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Underwater photography is the process of taking photographs while under water, scuba diving, snorkelling or swimming. An activity that combines the very highest skills of the diver, the photographer and the hunter.
Popularity
Under water photography is not an activity undertaken by large numbers of people, due mainly to the high degree of specialist skills necessary and the unavoidable initial costs. The rewards of diligence can be spectacular.
Location
Under water photography is possible in almost any water, but relative beginners are most likely to be found in locations where there are minimal waves, warm clear water, and something particularly interesting to see near the surface.
Age
There are no age limits to under water photography, other than those of common sense. As with all forms of diving, it is always recommended that for safety one not dive alone, but rather with an observer or guide.
Ability
Under water Photography is not an activity to be under taken by a person who is not already very competent at all three of the necessary component activities, diving, photography and animal hunting (stalking).
Description
The primary obstacle faced by underwater photographers is the extreme loss of color and contrast when submerged. The longer wavelengths of sunlight (such as red or orange) are absorbed quickly by the surrounding water, everything appears blue-green in color. The loss of color not only increases vertically, but horizontally, so subjects further away from the camera will also appear colorless and indistinct.
Dedication
Two techniques are necessary to get good results; By getting the camera as close to the photographic subject as possible minimizes horizontal loss of color, (the subject is often only inches away from the camera). Secondly is the use of flash to restore any color lost vertically. Fill-flash, used effectively, will paint in any missing colors by providing full-spectrum visible light to the overall exposure.
Potential
The primary attraction is the opportunity to observe and record underwater life in a natural setting, seen by very few people and recorded by many less. A competent and experienced under water photographer will always be commercially desirable.
Closely
Related Activities
Photography 462, Stalking animals with a camera 580. Skuba diving 205, Snorkeling 781, Free diving 782.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
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Legs
|
Sight
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Hearing
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Speech |
Learning |
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