Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

Underwater Photography Simplified
I actually took an underwater photo class with Larry in Key Largo, Fl. a few years ago and was thrilled to see that he wrote this book. It brought back memories of the laid back, easy to understand approach that he uses to teach.

The book is laid out so a "regular guy" can read and actually understand what you need to know to take great pictures underwater. Larry also gives great tips on what to do before, what to expect on the dive boat, and what to do after your dives that you won't get from other books.

If you are just starting out with underwater photography or need a book that you can understand without being a professional photographer, this is the book for you!

Underwater Photo made easy
I would have given this a 5 except the cover is already starting to come off. The contents are certainly worth it. Reading and the easy way the writer has made understanding the concepts of digital photography has already helped me improve my shots in this new medium and explains some of the mistakes I was making.

The only other fault I have found so far is A mis-lablling of a couple of illustrative photographs. Excellent introduction for those entering the digital realm of underwater photography

How to master technical photography skills needed to create fine underwater images
L. Gates's Beginner's Guide to Underwater Digital Photography tells how to master technical photography skills needed to create fine underwater images. From selecting the right camera and adding light to designing compositions to suit an image, step-by-step tips for all phases of a photography dive are covered in this outstanding reference.

Loved the Book!
If you are just beginning in underwater photography, or simply looking to refresh, improve, or fine tune your present photo skills, the "Beginner's Guide to Underwater Digital Photography" provides practical underwater photo instruction, equipment tips and lighting techniques that any diver can put to use the next time they dive.

Larry Gates does a great job explaining photo and camera techniques.He follows up with great examples, adds a little humor, and makes the learning process fun!He also gives examples of what not to do, so this helps the underwater photographer avoid many problems that are unique to underwater photography.

Whether or not you are shooting with a digital SLR, or a compact "Point and Shoot" style digital camera, or even with film, this book is the perfect guide to taking better underwater photos.The author takes you right from choosing the right equipment for your needs, to taking photos, editing photos, dive photo etiquette, manual settings, special effects, wide angle, macro, and much more.There is also a great chapter on equipment care and maintenance.

I would definitely recommend this book if you are new to underwater photography, are looking to improve your underwater photo skills, or just need to refresh your memory because you haven't been diving in a while.

Fabulous book!
Very informative book -- Larry is a fabulous photographer -- and makes taking underwater photographs understandable for all levels of photographers and divers. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (16)

A moderately useful addition to my library.
When it come to "Good" books on underwater photography, there is little point is any serious review stating this product is better than that product because each work invariably includes different elements of the overall subject. This is largely because different authors have different experiences on which to draw.

There was a time when I was so very comfortable with my Nikon 35mm cameras in their large aluminium housings I really didn't care that the equipment was out-of-date - all I needed was film. Over time, the results of my endeavours had supported four books of my own, many by other people and I don't know how many articles. One picture was even used by National Geographic as the cover shot for one of their videos!

And then came Digital and I had to change almost everything. My personal conversion proved to be a VERY steep leaning curve and even now I am not quite as comfortable as I used to be as few short years ago. I mention all this because I never used to buy books on underwater photography - not because I knew it all, certainly not! It was because I was plodding along quite happily (and moderately successfully!) - and if it ain't broke don't fix it.

Now I take every opportunity to continue the ongoing education demanded by Digital photography. Not all the books I read are on underwater photography but of those that are, this is only of moderate use. It is not as comprehensive as one might expect, does not contain sufficient information on several separate areas and, it must be said, some of the photographs are not as good as one would expected to find in a book which says this is how it should be done! Nevertheless, there are lessons to be learned so it does provide a moderately useful addition to my personal library.

NM

Not what I was looking for...
I have a bit of experience, but not much with underwater photography... I was looking for something to take me to the next level.This book seemed like more of the same, and didn't provide me with much.I would say that it is also a bit outdated...

WOW!!
INTOVA INWD-IC600 6.0 Megapixel Digital Camera with Waterproof Housing -180FTWe purchased this camera for our granddaughter's 13th birthday.She has taken underwater pictures of her brother at an indoor pool which were great.She has taken videos of different things outside of the water and both the picture and audio are terrific.She will be using it on a trip to the Pacific and is eager to use it to film underwater there.Great Buy!!

digital book
This book was quite helpful learning digital underwater photography.It is a starting spot for more advanced learning.

Husband Loves It
I bought this for my scuba diving photographer husband as a present. He said it is an excellent book as he leafed through it. Then he sat down to read it immediately. That's quite a positive reaction for him.

Denise ... Read more

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Product Description

Customer Reviews (13)

Good beginners book
Good book, well laid out, my only complaint is that way too much space is given to non Adobe add-ons.

