Dear Ben,
I read your review of the Rocio del Mar in last month's
issue, and I had to smile. The writer's description of
Mr. Hyde, the overzealous underwater photographer,
is unfortunately quite common. I agree that liveaboards
should separate photographers from non-photographers
when it is safe and feasible. This would perhaps improve
all divers' experiences.
I am an avid underwater photographer, and I
clearly agree that there are "sharing" issues under
the sea. It is very hard not to rush to get photos when
something spectacular arises, yet the best pictures will
often come later, when most divers move on to the
next turtle, ray or sponge. Many times, we all forget to
slow down underwater.
While many divers feel compelled to follow the
guide to the point that they only see bubbles and fins, I usually follow behind and take my time. There are few
times when anyone even cares what I am framing. Large
animals can be viewed from many different angles, and
they often want to leave the crowd anyway. Small critters
are different. I have seen divers using magnifying
lenses to improve their view. This also has the effect of
"staking one's ground," and can deter an unaware photographer
from crowding the subject.
Over the years, I have seen too many arguments over
sharing, and I now dive solo or nearly solo when I can
get away with it. Most good pictures come near the surface
and take time to compose. The surface is close and
the lighting is better. I now actually look at subjects more
when I am alone. A great picture takes time and contemplation,
not to mention less backscatter.
I realize that solo diving is often shunned or criticized,
but eventually we need to grow up and realize we
are responsible for ourselves underwater. It helps to let
the crowd move on. I prefer to dive alone, just as I prefer
to walk in the woods alone.
- - Mark Etter, Lititz, PA