Connect with us
background

News

Announcing the winner of Scubaverse.com’s Photo of the Year 2015

Published

on

It’s exciting times here at Scubaverse.com, as the photo of the year 2015 is about to be announced.

Just in case you haven’t been following our monthly photography competitions, the rules are quite simple: any underwater photographer can enter. You can submit up to three pictures each month. This can be wide angle or macro and taken on any camera, compact or DSLR. The pictures can be recent or taken several years ago. It’s also really nice if the photographer can add a brief description explaining where the picture was taken, camera settings etc. This helps me understand how and why you took the picture in the first place.

At the end of each month I ‘simply’ choose a winner from all the entries. I’m not biased in any way, and it’s judged on a variety of factors, including composition, subject, level of difficulty etc. I also look at the technical aspects like focus, lighting, contrast and post editing skills. I honestly didn’t realise how tough this job would be – there were so many stunning images submitted in 2015.

The winning photographer gets his/her picture displayed on Scubaverse.com’s homepage for the duration of the month, wins a £100 voucher towards a Scuba Travel Red Sea liveaboard workshop with Duxy, and gets a copy of Vivid-Pix’s excellent post editing software. The winning picture also appears in our Photo of the Month Winners Gallery and is used as the background image on Scubaverse.com’s Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Tumblr pages.

In addition to all this, each month’s winning picture is also entered into our Photo of the Year Contest. The winner of Photo of the Year will pick up some serious prizes – over £1,000 worth of dive gear – donated by Mares, one of the world’s leading diving equipment manufacturers, and a further £150 voucher off a Red Sea liveaboard photo workshop with Duxy, courtesy of UK-based dive tour operator Scuba Travel.

Because we only began the monthly competitions in March last year there are a total of 9 pictures this time around (we also missed May due to the site having a major redesign).

So if you didn’t know about the competition rules and the prizes, now you do!

If you are wondering why I have been asked by Dave, the editor of Scubaverse.com, to judge your pictures, well in brief I have been working in the diving industry for more than 25 years. I started out as a diving instructor running recreational and technical courses and was then introduced to underwater photography. I have managed my own photography business at Taba Heights in Egypt, owned a retail shop in the UK and regularly write articles and take underwater photographs for magazines. I hope this gives me some credibility to judge your pictures.

For Photo of the Year we have invited some other well-known underwater photographers to be on the judging panel. I didn’t think it would be fair for me to choose a winner on my own. I also didn’t want anyone to think the result had been rigged!!! As we are giving away a £100 voucher for Duxy’s Red Sea liveaboard photography workshops each month it’s only right that we ask him to be on the panel. Nick Robertson-Brown, who owns Frogfish Photography with his wife Caroline and who also writes regularly for Scubaverse.com, completes the esteemed line up.

Duxy, Nick and I individually looked at each picture and chose a top three. From the top three images we then thrashed it out until we finally agreed on one overall winner.

I’m very pleased to announce that the winner of Scubaverse.com’s Photo of the Year 2015 is Sean Chinn’s turtle picture titled ‘sunbathing’. This is a superb wide angle image of a green turtle sitting on the reef at Sipadan Island in Malaysia. I really liked the angle at which Sean took the picture (below the subject and shooting upwards), the reef looks healthy and there’s lots going on in the background including clouds and sunshine. Well done Sean, I hope to see more of your images in 2016.

I would like to give a huge thank you to Mares for providing the superb prize, not forgetting Scuba Travel and Vivid-Pix for the monthly donations. I’m sure 2016 is going to be bigger and better. Judging by the amount of entries in January’s competition I’m going to have my work cut out!

You can enter Scubaverse.com’s Photo of the Month Contest here. The contest generally runs from the 5th to the 25th of each month.

Stuart has spent the past 26 years taking pictures and writing stories for diving magazines and other publications. In fact, this equates to more than a year of his life spent underwater. There have been plenty of exciting moments from close encounters with crocodiles and sharks to exploration of deep wrecks and more recently rebreathers. He lives in Poole, Dorset and is very much an advocate of UK diving.

Gear News

Introducing the SP Neoprene Suit from DYNAMICNORD

Published

on

wetsuit

Maximum freedom of movement and outstanding comfort

wetsuitThe SP series neoprene suits deliver incredible diving comfort to even the most demanding divers. Fabulous style included. Designed and engineered in Germany.

The smart 3D cut and the pre-shaped arms and legs not only ensure flexibility and a perfect fit, but also help you slip into the suit with ease. Cuffs on the arms and legs guarantee perfect sealing, which is further enhanced by the flap on the back zipper.

Zippers at the wrists and ankles provide additional comfort and ensure easy donning and doffing. The small neck zipper adds another layer of comfort.