The book is written for someoine with basic knowledge of Photoshop (doesn't matter which version)who wants to fix specific problems with their underwater photos.Some of the fixes are a little gimmicky, like making it look like a flsh fired when it didn't etc, but mostly good tips and help.

The edition is a little dated still using a lot of film pictures (taken back in the film era.The whole book seems to be about 5-7 years behind and they should really think about an update without all the Photoshop add-ons which should really be in another sererate book.

Eye-Opening But Requires You to Work and Think
I've been using Photoshop since Ver. 3.0... But this book gave me insights and tips on techniques I had never used before.

PRO: Clear, concise overviews and discussions on techniques and functions. I like how they explain how a tool works as well as how to use it - it helps in giving you a basis on which to build skills (understanding vs. just knowing)

SEMI-PRO: if you're expecting a 1-2-3 how-to then this book MIGHT be disappointing. Sure it gives techniques and 1-2-3s but also it doesn't hold your hand

LIKE: it makes you THINK! I picked up enough to start with and apply across photographs. It gave me a toolbox (so to speak) with which to apply to different problems.

NOT LIKE/ CON: the color scheme and layout of some text/ graphic/ menu samples - Red + Yellow on Blue??? UGH! Seriously - I was distracted by the windows color scheme the authors used even if it was a very small part of the page layout...

COULD HAVE USED: follow ups and variations on techniques... after the technique on 1 type of photo/ problem, variations on them... for different what-if scenarios related to the original

OVERALL: a very good book that doesn't spoon-feed you and gives you enough tools to go at it on your own. Not for those with little knowledge or a fear of Photoshop or computers... this book needs you to be able to get out of your comfort zone and explore

you need this book for outstanding photoshop help
This is a great book. I've taken photoshop classes and have several Photoshop books, but these authors lay out some of the features of Photoshop that had remained a mystery to me. Clear text, great examples, i can't say enough about this book for Photoshop users, whether for underwater photography or otherwise -- beginner to moderately advanced -- it is hands down the best photoshop book I have ever seen.

Excellent source for Underwater Photographers
While this book does not offer the in depth of the latest techniques of Photoshop CS3 it is an excellent reference to address the most common problems.

great manual book
I have never used PS before. But with this detailed and step-by-step instructions of this book, I found PS is quite easy to handle. love it, recommended to those who are truly beginners like me! ... Read more

Product Description
With a focus on coral reefs, Underwater Eden illuminates the fantastic colors, array of textures, and countless bizarre shapes and forms of undersea life.

Beneath the surface of the world’s most exotic seas and oceans—from the Red Sea and the coast of Costa Rica to the Great Barrier Reef and Palau Islands—lie spectacularly diverse ecosystems that only a privileged few have had the opportunity to view up close and in person. Jeffrey Rotman has spent more than thirty years diving in these waters to capture their breathtaking beauty and the stunning richness and variety of the creatures that inhabit them. .

The book’s extended captions are written by Rotman and contain scientific facts and trivia interspersed with personal anecdotes and insights gained from decades of observation. Underwater Eden grants readers 365 days of unprecedented access into a strange and captivating world. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Beautiful book
I love these 365 books series, and this Underwater Eden one is not disappointing. Beautiful pictures of lovely and unusual creatures, etc. And got it at a great price. Can't beat that!

Not as great as Earth from Above
I love the Earth from Above so bought this thinking the photography level would be equivalent... but many of the photos lack that "wow" factor.

If you are looking for an interesting coffee table/guest room book, I would highly recommend the Earth From Above before this one.

This book is interesting... just not quite up to my expectations.

Wonderful work
As someone with the nickname "snorkelgeek" you know I don't take these kinds of books lightly!This is an amazing look into the undersea world that even those of us who snorkel, don't often see.There are creatures in this book that I never knew existed and am now excited about possibly seeing the next time I'm under water.

This book will be flipped through often enough to become dog-eared, I'm sure!Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
A comprehensive guide to digital underwater photography techniques, equipment, editing and artistry. Written by acclaimed underwater photographer and film maker, Jill Heinerth, the manual includes tips, secrets and remarkable stories from her expeditions around the world. Scuba divers of all levels of experience and background will enjoy this easy to understand, full-color handbook. Techniques are demonstrated using Jill's rich library of award-winning images. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Fantastic intorductory to underwater photography.
I am a photographer and have enjoyed photographing the cenotes in Mexico for the last couple years.I have to say that Mrs. Heinerths book is one of the best I have read in regards to explaining basic concepts of underwater photography. What makes this book fantastic is that the author explains concepts in an easy to understand manner which comes from her depth of knowledge in the field.Her writing is warm and sometimes self deprecating which is a nice change given the subject matter.

