At some point, most divers are going to want to take up underwater photography. Maybe it’s because you want to preserve those memorable dives, or maybe you want to share the wonders of the underwater world with non-diving friends and family. Whatever the reason, planning your dive trips will require a little more effort and thought.
The first decision you’ll need to make is deciding exactly where you want to go. There’s several considerations to keep in mind, particularly if you plan to photograph certain species. In general, you’re most likely going to be looking at three different environments; each one offering its own unique marine fauna and plant life.
1. Caribbean. The Caribbean has the advantage of year-round warm water temperatures, which means nothing more than a dive skin or shorty’s required. The crystal clear waters also make for some fantastic photography, as do the assorted rays and corals that make the Caribbean their home. You may also want to consider packing a macro kit for the smaller fauna that you'll find in abundance here.
2. Mediterranean. Most of the Mediterranean isn’t really spectacular in terms of fish, but the unique black coral found here is well worth the effort. In addition, the Mediterranean is one of the best spots in the world for wreck dives. You’ll find an abundance of ships for your album, ranging from old Spanish galleons to destroyers and other warships sunk during World War II.
3. Pacific. Of the three, this is most likely to offer the most varied species and flora. Whether it’s the forests of kelp off the California coast, or the recently accessible wrecks and emerging life of the Bikini Atoll, photographers will find something here that meets their interests.
Once you have an idea of your itinerary, it’s time to move on to planning the logistics of the trip. In particular, you want to make sure you have the waterproof housing for your camera ready and in working order. After all, one leak can easily ruin a trip if it winds up costing you a couple thousand dollars for a new camera. Also, check to make sure your equipment is in working order and that you’ve gathered any lenses you intend to take with you. Now’s also the time to make sure any strobes or other accessories you intend to use are in good shape and fitted with new batteries.
The most critical aspect of your trip isn’t on the dive itself. Rather, it’s at the airport on your way to the dive site and returning home. As you might know, security has become increasingly tight over the years. However, one thing you absolutely need to insure is that your film is not in the bag you check. Nor do you want to allow the TSA agents to run it through the x-ray machine at the checkpoint. It's easy to ruin a roll of film by exposure to the emissions from the machine. Protect your work and souvenirs by insisting that it be hand screened; especially on your return flight.
