Underwater photography can be one of the most rewarding genres of photography, nailing a shot of a clown fish in a beautiful red anemone with both fins showing whilst looking straight into the camera opening his mouth is an image probably everyone would like, however anyone who has ever tried to nail that shot will know underwater photography can also be one of the most frustrating genres to master! Unfortunately I cannot do anything about the clown fish moving skittishly or the visibility or other external factors you may encounter, however, having been taught myself by the master of underwater photography, Martin Edge, I can confidently say I can show you the techniques to help you improve your photography from a basic level.
On a SeeLIFE one day underwater photography workshop, we will spend time looking through your images and discussing what you like and examine the reasons why and explore these reasons further. We will then look at the theory behind creating fantastic underwater images. Despite the obvious differences of actually being underwater, breathing compressed air and understanding how the light changes underwater, it is important to realise that many land photography rules still apply including composition, direction of lighting, preparation and research which we will cover.
Once we have covered the specific areas you need help with and the theory, we will take a more practical approach and get into the pool to practise and start the journey of taking stunning underwater images.
On a SeeLIFE two day underwater photography workshop, we will spend the beginning of the second day reviewing the pool session images. We will then do a dive together to photograph real underwater inhabitants then review (in camera) your images and go back for a second dive to ensure you have perfected your technique.
SeeLIFE's underwater photography workshops are best suited to developing photographers needing to take the first step and make a real impact on the images you are shooting and are open to either compact or DSLR users. I use a Hugyfot camera housing with a Canon 50D and Inon Z240 strobes, I also have a Hugyfot housing with a Canon 400D if you are looking to upgrade or change systems and would like to try out the sexiest camera housing on the market!
Underwater Photography workshops are usually run on a one to one basis to ensure you have the best possible attention through the course to meet your needs, however if you have a friend or partner of a similar level please call to discuss the possibility of doing a workshop together.
You will need to provide your own scuba equipment although it may be possible to borrow cylinders and weights if arranged in advance. If you do not have your own scuba equipment I can arrange hire through a local dive centre. You will also need a working knowledge of your camera and its' functions , please bring your camera manual on the day.
As Underwater Photography workshops are run on an individual basis it is not possible to set dates for them like the landscape photography workshops, so for more information and / or to book a workshop with SeeLIFE, please contact me on helen@seelifethroughthelens.com or on 07866 440740.
Many thanks to Will Clarke and Kathy White for the use of their images of Helen and her Hugyfot housing