This is a brilliant book both for folks looking to dive into underwater photography and folks who have been doing it for awhile looking to gain a new perspective on the fundamentals.

From the Editor
As editor of this photography book, I must strongly disagree with Mr. Mixon's review, particularly his strong language. I wrote the worst photography book ever, back in 1988, while developing curriculum for my Basic Photojournalism Course at the prestigious U.S. Navy Schools of Photography. This book, by one of the world's top underwater photographers, is easy to understand, and indeed, written to reach a very elementary reader. It is not intended to be an academic treatment of all things and every discipline of underwater image making. It is a BASIC guide, in everyday language, peppered with charming anecdotes and brilliant images. Lighten up, no one's PhD. thesis is riding on this publication. On the other hand, if you desire straight talk from someone who actually makes a living as an underwater photographer, this is the book for you!

Great beginner's book!
I bought this book that coincidently came out about the time I bought my first underwater housing.It's a great beginning book for U/W photography.

I have a little background in photography, so I knew a certain amount of what is covered in the photography section.I knew a fair bit about digital images, but still I learned more useful stuff in this book.I knew almost nothing about U/W photography so I learned a number of helpful pointers about the challenges of shooting beneath the water's surface.

There are a few things that I would have liked better:I'm a geek and would have liked a some more details on technical matters.And, it's too bad that the book doesn't come on higher quality paper that would have made the excellent photos really snap.Otherwise, I really liked this guidebook.

The layout was great.It was nicely done with sidebars that seemed relevant to the topic.Perhaps my favorite part of the book were all the anecdotes Jill wrote about her experiences over the years as a professional photographer.They were extremely amusing!

If I were rating this as a Compendium of U/W I couldn't quite give it as high a score.But as a basic guide without being too overwhelming to beginners, I have to say it's terrific.

experts aren't necessarily good writers
The world's worst photography book, I hope. The graphic design and extremely elementary material suggest that the book was written for sixth-graders. The grammar and accuracy suggest it was written by one. Jill Heinerth is a very good underwater photographer, especially known for cave-diving photos. Some examples of her work are included in the book, not especially well presented on uncoated paper. It is often said that those who can't do, teach. It is sometimes true that those who can, shouldn't.

Excellent Guide to Digital Photography
I chose this book after looking for an affordable, comprehensive guide to digital underwater photography.Every scuba diver should own this book!Whether you are a point-and-shooter wanting to expand your skills or a veteran photographer, this guide has something for you.I found the sidebars particularly enjoyable as they added depth and personal insights to the expansive instructive material in the book. ... Read more

Product Description
From fundamental principles of photographing marine life to making a living selling underwater photographs, Successful Underwater Photography provides an unlimited wealth of practical advice, surefire strategies, and tested tips for taking extraordinary photos of elusive underwater subjects. Written by two top photographers who specialize in marine photography, this solid, lavishly illustrated field guide provides no-nonsense information on such topics as taking available-light photographs, silhouettes, marine wildlife portraits, close-focus wide angle photographs, and extension tube photographs to name just a few. Readers will also find proven guidance for purchasing underwater photographic equipment, taking photos of shipwrecks, and repairing and maintaining field equipment. Plus, 150 stunning, full-color photos demonstrate the authors’ successful techniques in action.For all aspiring underwater photographers who want to unlock the secrets of how top names in the field achieve spectacular results, Successful Underwater Photography is your definitive one-stop guide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

A MUST Read for Underwater Photography!
Whether still shooting film or SLRs, this book by Brian Skerry and Howard Hall should be in every U/W photographer's bookshelf, or along with their camera gear.It gives detailed, but uncomplicated, basics of how and why to get the best from your camera and strobes.Accompanied by diagrams and photos, Skerry and Hall go into the fundamentals of U/W photography, using their own prize winning photos to explain the how-to's with available light, strobes, how to eliminate (or greatly reduce) spatter, composition, exposure, bracketing, macro photography, and using wide angle lens.I did a week long course last year on a live aboard and wish I had read this book prior to that expensive trip.Now everything seems to have fallen into place, and even my surface photography has improved.Kudos!

few words about
It's really good book! I have had a lot of nice time when reading..
One remark, you should forget about pices of equipement. In book nothing about. But is really very expensive staff!! Author also practically wrtite nothing about diving equipement...
But as a handbook is really great!

Astounding!!!
Brian Skerry explains the fundamentals of underwater photography in a way anyone can understand.A great book for any aspiring underwater photographer!!!

Real pros at work in this book!
Worth owning just to see the beautiful photography within!Designed for the professional and avid amateur, this book is full of useful advice and discussions of such topics as: what happens to light underwater, shooting wildlife and people underwater, angle choices, and even suggestions on how to sell underwater photography.A great choice!