The neoprene ribs in the back of the knees and crook of the arms are unique. The clever concept ensures optimum comfort when bending the arms or legs.

wetsuitShoulder and knee protectors protect the suit in high-wear areas. The small computer safety strap holds the device in place. The SP suit series is available for men and women in 5 & 7mm and offers a wide range of sizes including numerous intermediate sizes.

Every day, DYNAMICNORD works to keep its environmental impact as low as possible. Only the best available neoprene is used for the SP series of neoprene suits. It goes without saying that the neoprene is made from limestone. It is sourced from nature and has less negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, Carbon Black, one of the main components of neoprene, is pyrolysed from used tires. This reduces energy consumption and cuts CO₂ emissions by 200 grams per neoprene suit. Innovative dyeing machines reduce water and energy consumption during production by 60%.

DYNAMICNORD’s R&D department is constantly testing recycled materials and other next-generation sustainable components to become even more eco-friendly in all areas.

The different models in the SP series are now available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.

SRPs incl. VAT:

SP suit 7mm: £504.00

SP suit 5mm: £440.00

Sizes:

Women: XS-2XL, ST, MT, LT, M+, L+, XL+, 2XL+

Men: S-3XL, MT, MLS, ML, MLT, LS, LT, XLS, XLT, 2XLS

DYNAMICNORD – Your Outdoor Companion.

www.dynamicnord.com

Continue Reading

Blogs

Jeff Goodman Launches Underwater Moviemaker Course with NovoScuba

Published

on

underwater videography course

Transform Your Dive Experiences into Cinematic Masterpieces

NovoScuba has partnered with acclaimed underwater filmmaker Jeff Goodman to introduce the Underwater Moviemaker Course—a revolutionary program designed to equip divers with the skills to capture the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world.

Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, an avid diver, or a photography enthusiast, this course offers the tools and expertise needed to create stunning underwater videos. From vibrant coral reefs to curious marine life, you’ll learn how to film, edit, and produce captivating underwater stories, all with expert guidance from a seasoned professional.

Jeff Goodman: A Legacy in Underwater Filmmaking

Jeff Goodman brings over 40 years of experience in underwater film production for television to this course. Reflecting on his career, Jeff said:

“Although technology has dramatically changed, the basics of underwater filming remain constant. This course covers crucial skills for producing great videos. Whether you’re creating professional broadcast films or high-quality hobby videos, the fundamental principles are the same.

A camera operator must master their equipment to capture those magical underwater moments effortlessly. But beyond technical know-how, underwater filmmaking is about having fun and enhancing your diving experiences. So, take your time, learn at your own pace, and enjoy this creative journey.”

About NovoScuba

Founded in 2023, NovoScuba is reshaping dive education with a comprehensive, digitally native platform. Offering cutting-edge training programs for divers at all levels, NovoScuba sets a new benchmark in the diving industry by combining innovation with accessibility.

With ISO-certified courses, a student subscription model, and multilingual support, NovoScuba ensures that dive education is inclusive and engaging. More than just a training provider, NovoScuba fosters a global community of divers committed to exploration, collaboration, and sustainability.

Join the NovoScuba Underwater Moviemaker Course Today!

Dive into the world of underwater filmmaking and start creating cinematic stories that inspire. Learn more about the course and enroll today at www.novoscuba.com/novoscuba-underwater-moviemaker-course.

EXCLUSIVE: Jeff Goodman interviews Mark Spiers, CEO of New Scuba Diving Training Agency NovoScuba

NovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!

The diving world thrives on passion and adventure, but for many dive store owners, the financial and operational challenges can be as deep as the ocean.

NovoScuba, an emerging force in the diving world, is on a mission to transform this landscape for the better. With a revolutionary approach to dive store and training agency partnerships, NovoScuba is setting new standards for how dive stores can thrive while keeping their focus on delivering exceptional diving experiences.

underwater videography course

A New Paradigm: NovoScuba’s Bold Mission

NovoScuba’s mission is straightforward yet profound: to disrupt the traditional dynamics between dive store owners and training agencies. Traditionally, dive stores have been subjected to substantial fees charged by training agencies, for membership, materials and certifications. These costs have often placed a heavy financial burden on store owners, cutting into their profits and limiting their ability to offer competitive prices to customers.

NovoScuba flips the script by offering a model where dive stores earn money, instead of paying high fees. Dive stores receive commissions for every student they register, and their certification costs are covered. This new model not only boosts profitability but also ensures clients get top-quality training at unbeatable prices.

Financial Upsides: Earn From Student Registration

NovoScuba’s approach is simple yet revolutionary. Dive stores partnering with NovoScuba can earn commissions for every student they enroll.

Here’s how it works: For every student enrolled through NovoScuba, dive stores receive a commission. Each student enrolled will receive their e-learning materials and certification credit included in their subscription. This arrangement is a significant departure from the traditional model, where dive stores often struggle to manage high overhead costs related to training fees and certification expenses.

underwater videography course

NovoScuba’s approach ensures that dive stores can focus on what they do best—providing top-notch diving experiences—without being bogged down by excessive financial burdens, and the need to carry large stocks of materials.

