Diving with a Camera: A Guide for Newly Certified Divers

Diving with a Camera: A Guide for Newly Certified Divers

Jun 27

Congratulations on earning your scuba diving certification! As you embark on your underwater adventures, you may find yourself drawn to the idea of capturing the beauty you encounter beneath the waves. We’ll discuss the benefits, considerations, and tips to help you make the most of your underwater photography journey.

Mastering the Basics

As a newly certified diver, it’s crucial to focus on mastering the fundamental skills of scuba diving before introducing additional equipment like a camera. Spend time building your confidence, buoyancy control, and situational awareness. Becoming comfortable and proficient underwater will not only enhance your safety and the safety of marine life but also allow you to concentrate on capturing stunning images.

Start with a Compact Camera or Action Camera

For newly certified divers, starting with a compact camera or an action camera is a wise choice. These cameras are relatively affordable, compact, and easy to handle underwater, allowing you to work on your scuba diving skills and at the same as capturing images. These cameras offer automatic settings that allow you to focus on composition and subject matter while the camera handles technical aspects such as exposure and white balance. Compact cameras and action cameras are great tools to practice with before considering more advanced equipment.

Invest in Proper Housing

To protect your camera from water damage, investing in a quality waterproof housing is essential. The housing should be specifically designed for your camera model and offer adequate protection and functionality underwater. Ensure proper maintenance and care of the housing to prevent leaks and damage. Regularly inspect the o-rings and seals and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance.

Focus on Composition and Lighting

Composition and lighting are key elements in underwater photography. Pay attention to the positioning of your subjects, their interaction with the environment, and the overall balance of the image. Use natural light to your advantage, experimenting with angles and shadows to create visually striking photographs. As you gain experience, consider adding external lighting options like strobes or video lights to enhance the vibrancy and clarity of your images.

Respect Marine Life and Environment

As a responsible diver, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being of marine life and the environment. Avoid touching or harassing marine creatures and be mindful of your buoyancy to prevent accidental damage to fragile coral reefs. Remember, your primary goal should always be the preservation and respect of the underwater ecosystem.

Practice, Patience and Persistence

Underwater photography requires patience and persistence. Not every dive will result in extraordinary shots, but every experience is an opportunity to learn and improve your skills. Take time to observe marine behavior, anticipate their movements, and seek out unique compositions. Embrace the process and enjoy the journey as you develop your own style and capture breathtaking moments.

Diving with a camera can be an incredibly rewarding experience for newly certified divers. It allows you to share your underwater adventures, preserve memories, and inspire others to explore the mesmerizing world beneath the surface. By focusing on mastering the basics, starting with suitable equipment, and practicing responsible diving, you can capture stunning images while continuing to grow as a diver. So, grab your camera, dive into the depths, and embark on an exciting journey of exploration and creativity. Happy diving and happy photographing!

Read our article about Editing Underwater Images here.

Learn more about the basics of underwater photography, including guides, tips, and tutorials at the Underwater Photography Guide.

Check out the latest underwater camera gear for sale or rent at the Bluewater Photo Store.

Looking for inspiration for your next dive trip? Head over to Bluewater Dive Travel and talk to one of their dive travel experts to plan your next holiday!

Join one of Bluewater Travel’s underwater photography workshops to improve your photography skills and experience some of the best diving in the world!

Read our tips for underwater photography at night here.