Part 3 of a Three-Part Series on Underwater Photography Etiquette
Imagine calmly watching an octopus as it bravely ventures out of its den to inspect you up close. You keep still and feel a tentacle gently feeling out your hand with its many suction cups. In that split second, you face a choice: try to get the "perfect shot," or first allow yourself to fully experience this magnificent moment.
As underwater photographers, we often find ourselves caught between two worlds – the technical realm of f-stops and strobes, and the pure, raw wonder of being present in the ocean's embrace.
In this final installment of our three-part series on underwater photography etiquette, we'll explore how mindfulness not only enriches our underwater experiences but also leads to more meaningful, authentic images.
Whether you're an experienced underwater photographer or just starting your journey beneath the waves, mastering the art of mindful photography might be the missing piece in elevating both your diving experience and your portfolio.
This revelation transformed my photography, taking it to new heights. Here’s how:
1. Embrace the Joy of Discovery
Surrounded by a big school of fish.
Have fun and don’t be too serious. Seriousness will suck the joy right out of something you love doing. In our quest for the perfect shot, it’s easy to get caught up in technical perfection and forget why we love underwater photography. Remember that beneath the surface, every dive is an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether photographing a familiar reef or exploring a new site, approach each descent with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Some of my best underwater photos came when I stopped obsessing over camera settings and immersed myself in the wonder of the ocean. The slightly blurry image of a dolphin at the surface taking a breath might not be technically perfect, but it preserves a magical moment that can’t be recreated.
Keep that childlike sense of wonder alive. Celebrate small victories — like nailing the lighting on a macro shot or catching a fish yawning. Share these moments with your dive buddies. Their excitement will amplify yours, creating a positive feedback loop for enjoyable dives.
2. Beyond the Lens: Moments of Connection
Here's a little secret: some of the most profound underwater experiences happen when we just put the camera down. Nature offers precious windows of connection — fleeting moments that can’t be captured. I'll never forget the day I learned this lesson. I was in Mozambique, still a newbie diver, when I experienced my first encounter with a massive hawksbill sea turtle. As we swam side by side, our eyes met in a moment I'll never forget, even after many years. I simply watched in awe as it swooped overhead. That wordless connection left an imprint no photograph could match.
These moments are everywhere. Whether it’s a playful dolphin, a seal studying you, or a small fish approaching you, these connections are gifts. Don’t let the pursuit of the perfect shot blind you to opportunities for genuine interaction.
Sometimes, the best choice is to let your camera hang at your side. Breathe deeply and feel the water’s gentle movement. Just watch the marine life and create space for moments to happen. These experiences transform us from photographers into true ocean ambassadors.
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” — Marcel Proust
As discussed in Part 2, mastering your equipment is essential for experiencing these special moments. When you're comfortable with your gear, you can focus on connecting with nature – and that connection will keep drawing you back to the water. If you're struggling with equipment, these precious moments might slip away unnoticed.
3. Inspire to Protect
As underwater photographers, we hold a unique power: to bring the ocean’s magic to those who may never venture beneath its surface. Our images can spark wonder, raise awareness, and inspire action. But this privilege comes with responsibility.
Beautiful reefscape in Gordon's Bay, Cape Town.
We can document the beauty and challenges our oceans face through our lenses. People protect what they love, and our images can kindle that love.
Our strongest influence comes not from our photographs but from our actions. Every dive is an opportunity to demonstrate responsible behavior. When other divers see you maintaining perfect buoyancy, keeping a respectful distance from marine life, or picking up underwater debris, you set a standard that ripples through the community. Your dedication to ethical photography practices can inspire others.
Each image we share is more than a photograph — it’s a chance to advocate for ocean conservation. Your voice matters in the global marine protection conversation, whether you have 10 followers or ten thousand.
“The greatest danger to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” — Robert Swan
Conclusion
In conclusion, mindfulness in underwater photography transforms both the photographer and their work. When we balance our artistic pursuit with present-moment awareness, we discover that our best images often emerge from our most authentic encounters.
Remember that your journey as an underwater photographer is unique. Some days, you'll create stunning images that move others to action. Other days, you'll surface with no photos but with memories that will last a lifetime. Both outcomes are equally valuable in your growth as a photographer and ocean advocate.
As you continue your underwater photography journey, challenge yourself to find that sweet spot between technical mastery and mindful presence. Let your camera be not just a tool for documentation but a bridge that connects people to the ocean's magic—and ultimately, to its preservation.
Read the Complete Series:
- Part 1: Getting Started with Underwater Photography Etiquette
- Part 2: Mastering Your Equipment Underwater
- Part 3: The Art of Mindful Underwater Photography (You are here)
We Protect what we Love. Join the movement!
by Madelein Wolfaardt
Images ©️ by @sealife_madeleinwolf
Capture the ocean’s magic with my Underwater Photography Course! Build your skills, learn expert techniques, and create stunning underwater images. For those aiming for certification, I also offer the PADI Underwater Photography Specialty Course. Dive in and turn your passion into incredible photos!