Quality Training at a Great Price

NovoScuba stands out by offering high-quality, ISO certified, training that doesn’t break the bank, in fact our students will pay less than with most competing agencies. Clients benefit from top-notch education and safety standards at competitive prices. Dive store owners can confidently promote NovoScuba’s programs, knowing they’re offering fantastic training at affordable rates. This balance of quality and affordability helps dive stores build a strong reputation and attract more customers.

Your Brand is Your Business: NovoScuba’s Commitment to Showcasing Your Identity

At NovoScuba, we understand that your brand is your most valuable asset, and we’re committed to putting it front and centre. Unlike agencies that charge high fees to promote their own brand, we believe in investing in yours. With NovoScuba, you won’t be paying to advertise someone else’s logo alone, — our focus is on showcasing your unique identity. Certifications prominently feature your brand, as well as the training agency, reinforcing your store’s image and brand every step of the way. We’re here to support and elevate your brand, ensuring that your investment directly benefits your business.

Affordable Membership: An Investment in Your Success

NovoScuba’s membership model is designed with dive store owners in mind. Membership fees are kept low and include annual Pro member fees for your team. Payment can be made monthly or annually in your local currency, avoiding the hassle of exchange rate fluctuations. NovoScuba promises no exchange rate changes without a six-month notice, ensuring financial stability and simplifying budgeting. With a membership lasting 12 months from date of joining, you’ll enjoy a full year of NovoScuba’s benefits and support.

underwater videography course

Streamlined Operations: Simplifying Your Workload

Handling administrative tasks can be a challenge, but NovoScuba makes it easier. We’ve streamlined certification procedures and reduced paperwork to help dive stores operate more efficiently. Certification processing is quick and straightforward, allowing more focus on teaching and customer service. Our system minimises bureaucracy by storing necessary forms in student profiles, reducing paperwork and administrative delays.

Crossover Made Easy

For dive stores looking to transition to NovoScuba’s model, the crossover process is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. NovoScuba provides support to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible, helping dive store owners integrate into the new system with minimal disruption. Experienced dive Pros don’t need to undergo extensive retraining. Our crossover is designed to familiarise Pros with NovoScuba’s user-friendly platform, standards and course structures, and not to waste time and expense re-training in water.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to offer top-notch training through NovoScuba.

Comprehensive Business Support and Training Included in Your Membership

NovoScuba goes beyond financial benefits by offering experienced support and training. This value added service includes:

  • Business Training: Optimise your operations with guidance on marketing, customer service, and best practices.
  • Marketing and Promotion: Access resources to attract new customers and boost your store’s visibility. Enjoy cross promotions with NovoScuba to gain increased exposure.
  • Ongoing Support: NovoScuba’s commitment to its partners extends beyond initial training and setup. The company offers ongoing support to address any issues or questions that arise. This continuous support ensures that dive store owners have a reliable resource to turn to whenever they need assistance.

underwater videography course

Embracing Digital Natives: Instant Evolution and Continuous Improvement

NovoScuba’s digital-native approach is a game-changer. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, we ensure our services evolve and improve swiftly. Dive stores benefit from instant updates, the latest features, enhancements, and effective solutions, keeping them ahead of the curve. This continuous improvement helps dive stores stay competitive and deliver exceptional services. Whether it’s a new course update, additional marketing resources, or improved e-learning functions, NovoScuba’s digital infrastructure ensures that dive stores are always equipped with the most current and effective solutions. This continuous evolution not only helps dive stores stay ahead in a competitive market but also ensures they consistently provide top-quality services to their clients.

Why Is NovoScuba Doing This? – Fair Profit Sharing for Greater Access and Growth

At NovoScuba, we’ve taken a bold step by paying commissions to stores rather than following the traditional model of training agencies charging high fees. Our mission is to make diving accessible to everyone and to foster a growing community of new divers and continued education. By redistributing profits more equitably between stores and training agencies, we aim to create a more supportive and collaborative environment within the industry. We believe this approach not only helps individual stores thrive but also stimulates overall growth and innovation in diving. Our commitment to fair profit sharing reflects our dedication to the long-term health and expansion of the diving community.

underwater videography course

Everyone is getting a piece of the pie.

Getting Started: Join the NovoScuba Revolution

Ready to revolutionise your dive store experience? NovoScuba is here to support your journey toward reduced costs, increased profitability, and enhanced operational efficiency. Get in touch with our team to learn how NovoScuba can transform your business.

For more information, email info@novoscuba.com or visit www.novoscuba.academy.

Continue Reading

E-Newsletter Sign up!

Instagram Feed

Shortcode field is empty!Shortcode field is empty!

Popular