Connect with us
background

Photo / Video News & Reviews

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.

Blogs

The Benefits of Underwater Photography Workshops

Published

on

underwater photography workshop

Are you just getting started out in underwater photography or are you a seasoned shooter who wants to take their images to the next level? Whatever you experience or ability, here’s an overview of underwater photography workshops.

What is an Underwater Photography Workshop?

The first thing to note is that this is not ‘school’! There are no compulsory classes and at workshops you are free to pick and choose what you take part in, or otherwise.

A huge part of learning and developing your skills is through experimentation, trial and error, responding to feedback, and honing your technique. Underwater photography workshops provide you with the perfect platform for practice and improvement.

There is no better alternative to hands on experience in an environment that is 100% dedicated to your development. Reading informative articles and watching videos on YouTube can never replace the value of one on one time with your camera rig, underwater!

Underwater photography workshops are generally structured around core components, namely: presentations, underwater practice, feedback and critique sessions, troubleshooting/one-on-one sessions, and technical support.

Other components of a workshop include dining, relaxing, and time for socializing too!

underwater photography workshop

What Topics do Underwater Photography Workshops Cover?

Depending on the pro, the type of workshop and regional diving highlights, a wide range of topics may be covered from composition and lighting through to shooting techniques and editing.

Benefits of an Underwater Photography Workshop

  1. Improve Your underwater photography
  2. Learn from professionals
  • Learn from other participants
  1. Expand your photography knowledge and understanding
  2. Try put new techniques
  3. Learn how to maximize your camera rig
  • Phenomenal travel opportunities
  • Memorable experience and new friendships

underwater photography workshop

Underwater Photography Workshops in the Lembeh Strait, Indonesia

When it comes to underwater photography workshops that focus on shooting macro, muck diving, and unusual marine species, there can be no better destination on the planet than the Lembeh Strait.

The Critter Capital of the World, a Muck Diving Mecca, and the Twilight Zone are just a few of the names that have been given to this stretch of water over the years due to its high density, and diversity, of rare and unusual marine life.

Some of Lembeh’s most iconic species include the hairy frogfish, Pontohi pygmy seahorse, the Lembeh sea dragon, Mandarin fish, Bobbit worms, Rhinopias scorpionfish, flamboyant cuttlefish, tiger and harlequin shrimps, ornate ghost pipefish, harlequin crabs, and where do we start with octopus? Here’s just a few… wunderpus, mimic, blue ring, hairy, long arm, starry night, and coconut… and the list goes on!

Dive conditions in the Lembeh Strait can be extremely favourable for underwater photographers. There is little to no current making both moving around and remaining stationary a breeze. The comfortably warm water temperatures reduce the cold that can also set in when not on the move.

Lembeh Resort and Underwater Photography Workshops

Lembeh Resort not only offers luxury accommodation in the Lembeh Strait but it is also offers a complete suite of facilities for underwater photographers and enthusiasts. Here is a ‘snapshot’ of the camera and imaging services that are on offer at Lembeh Resort – inside and outside of underwater photography workshops:

Photography Facilities

Lembeh Resort offers a suite of facilities for underwater photographers, including:

  • The only Backscatter Authorized Photo Center in Asia
  • Photo Center offering camera, housing, lights and accessory rentals and purchases, onsite repairs, onsite 3D printing of small components, professional support and assistance, full workshop support
  • Full time onsite Photo Pro
  • Full time onsite Marine Biologists
  • Marine biology and underwater photography trained Dive Guides
  • Spacious camera room with individual work spaces, lights, and power points
  • Varied diving options including single dives in the Lembeh Strait, two or three tank dive trips, day trips to Bangka, east coast Lembeh trips, blackwater, bonfire, night, and Mandarin fish dives.

underwater photography workshop

Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop 2025

The renowned Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop is back in January 2025 for the 12th year running!! This unique workshop is hosted by not one but three worldclass photo professionals. The 2025 workshop features: Ron Watkins (USA), Paul Duxfield (UK), and Renee Capozzola (USA). The week-long workshop promises to be packed with incredible diving, Pro presentations, and one-on-one instruction and feedback.

2025 Workshop Schedule and Dates:

  • Pre-Workshop: January 8th10th (time to relax and unwind after traveling and enjoy some of Lembeh’s famous dive sites.)
  • Workshop: January 11th – 17th (Capturing Critters in Lembeh 12th Annual Workshop)
  • Workshop Extension: January 18th – 19th (Additional Day Workshop Extension)
  • Post-Workshop: January 20th – 21st (Stay additional nights and enjoy extra diving days or some time to relax and explore more of North Sulawesi)

Find Out More:

Meet the pros and find out more about the Capturing Critters in Lembeh 2025 underwater photography workshop, including prices and workshop inclusions, here:

https://www.lembehresort.com/featured/capturing-critters-in-lembeh-underwater-photography-workshop-2025/

If you are ready to book your place on the January 2025 Capturing Critters in Lembeh Underwater Photography Workshop – contact Lembeh Resort at: reservations@LembehResort.com.

