Ever looked at those fascinating pictures in the dive magazines and wondered just what it takes to produce such images, or perhaps you would like to capture that special encounter on your dives.

With the advent of cheaper and more easily available underwater cameras why not take the plunge and try your hand at underwater photography, with the PADI Underwater Photographer Specialty Course.

The course consists of independent academic study, classroom video presentation and instructor led discussion covering the principals of underwater photography. This is then followed by practical sessions of two dives at open water, with an option for pool training first, at the discretion of the course instructor, for initial practice and to verify current diving skill levels.

The presentations and discussions will cover the following topics -

• An Introduction to Photography and the Underwater World.
• Photography Basics Exposure.
• Photography Basics Focus and Perspective.
• Photography Basics Controlling Motion.
• Photography Basics Colour and the Spectrum.
• Photography Basics Camera Types.
• Photography Basics Strobe Photography.
• Underwater Photography Principles How Water Affects Light.
• Underwater Photography Principles Submersible Cameras, Housings and Strobes.
• Underwater Photography Principles Underwater Framing and Focus.
• Underwater Photography Principles Underwater Exposure.
• Underwater Photography Principles Composition.
• Diving with a Camera.
• Set Up and Maintenance for Underwater Photo Systems.
• Underwater Photo Situation Macro Photography.
• Underwater Photo Situation Still Life.

During the Open Water Dives segment participants are required to prepare their equipment and then take a variety of photographs exploring the various aspects of underwater photography. Whilst demonstrating good diving skills.

Prior to day 1 you will be expected to complete the independent study section of this course, completing all quizzes and knowledge reviews.

Day 1 Upon arrival at Simply Scuba you will receive a safety briefing and orientation to the dive centre. This will be followed by an introduction to the course and an overview of what to expect and whats expected of you. This is followed by a Video presentation and Instructor led discussion about Underwater Photography, plus the checks and responsibilities involved in this challenging and rewarding aspect of scuba diving. Students will then prepare for the days diving activities, checking and preparing equipment, before leaving the dive centre for the pool or chosen dive site. At the end of the day participants return to Simply Scuba or appropriate dive base for de-kitting followed by a debriefing of the days activities and completion of certification administration.

If desired, and subject to instructor availability, a post course critique can be held with individual students to look at their results, once processed.

Participants must hold a minimum diver certification of PADI Open Water Diver, or an equivalent rating.

Minimum age is 10 years*.

Hire of diving equipment.

Dive site entrance fees, and PADI Certification fees.

Loan of a standard 35mm dedicated underwater camera with strobe for use on the course, participants may be required to share this unit.

Cost of Camera film.

Transportation from Simply Scuba dive centre to the pool and or selected dive site venue is your responsibility.

2 passport sized photographs.

Your log book and proof of your current level of diving certification.

Swim Wear and Towel.

Packed lunches.

*Participants under 16 years must be accompanied on the course by a suitably qualified parent or legal guardian.

Like all training courses where certain levels of performance are required to pass it is important to realize that you must reach the required levels of proficiency for each aspect of the course in order for the instructor to certify you, (just like on a driving test). If you fail to achieve the required standards we will endeavor to give you the opportunity for further training, however this would incur additional cost.

The PADI Underwater Photography Specialty Course is part of the PADI Diver Continuing Education Program, designed to encourage divers to further their Knowledge and Skills under the safe supervision of professional instructors. It combines well with other such courses such as the PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy Diver Specialty Course.