Underwater Bullies

Bret Gilliam, a veteran industry executive, once told me that divers eventually either get bored and stop diving once they have "seen everything" or they become underwater photographers.

I once owned a large underwater camera rig, but eventually I realized that I preferred using my time to observe and interact with marine animals rather than fuss with my camera to capture "the perfect shot." I sold it and started enjoying diving again. While I have no problem with divers taking pictures, I do object to those who think that other divers deserve no more than a passing glance at a critter before they must make way for the photographer to get his shot. We had one such guy on this trip. An interesting and polite fellow when not diving, underwater he transmogrified into an annoying bully. Once when he elbowed his way between my buddy and the pygmy sea horses he was looking at, my companion gently pushed him away. Responding to the bully's outraged expression, he motioned that he was not done yet. For me, capturing memories takes time too.

Some dive guides pay less attention to clients without cameras, pointing out critters mainly to photographers. I have a simple solution for that. Like some photographers, I present guides with my own spotting wish list. Try it. You will be surprised how it focuses their minds.

- DTV