Underwater Photography
Excellent book for the beginner. It is well written, and concise. Plenty of great shots and how to take them. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Silver Springs collectable
Quality photographs and history of the uniquely awesome Silver Springs Florida in its heyday.Great memories for everyone who visited the Springs.

Quirky fun
This is not your typical underwater photography coffee table book!! It is a quirky collection of carefully-posed photographs taken for crowd-pleasing effect, made for publicity pictures and postcards at Silver Springs. The effects are variously surreal, amusing, risque and kitsch. The photographer Bruce Mozert spent an entire career thinking of wacky scenes to shoot, and some of the ideas are brilliant. It's also a testament to the photographer's professionalism and achievement in making the best of the practical constraints (shallow fresh water, breath-holding models, buoyancy). The photographer and the models obviously had a lot of fun doing it. It's great fun to read. There are no stunning world-class masterpieces of technique or artistry here, but there's a style that grows on you. And to my surprise, there are a couple of hidden gems about underwater photography technique. Most of all - you're supposed to enjoy it. ... Read more

Product Description
This work explains the techniques for underwater photography. The author describes his "Think and Consider" approach to photography, provides information on the selection of equipment, and offers advice on how to photograph shipwrecks, divers and fish, and on taking photographs for competitions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (36)

as good as I expected
This book includes well designed and documented subjects and photos which will guide you in your blue adventure

An invaluable resource for the field
Vivid underwater pictures have much that attracts viewers. "The Underwater Photographer" is the third edition of Martin Edge's advisory guide as she hopes to get readers started in this complex yet rewarding field. From suitable cameras for the job, the right filters, preparations for shots, rookie starting advice, and more. Serving as both a how to guide and a quick reference for veteran water photographers, Edge applies his work well, making "The Underwater Photographer" an invaluable resource for the field.

Fantastic Book for All Levels
I have been doing UW photography for about 8 years and diving over 35 years. I have read just about every book published on underwater photography--including Edge's third edition of this book. This edition is, by far, the best book written on the subject.

This book starts with all the fundamentals for someone just starting.For the intermediate/experienced photographer, it goes into more depth on Edge's own style. He does have some biases--as do all underwater photographers--and he does present them as such. However, he does state the more popular ideas/thinking on the same subjects.His biases should not be dismissed without trail or serious thought because he does have expertise in his subject.

One of the strengths of this book is that is written really for digital photography. Just about all the books published 3-5 years ago (including Edge's third edition of this book), were either written about underwater photography, in general (since the authors had little experience with digital) or were mixed film and digital. This book has nice chapters on work flow, digital manipulation in post shooting, and discussion of digital equipment--up-to-date.
As far as I'm concerned, it is THE book to have.

Grab the wetsuit and camera were going under water
In // The Underwater Photographer // Author Martin Edge walks the reader through camera settings including apertures, lighting, shutter speeds, mass storage devices etc. The truly helpful thing is that Edge also explains these functions and how they will effect an underwater shot.Edge gives the reader an idea of that equipment they will need and what purpose that equipment will do for you.

This book is filed with incredible underwater photography. Edge goes into detail about how these shots were created, and the kind of equipment that was used. Edge also includes the thought process behind that shot and he conveys this very well to the reader. The photos are in full color and beautiful. This book is a reference book but it could be used as a coffee table book just based on the photography.

From Chapter one: Principles of underwater photography to Chapter 12: developing a work flow system by Stuart Gibson, this book is a gold mine of information for the novice to intermediate underwater photographer.

Martin Edge clearly has the expertise and the writing style that make for a good easy to understand reference book. This reviewer very highly recommends this book.

Reviewed by Marc Fillipelli

Spectacular!
Since I read the third edition of this book six times, I bought the fourth with some reservations, thinking only a little would be new. I was dead wrong! The book has been entirely re-written and is -- once again to Martin Edge's credit -- simply the best book I have ever read on my passion, underwater photography. So if you've liked the third edition, get the fourth. You'll love it. ... Read more

Product Description
The fundamentals of photographing underwater are explained. Includes information on equipment, film, lighting, composition, and selling pictures. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

very basic
doesn't give any advice for seasoned photogs. Was looking for light placement...specifics of film ratings vs light position vs full or qtr power, etc for specific lenses/situations. Nothing there.

