Underwater Photography A Pictorial Guide to Shooting Great Pictures

Beginning underwater photographers may be surprised to find that there are numerous tools—from fully automated cameras, to smart phone cameras, to sophisticated DSLRs—that can be used to create incredible underwater photographs. In this book, author Larry Gates (of Aberdeen, South Dakota) “dives in” to the topic of underwater photography and teaches the skills beginning photographers need to explore saltwater and freshwater environments. Beginning with a look at the equipment used, Gates explains how to keep your camera water-tight, choose lenses and accessories, and assemble your system. You’ll learn which lenses are best for photographing large versus small creatures, reef scenes, wrecks, divers, and more. You’ll also learn how to work with a strobe, ensure sharp focus, and increase the odds of getting images with vibrant color. Finally, Gates provides strategies for managing your workflow and doing basic image editing after the dive.

With images and tips from numerous contributors, a look at innovative capture options, and interesting facts about aquatic life, divers and photo enthusiasts will learn the skills they need to embark on their first oceanic (or river, stream, or lake!) adventure.

Larry Gates began his underwater photography adventure in 1992. He worked in the SCUBA industry for over 20 years, beginning in 1993 as a PADI Divemaster. In 1994, he became a SCUBA instructor and underwater photographer in Maui and South Dakota. He spent over 17 years in Key Largo, FL, then worked short stints in the Bahamas on live-aboard and land-based dive operations in the Turks, Caicos, and the Cayman Islands.

The last 10 of these years he dedicated himself to teaching underwater photography. During that time, he worked mostly with beginning underwater photographers, though he also worked with more advanced underwater photographers who were having issues with some aspect of their photography. This book is drawn from those experiences. Larry considers it great fun to help divers get started with or improve their underwater photography. He currently lives in Key Largo, FL.