The Recipe For Success: A Focused Mind, Camera and Dive

In a recent episode of The Underwater Photography Show we called "Diving For Images", we emphasized that a focused approach to underwater photography is the key to both better images and a more rewarding diving experience. We've found that trying to capture every subject on a single dive is not the path to success. A more specialized, goal-oriented approach is what truly yields superior results.

We’ve seen it time and time again: the diver with a camera who tries to photograph everything they see often ends up with a collection of mediocre pictures [0:45]. This "scattergun" method, driven by a desire to document everything, ultimately results in a portfolio of uninspired photos. Instead, we believe that as a photographer, you should shift your mindset from being a "diver with a camera" to a "photographer who dives" [2:53]. This means actively seeking out a specific type of shot, working the subject thoroughly, and being patient enough to wait for the perfect moment.

The Power of a Focused Mindset

For us, a focused mindset is the most crucial skill an underwater photographer can develop [7:14]. These aren't technical skills, but rather behavioral ones, such as knowing how to approach a subject without startling it, developing an eye for a great shot, and the patience to wait for the right moment. This deliberate, thoughtful approach is the opposite of the rushed feeling of trying to capture every subject. By concentrating on a single goal for a dive, you can hone these behavioral skills, leading to a much higher hit rate of truly stunning photos. This approach also makes the dive more enjoyable, as you aren't constantly battling a complex gear setup or the pressure of having to capture everything.

The "Christmas Tree" Problem and Simplified Gear

One of the key things that gets in the way of a focused approach is an overly complicated camera setup. We call this the "Christmas tree," a rig weighed down with multiple strobes, focus lights, and other accessories that are often unnecessary for the specific shots being pursued [3:54]. Such a setup is cumbersome to maneuver, can be a mental distraction, and ultimately gets in the way of capturing the perfect shot. Our solution is simple: simplify your gear. Before a dive, decide on your goal (e.g., macro or wide-angle) and only bring the essential gear needed for that specific purpose [4:26]. This allows for better handling of the camera, a clearer mind, and a more focused photographic effort.

The Two-Camera Dilemma

We've also seen people try to solve the macro-vs-wide-angle problem by simply bringing two cameras on a single dive, but we strongly advise against it [10:08]. We've found that carrying two cameras makes a photographer less productive with both. Constantly switching between cameras is a distraction, especially for less experienced divers, and it increases the risk of damaging or losing equipment [11:53, 16:01]. A photographer with two cameras will likely return with a series of average shots from both, rather than a few exceptional ones from a single, focused camera. Our message is clear: choose your purpose for the dive and stick with it. The risk of losing an expensive camera at a new dive site is also a major concern that makes this approach unappealing.

Conclusion

Our central message is that success in underwater photography is not about having the most expensive or complicated gear, but about developing a focused mindset. By simplifying your equipment, setting a clear goal for each dive, and honing the crucial behavioral skills of patience and observation, you can transform your diving from a "diver with a camera" to a "photographer who dives." This shift in perspective leads to a greater sense of purpose, a more enjoyable dive, and, most importantly, a portfolio of truly stunning and impactful images.

Watch the full episode below if you would like to hear our entire discussion.