An excellent text for someone who already knows the basics.
The author does not include the basics of photography (f-stops, filmspeed, etc) in this text as other authors do.(For an excellent chapter onthe basics, see Jim Church's Essential Guide to Nikonos Systems.)Rather,the author intends this text for photographers with some experience.Iappreciated his opinions and reasoning.Rather than try and present alltypes of strobes, Norbert Wu states what he finds successful and why heuses them.Considering his list of accomplishments, I take hisrecommendations seriously. The chapter on films I found very helpful. The photo captions were great, too.I also liked that the book was veryto-the-point. Again, this text is not meant for a beginning photographer,but rather someone with a few frames under his weight belt.

Know basic underwater & land photo skills before reading.
Mr. Wu primarily covers the difference in the photographic requirementsunderwater as compared to land photography including the effects of using aspecific manufacturer's film.If your knowledge of photography basics isminimal you will be best served to grasp these elsewhere before readingthis concisely written book.He all but eliminates the clutter of thebasics.I felt he may have been too brief.It is definitely notexhaustive.I think that more examples of the various lenses available andtheir effects, camera manufacturers who make special cameras for thispurpose, and lighting requirements that exist underwater could have beenexpanded without going beyond the scope of the writer's intent.If youneed or want more detail, then this book is not for you.Overall, I thinkit's a good refresher book. ... Read more

Product Description
Pioneering underwater photographer Jim Church offers a clear cut approach to composition in this concisely written manual that will help all underwater photographers get better results. Packed into this book is more than three decades of practical experience making it a must-read for owners of all types of underwater cameras and housed cameras.

Some of the topics covered are: what attracts viewer’s eye; lenses and perspective; finding underwater subjects; basic wide-angle shots; shooting divers; quickie guide to modeling; composing close-ups; when to take the picture; isolating your subject; placing your subject in the picture; working with patterns; special lighting effects. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Still true today
It's a beautiful book, dedicated at the stage it was written to analogic photography, but with simple easy-to-learn concepts still today valid for good underwater photographies either on digital or analogic supports

Terrific underwater photos don't just "happen".
Jim Church was an astonishing photographer and those that have followed in his footsteps owe much to him. This book is one that I recommend to ALL divers starting off in underwater photography. Have you ever come home with a bunch of shots only to find that none of them really "grab you"?....this boom is for you. Simply and clearly, the text and photo examples show you how to turn an ordinary shot into a "Wow!" shot.

Start here and you can't go wrong
This is Jim Church's answer to those who say that you must have a "God given eye" to take great photographs. Jim is above all a teacher. His ability to bring complex ideas down to the level where a novice can comprehend is legendary. His method, rather unique in the world of underwater photography and videography, is not to show you great stuff and say "beat this", but to start with basic principles and work you through until you are automatically seeing the right solution to the situation before you. I would bet that any "name" underwater photographer if asked "where do I start?" would answer "pick up Jim Church's books and read them 3 or 4 times then get in the water.". This book, at less than the cost of 2 rolls of underwater film and developing, should be considered mandatory reading for anyone with a desire to take photographs (or video) underwater.

TIMELESS TEACHINGS
When I started in uderwater photography, I was told by a very wise and respected professional, "Composition cannot be taught ... it is not a concept or a method.The photographer is born with an eye for composition and it is an art."To which Jim Church's book has proven that statement to be "Hogwash, INDEED!"Composition may be a gift, but it is a gift that can be honed and trained, just as Jim Church has done with this book.He has given the reader all the tools, tricks and tips to develop that skill into an art.Liberally sprinkled with the Jim Church wit and humour, this book stands up to reading after reading after reading.This book stands alongside his "Guide to the Nikonos" and his "Underwater Video" books as "bibles" for the ardent underwater photographer.As for Jim Church's method of teaching and guidance, I can tell you that nine years ago I was using a disposable underwater camera.I have studied the books and travelled with Jim Church as often as possible and I am now a contributing editor and Photo Pro for an international dive magazine.So, if you ask me if Jim Church's methods work, I would resoundingly answer "YES."If you aks me if this is a book worth buying, I would answer resoundingly "YES!" No matter how many times you read this book and no matter what level of photographer you might be, there is always something new in this book that you can apply in your pursuit of great photos.These concepts of composition are NOT restricted to the ocean floor, either.The methods and concepts explained in this text --- in easy to understand terms --- also apply to land photography. This Essential Guide is exactly that---- ESSENTIAL!I regret that five stars is the highest rank offered for this book.The only thíng wrong with this book ---- it wasn't written sooner! I could have saved a lot of film on badly composed shots!!!!

"Something Here for Everyone"
People come to photography by many strange and varied routes and my own is as different as the next - though I shall not bore you with that particular story here.Suffice to say that, my first photograph was published in 1974, my first underwater photograph in 1980 and, right at this time, my work has appeared (somewhere) every month since December 1998, I am in the process of completing my fourth book and my photography has even been purchased by National Geographic.

