Should I be an underwater photographer?

Underwater photography combines creativity with excellent diving skills!

But how do you know if you'd enjoy actually being an underwater photographer? What exactly does the job entail?

Let's explore if this unique path is for you!

Underwater photographers, or marine photographers, have an important role in:

• Environmental awareness: You can work to build awareness about the beauty of marine ecosystems and the effects of human activities.

• Scientific research: Your photos could help researchers study marine animals, habitats, and ecosystems.

• Inspiring wonder: You could have the chance to widely share your photos and build people's appreciation for underwater worlds.

  Photo by NEOM on Unsplash

Underwater photographers are often responsible for:

• Dive planning and execution: Organizing and conducting dives to specific locations.

• Equipment preparation: Maintaining cameras, housings, lighting, and diving gear.

• Photography: Capturing images of marine life, landscapes, or underwater events.

• Editing: Editing photographs to enhance quality and prepare for publication.

• Client interaction: Communicating with clients or publishers regarding project requirements.

What It Actually Takes

Certifications:

• Open Water Diver (through PADI, NAUI, SSI)

Trainings:

• Digital underwater photographer course

• Marine life & conservation training

• Editing courses in Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other editing tools

Equipment:

• Camera gear — camera, waterproof case, lens options, lights

• Diving gear — mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit/drysuit, buoyancy control device, regulator, dive computer

Check out these resources:

• BDPhotographs Youtube Channel to see some on-the-job experiences

• Underwater Photography Blog for recommendations on equipment and how to get started

• Ocean Snaps online course for getting started

• Freelancing: Selling images to magazines, websites, or stock photo agencies.

• Contract work: Collaborating with marine research organizations, tourism boards, or environmental groups.

• Teaching: Offering photography and diving courses.

• Media production: Contributing to documentaries or advertising campaigns.

The average pay is approximately $20 an hour, equating to about $42,349 USD and $42,184 CAD annually.

Some underwater photographers may double as scuba diving instructors (with additional certifications)! That can bring in $49,145 USD annually.

• Adventure: Exploring underwater environments.

• Flexibility: Working in diverse locations and conditions.

• Nature: Interacting with marine life.

• Creativity: Capturing unique and important images.

• Physical demands: Spending long periods underwater, on boats, and handling heavy gear.

• Unpredictable conditions: Changing weather and water clarity.

• Irregular income: Freelance and seasonal work may cause inconsistent earnings.

• Technical challenges: Taking care of special equipment.

Waverly

• Loves to explore nature and spends some weekends hiking or snorkeling.

• Enjoys photography but prefers capturing everyday moments on land.

Alex

• Has a strong interest in marine biology and loves learning about ocean life.

• Prefers sticking to a regular routine and dislikes surprises or changes in plans.

Taylor

• Loves adventure and trying new things, like scuba diving and rock climbing.

• Often stays calm under pressure and enjoys solving technical challenges.

Mia

• Enjoys creative hobbies like painting and photography.

• Has extreme motion sickness on boats and fear of deep water.

Does it sound like underwater photography could be a good path for you?

If it does...