known and dived areas. When it comes to general diving, Aliwal Shoal is probably the most dived and offers the more accessible option, and with the better chance of seeing sharks on a dive. We have been diving this reef system for more than 20 years and have developed some great dive plans and exciting days out on the water to maximize what we photograph, and the conditions in which to photograph these incredible creatures of the oceans.

Aliwal Shoal is a world-renowned dive site located off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. The shoal is named after the near sinking of the vessel, the Aliwal, in 1849, and is a narrow rocky reef that stretches for about 5 km along the coast. The reef is situated about 5km directly offshore from Scottburgh, and the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, and is home to an abundance of marine life, including a diverse range of fish species, sharks, rays, and turtles. One of the main attractions of diving at Aliwal Shoal is the opportunity to see the Ragged Tooth Sharks, which migrate to the area during the winter months. These magnificent creatures, also known as Sand Tiger Sharks, are the most commonly encountered shark species at Aliwal Shoal, and they are well-known for their distinctive appearance and docile behavior.

Sharks swimming near the surface at Aliwal Shoal

There are a number of locations in which to find these sharks as they escape the currents during the day. The most sought-after dive locations are Raggies Caves and Cathedral. Most days one will find anywhere from 3-15 or more sharks taking refuge in these caves and overhangs.

The other diving experience for which Aliwal Shoal has become well known is the oceanic black-tip shark dive. Here a bait drum is immersed into the bleaters just off the Shoal itself, where it then drifts in the current, sending an oil slick downstream, hopefully catching the attention of the resident sharks in the area. Often this “baiting” is not even required, as these sharks have been used to the boats and arrive not long after the boats have settled into the area. One can often get a variety of shark species on these dives, with the Blacktips being the more common (anywhere between 2 to 20 sharks at a time), but with Tiger Sharks often appearing, and even a Great White if one is lucky enough.

To maximize our time on the ocean, and to create images both in reef and in the blue water, we plan a whole day on the water, starting with an early morning boat launch through the waves, either from Umkomaas or Rocky Bay. First stop is the Shoal itself, with some deep dives to either Raggy Caves or Cathedral, those fully capture those iconic “grinning teeth” images for the Ragged Tooth Sharks as they drift around the caves and overhangs. These dives are often a hit or miss, as the one variable one cannot account for is the visibility on the Shoal, which can be 5m one day, and 35 the next, depending on the currents.

A shark at Aliwal Shoal

After 2 exploratory shark dives on the Shoal, we move off the reef and into the blue water and start our real shark photography. Drifting with sharks in the blue is an incredible experience, playing with light reflecting off the surface of the ocean, as well as experiencing their behavior, is something to savor, and something one will never forget. Working through the afternoon with the changing light conditions is the most rewarding part of the day, shooting into sun, as well as away, offers two different scenarios in which to get totally different results. Then the prime lighting arrives around sunset, with the oranges and soft lighting both above and below the water line. Overunders become our target shots, and we work this “sunset hour” to the max, as many shots are hit or miss, but just hoping for that one image that stands out from the rest.

A shark just under the surface at sunset.

After the sun has set, gear is packed away and we head for home, navigating using the lights on the shore, and experienced skippers that know the local water the best.

Recommended gear from these type of trips generally include cameras with a high shutter rate, including you top end DSLR’s such as the Nikon D850 or Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, other as technology moves more to the mirrorless cameras, the Sony A7R V, Nikon Z7ii, or the Canon EOS R5. As for lenses, obviously this is wide angle territory, fisheye lenses being your best option, otherwise a wide rectilinear lens such as the 16-35mm F4. For the over under images, we would recommend the fisheye as a minimum, together with a large dome port, such as the Nauticam 230mm optical glass dome port II, Marelux 230mm optical glass port or the Sea & Sea Fisheye dome port 240. The other essential items are strobes. As sharks are fairly fast-moving animals, you will require strobes with a fairly high power output (high Guide Number), and a high recycle rate. The recommended strobes would be something along the lines of the Sea & Sea YS-D3ii, as your best option.

Sharks at Aliwal Shoal

If you wish to join us on one of these ocean adventures, don’t hesitate to make contact, and we can ensure a memorable day on the ocean.

The post Diving with Sharks on Aliwal Shoal first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.

This article is the first of a series on “my favorite dives”. I’ve been lucky enough to dive at some of the best dive locations in the world, with some of the most fantastic aquatic animals. Picking just one is not possible – hence the need for a “my favorite dive” series.

Flashback to Wolf Island, Galapagos. Wolf Island is one of, if not the best, places in the world to see hammerhead sharks. Wolf Island, along with nearby Darwin Island, are the two most remote islands of the Galapagos Islands. In fact, you can go days without seeing another boat or human there, except for the ones on the boat with you.

Two hammerhead sharks making a close pass at Wolf Island

It takes about 14 hours to travel to Wolf from San Cristobal Island. The water is warmer at Wolf and Darwin than at the other Galapagos Islands, the marine life is prolific, and the currents are strong. Dolphins, whale sharks, eagle rays, and several shark specials are seen on a regular basis. Red-lipped batfish are found on the back side of the island. Wolf Island is named after a German geologist Theodore Wolf, who studied the Galapagos Islands in the late 1800s. There are no wolves or wolf eels here.

But the main attraction is the schools of hammerhead sharks. The hammerheads are there year-round, often coming to shallow water to get cleaned by butterfly fish. They are also very skittish.

Hammerhead shark getting cleaned in the Galapagos. You can see the butterfly fish that does the cleaning at the bottom of the photo.

Getting a close-up or a silhouette shot is not easy. They are afraid of divers, bubbles, and cameras – and they often swim quite deep, meaning you are looking down at them, into the dark depths.

On this particular dive, the schools were thick. They were coming slightly shallower over large rocks, and when I got below them, their beautiful silhouettes would fill the sky. I watched these majestic beasts dive after dive – we had 4 full days of diving at Wolf and Darwin.

Some of my most memorable dives ever were in the Galapagos. I can’t wait to go back. Stay tuned for “My Favorite Dives”, part II, featuring a huge manta ray!

For another great dive destination, read about the best diving in Africa here!

The post My favorite dive series – Hammerheads at Wolf Island, Galapagos first appeared on In Focus Underwater Photography Blog.