The relevance of all this, however, is that I am largely self-taught and that always leaves me wondering if I am missing some of those basic lessons that would have been explained on the very first day of any professionally run photography course."Jim Church's Essential Guide to Composition" goes a long way to fill any gaps there might be.

This book has two outstanding qualities; Firstly, it is written by a man who really does know about every aspect of underwater photography.Secondly, and most important of all, however, Jim Church has the power to explain his knowledge in words we can all understand.In so doing he has produced a book for the professional underwater photographer and the amateur diver alike.If you have just bought your first camera and are about to embark on a very expensive trip to try it out, this is your in-flight reading material.Believe me, you will come home with better pictures - I did.

"Jim Church's Essential Guide to Composition" is a 9in x 6in paperback book containing 136 pages, 80 colour photographs and 8 line drawings.Each photograph and drawing serves a purpose and are used to explain each of the many lessons involved with composing underwater pictures and, basically, the difference between taking a good photograph and not.All of which is, of course, supported by the non-technical information imparted in an easy-to-understand style.

The book begins with absolute basics - and what could be more basic than explaining the function of the human eye and then adapting that information in order to provide a better understanding of the function of a camera lens.In short, this is a book about "stepping stones" and each time a relevant point has been explained and demonstrated, the book builds on this knowledge as we step forward onto another stone for even greater knowledge of the subject in hand.

In Summary, this is one of the few books I have ever read which achieves exactly and precisely what it sets out to achieve and is made all the more valuable because the Author is a man who knows his stuff and is able to explain things without getting bogged down in technical jargon.

Five Stars are not enough for this little gem.

NM ... Read more

Product Description
Discover the secrets of the world's best underwater photographers in 360 spectacular, image-filled pages in full color. Learn how you can shoot better underwater images thanks to technical tips and creative suggestions from the masters. Find out about rigorously field-tested digital and film techniques and u/w photo equipment, including lenses, strobes and camera systems. Unlock the hidden techniques which are behind imaginative framing and lighting to achieve new striking results. From wide-angle and fish-eye to macro photography, from fish portraits to above/below split images, from basic point-and-shoot digital pocket cameras to complex housed professional DSLR systems, from blue-water encounters to colorful coral reef diving and muck critter hunting, from daily maintenance to the choice of the right lens--it's all here! A highly-readable, technically-accessible, step-by-step guide in eight chapters to the secrets and wonders of underwater photography. 360 color photos. YOUR UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY WILL NEVER BE THE SAME AFTER READING THIS BOOK! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Breaking the Bounds: Motivation and Inspiration
This is a hefty and thoroughly illustrated tome, robustly bound and printed on high quality paper, which some beginners might find slightly intimidating at first (given that lofty "Art of" in its title, probably), but which in fact offers a wild, witty and exceptionally readable teaching course to...well, yes, to the "Art" of underwater photography. It's a wonderful and very personal step-by-step guide to one's inner artist which will instantly make a better photographer of all through its insightful texts and the absolutely mesmerizing works by several of the world's most influential underwater photographers. At the same time, it's a great, highly enjoyable, richly textured read which makes it stand out instantly from the true-and-tested crowd of bone-dry "how-to" technical guides, which are often as punctilious as they are completely uninspired (and uninspiring). But comparing the Ferraris' highly opinionated book to all the other, more technical manuals which abound on the market is quite naive and unfair - it's like apples and oranges. Light on tedious, oft-repeated technicalities and strong in uniquely practical, field-tested advice, this is a title which motivates and inspires via striking examples and clever comparisons - a book which shows you the basic rules and then teaches you to break them at will to obtain great, novel results in the process. One might call it the thinking diver's guide to underwater photography - it's aimed at those who have eyes (and a brain behind them!) and want to use them to create better images underwater. This comes after all from the authors who a few years ago conquered the coveted World Grand Prize in Antibes for their spectacular underwater photography work! Eye candy and food for thought in every page - I grant it five stars for being innovative, brilliant, well-written, splendidly illustrated and highly inspirational.

Great book - Diver Magazine
"This book serves beginners and advanced photographers well. The former will learn how to choose a system while the latter will find inspiration in thoughts on discipline and tenacity. All readers of this book will take something from the many images presented for your pleasure and education. If you are looking for f/stop and shutter speed you will not find it in this book. Instead, you will find ideas, concepts and discussion that will help you grow as a photographer".

Michel Gilbert & Danielle Alary
Underwater photography columnists, Diver Magazine (www.divermag.com)

Not That Good
I can't agree with the other reviewers of this book. But, that's probably because I have been a professional photographer most of my life and many of the basic composition, close-up and other photo issues this book deals with were learned many years ago for me. The "art" of photography is learned through doing and talent development. Books can only do so much and this one's way to expensive for what's offered.

