What dose it take to be a Under water Photographer?
i am a Junior in high school and is looking for a job in photographer. I was looking and found under water photographer. What does it take to be a under water photographer? Does it pay well? Is it a fun job? Do you work with other people? Thanks #photography #photographer #underwater
3 answers
Bob’s Answer
I have done several underwater shots and these can be very tricky to do correctly. First, a dedicated underwater camera (or housing) is important. This does not mean that you need to spend $1000 on the setup, but don't go with the bargain base setup either unless you want a flooded camera and ruined images. Definitely start in a pool that is not over treated with Chlorine.
Your subject (person) should be comfortable underwater (at least 20 seconds). You will need bubbles to clear once underwater if you hope to get a decent picture.
Of course you will need to focus, maintain your balance, compose, hit the shutter release after you are underwater for 5-10 seconds. It takes practice, but can be done. Practice sliding underwater rather than jumping to reduce debris scatter. You typically need to fill the frame with your subject and be fairly close to get a good image.
Once you have practiced in a pool, consider becoming scuba certified.
Eula’s Answer
It could be lots of fun.
You would be working in an unusual ambiance. Dead still and under pressure. You may not realize, it is potentially dangerous. Sharks, caves and deep pressure can turn into a blood disease.
For this same resso, it pays very well. The group of underwater photographers are much less.
Do you love the sea and marine life?
Do you love to tell you sea adventure story to others?
Are you patient in waiting for the stingray to show up?
If yes, then this might just be the perfect job for you.
Let me know if this helped. OK?
Angela’s Answer
Now with regards to equipment, you don't have to break the bank spending thousands on a camera, housing, strobe, etc. -- you can start with a lower priced entry model with good quality that sets you up with the necessary basics to shoot phenomenal images under-water. Sealife is a great company, as is the ever popular GoPro; however, if you already have a topside camera you love (Nikon, Sony, Cannon, etc) you can investigate adding on the housing, lens and strobes for your specific camera model. Either way, there are many options at great entry prices which produce stunning images -- have fun exploring!
Personally, I have an INCREDIBLE passion for scuba diving and under-water photography, but I am not a professional -- this is my hobby, so take my advice with a grain of salt. Ask others, consult professional resources, attend Scuba Diving consumer shows, etc. - do your homework and research before jumping in. It's amazing and an addiction, the desire to capture these unbelievable and magical moments & marine-life to share topside with friends & family -- only 1% of the world's population actually gets to explore 70% of the world's surface (our oceans) -- it truly is a rare, otherworldly and beautiful experience! So if this is your passion, go out and learn, dive and make stunning photography to share with the rest of the world... just make sure to be a responsible diver and respect the ocean! Take pictures, make memories, but love & help the ocean by educating others... it's the soul of Mother Earth and vital to our planet's health!