Need a New Profile Pic? Here's What you Need to Know About Being a Good Underwater Subject

Model Ken appears calm and relaxed next to this massive goliath grouper in the sand, shot in 65ft of water.

As scuba divers we get to see and experience a part of the world most landlubbers only get to dream about. I passionately believe we have an obligation to share what we see below the surface as a way to inspire others to care and consider the impact we all have on our delicate aquatic environment. I have spent much time documenting coral bleaching and disease, capturing photos of fish with hooks dangling from the side, and sharing pretty pictures of critically endangered species in hopes that people will take an active interest in the preservation of our oceans.

Profile-picture worthy pose from model Erick.

Model Jon comes in for his close-up behind some beautiful sea fans along the edge of the reef.

As much as I would love to say all my photography has altruistic intentions, I have to admit I equally love capturing people just enjoying diving underwater. Much of my work done aboard our Kyalami boats is with people here on vacation that want to go back with a few snapshots of their awesome experiences underwater. And to be able to share this with them can at times be just as fulfilling as raising awareness regarding heavy topics like coral disease. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t want an awesome shot of themselves doing what they love?! The fact that I can give that to people is really gratifying.

Model Erin takes long, slow and controlled breaths which allows for a clean shot next to this sleepy loggerhead on Breaker’s Reef.

When divers hire me as their underwater photographer there are a few tips I generally share to ensure our photoshoots are successful: First, just relax and go with the flow. There is no need to pose for the camera, in my opinion the best photos are of people looking at animals and enjoying the scenery.

Pro Tip: allow the animal to come between you and the photographer to give a unique sense of scale. This jellyfish is no larger than a dinner plate. but looks much bigger due to the perspective.

Next, there are only a couple things that will ruin photos that I absolutely cannot fix in post processing: a fogged up mask and bubbles in the face. If you’re diving with a new mask, you must make sure you have done a good thorough scrub and burn ahead of time. Masks with a clear skirt area great for models as you can see more of the face, but they aren’t a requirement.

A clean, clear mask free of fog is critical for photos! A rebreather is a nice perk since there are no bubbles, but this is a serious commitment and certainly not a requirement.

In regards to bubbles, slow and steady breathing is the key. I will NEVER ask my clients to break the 1st rule of scuba diving and hold their breath underwater. I will, however, ask that they breath slow and intentionally. I do my best to time the shots during the small of window of opportunity where exhaled bubbles are disappearing overhead and the diver is taking a nice, long and slow inward breath. This is the sweet spot for photos.

You can see model Brandon’s bubbles escaping from the corner of the frame as he takes a slow, controlled breath in while admiring the beautiful barrel sponge.

Lastly, there is an important rule in underwater photography that is helpful for subjects to understand. If you can’t touch it, then you can’t light it. And if you can’t light it at 75ft under the water, then there is no way to get a great photo with accurate color and texture captured. So yes, I need to get close. Close to the subject, close to the animal, close to the reef, without touching any of it of course. This is where proper buoyancy control is critical for both the photographer and subject. Our cool photos for Instagram should never come at the expense of damaging the reef or frightening wildlife. Please consider your skill level before hiring someone to photograph you underwater.

This shot was taken at around 90ft of depth on the Wreck Trek in Jupiter, so getting close with the light was critical for proper exposure. Model Shaun Gallant had excellent control of his buoyancy while I moved in slowly to get the shot.

Overall, this is one of the most fun and fulfilling parts of my work as an underwater photographer: allowing others to take home snapshots of what we experienced together underwater to share with their friends and family. And maybe even take their favorite and turn it into their new profile picture. ;) So what are you waiting for, book your photo package with us today: Professional Photography & Guided Dives — Jupiter Scuba Diving.

This happy couple had just gotten engaged, underwater! One of my favorite photo shoots to date. Felt so honored to be a part of their special day.