The photography is pretty good. The quality of the printing is not. I have seen much better reproduction and print quality in other photography and diving publications that cost a third of this book's price. Many of the images are dark and flat. And that's probably not the fault of the photographer or their original images. It's poor print quality.

The few pertinent points that are discussed about the underwater photography methods and processes are helpful. But, anyone who would spend good money on expensive DSLRs, housings and underwater strobes is probably going to be pretty careful about who else handles them and how.

For beginning photographers, and/or those new to diving who want something to help them get into this activity further, this may be a book for you. Experienced photographers/divers may not find this book a worthy choice, as I have discovered.

Excellent education for new digital photographers
As I move my photography under water; I was seeking the knowledge of those who have gone before me. This book interested me because it is very recent with digital experience as well as film from the past. I am very pleased with the way this book has helped me up the learning curve and prepared me to shoot underwater images. Another point well made in the book is ETTL underwater. There are not too many people on the planet yet that are really doing this in my observation. The authors of this book have overcome the reluctance to believe in E or I TTL; just look at their images.

www.BrianHamptonPhotography.com

Another winner from the Ferraris
I recently had the chance to read this book. As with all the books by the Ferraris (of which I own several), this one is thoughtfully assembled, crammed with photos, and jammed with great tips. Of course, the images and the text are excellent, but there are other reasons to like it:

* I like how they explain what's good about the guest photographers' images. Rather than just say "Yes, another fascinating shot!" they take the time to explain it, so the rest of us, as we move along, can try to emulate.
* I like how they explain the rules of photography -- and then show they can be broken to great effect.
* I think comparing underwater photography to movie-making is a great idea. Everyone has seen movies they love and can recall some powerful scenes from them.

One small criticism: I disliked how the images broke up the text. I'd be reading along with the narrative, wholly immersed, and then I'd come up to a Guest Photographer shot. I never knew whether I should read the GP synopsis (and therefore forget what the teachings were) or skip ahead to finish the teachings and then flip back to the GP bits. Clearly, this was not a major pitfall by any stretch, but I would've liked to've seen all the GP shots between chapters, maybe -- so as to avoid this situation? Just a thought, and this is no reason not to read the book.

In total, the book is fantastically conceived and the images selected beautifully complement the teachings. It's a very dense book, though, and I know for my own part, it was somewhat intimidating to pick up and go through. In reality, it's dense mostly because it's thick with images -- not because it's thick with theory -- and is therefore far more accessible than you would believe by just looking at it. Though I'm going diving this weekend, it's merely a pleasure dive -- no camera -- but next time I do go diving with a camera, I'm going to go through the pages once more, to see how I can make my images pop. In the meantime, I plan to study the last topside shooting chapter so my general photos can be as amazing as theirs. ... Read more

Product Description
*200 color photos
* 15 color drawings
* 8 x 11
* Useful information for underwater photographers of all levels
* Brilliant full-color photographs throughout

"This book is set to become one of the few classic titles about underwater photography. It is packed with good advice."--Colin Doeg, Dive International magazine

This handsomely illustrated handbook provides a comprehensive guide to the basic techniques of underwater still photography and videography, including choosing the best equipment and using it to its full potential, solving technical challenges, and taking advantage of underwater conditions. Full-color diagrams, tables, and charts provide easy reference for exposure settings and composition.

Annemarie Khler is an underwater videographer who has spent many years researching tropical reefs and marine life behavior. Danja Khler is a qualified dive instructor for two international diving associations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Photographs alone are worth it
The photographic tips and lessons were helpful but what impressed me the most was the quality of the photographs.More than any other book on underwater photography I have read, I would like my underwater photographs to look like the ones contained in this book.In most other books on underwater photography I have read, by some of the most renowned photographers, although the text is helpful, the sample or example photos leave me thinking "Is this the best they can do?".Whereas in this book, the sample photographs are stunning, in composition, texture and sharpness - and are alone worth the price of the book.

Good, but only for Nikonos?? not Sea and Sea or others cams?
Maybe for those people that buy Nikonos cameras this book is Ok, but whathappenned with those who have Sea & Sea or others amphibians cameras??This book only explain how to use Nikonos cameras and show tables withaccessories of Nikonos, not others... In page 19: "For 90% of amateurphotographers, the Nikonos system is probably the best choice" maybethis was true in past time, but I'm sure that now this words are wrong,because Sea and Sea or others good cameras are bests buys and testerschoices...

In generals contents of UW Photography this book explain verygood from basics to professionals tips.

Excellent comprehensive guide
I bought this book having just purchased a Sea & Sea Motormarine 11-EX for a 2 week dive holiday in the Red Sea.For someone coming from land photography, the book explains the different principals, theories andtechniques of underwater photography very clearly with excellent visualguides. The proof of the success of the book was that office colleaguesactually wanted to see my holiday photos.

Excellent Buy!
I've been shooting underwater photos for 10 years and never have I read a book that so throughly explains the technology of cameras, and relates it so well to the underwater realm. The crew of the Turks and Caicos Aggressorliked it so much I gave Captain Piers a copy and have come back toAmazon.com for another for myself.

An indispensable literature for the underwater photographer
I did not expect too much when I purchased this book.To my surprise, I found the insights it contained very practical and indispensable, as I read through it.In fact, I plan to read it all over again.It is full of veryuseful information.It think the quality of this book mirrors the otherwork done by the authors.I'm going to get a copy of their other books onmarineadventures.I recommend it a 100%! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Good, not great
Good book but not as in depth as I had hoped.Martin Edge's book is still my favorite, looking forward to the fourth edition.

Look at the newer edition!
Amazon sells the exact same book (2007 printing) for cheaper than this version (I think the content is identical).See The Essential Underwater Photography Manual: A Guide to Creative Techniques and Essential Equipment

Beautiful ideas for photos
But this is mostly in Micronesia, Great Barrier and Red Sea, not much in Caribbean, however excellent info and worthwhile for the underwater photographing enthusiast.

Excellent
In my opinion this is the best modern book on underwater photography by a long way. It is clearly written, very informative, practical and inspiring. It covers an amazing amount of material in a concise and readable fashion. It is much more clearly written than The Underwater Photographer, Third Edition: Digital and Traditional Techniques and other popular competitors. It's the only photography book I find myself re-reading before I go on a dive trip. Highly recommended for readers with all levels of skill.

The "Ultimate" Underwater Photography...
As the subject suggests, this book should be titled Ultimate. Essential, yes, but where this book departs from the others on the subject is the chapter on Behavior, describing how to spot the critter's habits and make that part of the shot. Also excellent is the "How to Wow" chapter. Borrowing a page from Larry and Denise's seminars, this chapter explains how to add the "Pizzazz" that separates a good photo from an award winner. All the technical information is right on and very up to date with current digital technology as well as traditional film technics. Every underwater photographer needs this book! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An early classic.
In 1980 I was invited to enter the large marine arena in Hong Kong to photograph the resident Killer Whale called Hoi Wai. At that time, the only person of whom I had ever heard who had done something similar was Flip Schulke and I must have read and re-read that part of this book "Underwater Photography for Everyone" over a hundred times before finally going ahead. Eventually one of my resultant photographs went on to be used very prominently by National Geographic. Thanks Flip - I owe you one.

This is a classic book about underwater photography and, as such, is still able to provide valuable basic lessons that any aspiring underwater photographer would do well to learn. Yes there are sections on how to carry individual bulbs for your flash gun underwater. Flash Gun!, surely you mean Strobe?, I hear you say. The answer is no, I really do mean flash gun - of the sort which uses disposable bulbs which need to be changed underwater. But don't worry, strobes are also covered.

The point of mentioning the good old flash gun is simply because nobody ever does any more. Technology has moved on just as the flash/strobe unit has evolved and even our need for disposable batteries continues to decline. This book, however, was somewhat ahead of it's time and Flip Schulke did an excellent job of explaining his craft.

One star lost, however, for those pictures which show the diver standing on or hanging onto corals. Even in 1978 (when this book was first published) we did already know about that one.

NM

... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

best general underwater photo book i have
i have purchased many underwater photo books and this is my favorite . i also love jim church's guide to nikonos systems but the two should not be compared because they have a different subject matter. this book is geared more towards film systems than digital. the pictures are a great break from the usual because they are mostly from scotland and other less common areas. this book stands alone in its style. i was very impressed when i checked it out at a book store and had to have it. P.S. it was recently published and is modern in its content.

Outstanding introduction to marine photography
This is a very satisfactory book for three reasons: (1) The text is well written, no-nonsense, to the point, and technically accurate as far as I can tell, (2) the photographs are the best that I have seen so far and, more importantly, they complement the text, and (3) it emphasizes photography in temperate waters. Because I live in the temperate zone and cannot afford to casually visit tropical reefs, this aspect is particularly interesting. The only thing that I would improve in this book is to expand the discussion on evaluating mixed-light scenes (p. 141). From my land experience, this makes or breaks a photograph. Because this book assumes little or no prior knowledge of photography, this is a point worth emphasizing. Also, I find incident light meters indispensable on land, are they usable in underwater photography? Overall, this book is a great value. ... Read more