Continue Reading

News

Meet Insta360 Ace Pro 2: Redefining Action Cameras With Unrivaled 8K Image Quality & Smarter AI

Published

on

insta360

Insta360 is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its Ace series, Insta360 Ace Pro 2. This groundbreaking wide-angle action camera delivers unparalleled image quality, smarter, easier capture powered by AI, upgraded audio, and an improved rugged design made for action at its most extreme.

Co-engineered with Leica, it delivers serious performance upgrades with the industry-first dual AI chip and state-of-the-art imaging courtesy of a new 1/1.3″ 8K sensor and Leica SUMMARIT lens with a 157º field of view. Creators can experience smoother videos with higher frame rates at 8K30fps and 4K60fps Active HDR, PureVideo for excellent low light performance, a bigger 2.5″ flip touchscreen and more.

The action camera utilizes Insta360’s advanced AI technology to offer a smarter experience from shooting to sharing. Innovative functions like the option to pause or cancel a recording, gesture and voice control, Auto Edit, and AI Highlights Assistant completely transform the experience for creators. With no more complex workflows, anyone can experience a simpler way to film and spend more time immersed in the moments they love.

insta360

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 significantly improves on its design, offering a more rugged, reliable action camera. Its waterproofing has increased to 39ft (12m), and it offers crystal-clear audio with an integrated Wind Guard and a removable Lens Guard to handle whatever you throw at it, providing full flexibility for action and sports enthusiasts.

“Our goal was to refine and enhance the groundbreaking features of the original Insta360 Ace Pro to deliver an unparalleled experience,” says JK Liu, founder of Insta360. “We are confident these upgrades establish a new industry standard. Not only do they bring significant advances in AI, they empower creators to capture what was always impossible with other action cameras, opening the door to unprecedented creative potential.”

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available to order today worldwide via Insta360.com, as well as trusted retailers and select authorized partners.

Unparalleled Image Quality, Day and Night

The Leica SUMMARIT lens immediately sets it apart from competitors with its state-of-the-art image quality. Combined with an upgraded 1/1.3″ 8K sensor offering 13.5 stops of dynamic range, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 delivers simply breathtaking visuals in situations other action cameras simply can’t handle.

Further contributing to its image quality and performance is the industry-leading dual-chip design. Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the first action camera with a dedicated Pro Imaging Chip that handles image processing and noise reduction, while a separate 5nm AI Chip handles further image processing and overall camera performance, providing a smooth, seamless user experience. The dual chip also enables more shooting modes and higher specifications, such as 8K30fps video, 4K60fps Active HDR (High Dynamic Range), and upgraded PureVideo. Even in fast-moving motion and high-intensity action, creators can enjoy smooth, sharp videos thanks to the higher frame rates or slow it all the way down with crisp 4K120fps slow motion.

A complex, custom-trained AI neural network underpins PureVideo, a specialized shooting mode that drastically reduces noise and enhances details in real time for cleaner, brighter images, even in extreme low light. Whether it’s twilight strolls or evening rides, creators can record what they never could before. For the daytime, upgraded 4K60fps Active HDR brings out all the details in intense highlights and shadows for more vibrant footage. Meanwhile, a wider 157° lens FOV captures more of the surroundings, perfect for vlogging or when the scenery really matters.

Exclusive Leica-engineered color profiles infuse footage with their signature aesthetic, adding a touch of elegance to every shot. Insta360’s devotion to color accuracy is seen elsewhere with Insta360 Ace Pro 2’s ability to retain rich and precise colors, even underwater.

Ready for Action Anytime, Anywhere

The upgraded design proves to be even more rugged, ready for when you ramp up the action. Waterproofing has increased to 39 feet (12 meters) or 197 feet (60 meters) with the Dive Case, and it handles temperatures as low as -4ºF (-20ºC) with ease, perfect for winter sports and extreme climates.

The new, removable Lens Guard provides greater all-around protection, meaning creators can feel confident to push the limits further and capture the impossible, knowing their action cam is up to the challenge.

An all-new Wind Guard keeps wind and noise at a minimum during those peak moments, ready to snap on and off as you need. With refreshed audio algorithms bringing professional-grade clarity to your content, you can immerse your viewers like never before. What’s more, the magnetic mounting system lets you seamlessly switch between accessories. Less time spent unscrewing and screwing your camera and mounts, more time in the moment.

Insta360’s leading FlowState Stabilization technology ensures videos remain incredibly smooth no matter what, while 360º Horizon Lock, now applied automatically in-camera, keeps everything perfectly level. Prioritizing performance and convenience, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 sports a bigger 1800mAh battery and a new Endurance Mode that offers a 50% longer runtime at 4K30fps than Insta360 Ace Pro. Fast charging powers the battery to 80% in 18 minutes or 100% in 47 minutes, so you can get back to the action quicker.

Insta360 has expanded its compatibility with several top third-party sports accessories, allowing action and sports enthusiasts to add a new level of detail. For data-rich videos, overlay real-time stats from third-party sports brands, including Garmin, Apple, COROS, and more. Alternatively, users can add stats from their phone directly in the Insta360 app without any extra gear or use the GPS Preview Remote for easy live preview, remote control, and real-time GPS data. For moto vloggers, pair Insta360 Ace Pro 2 with your motorcycle helmet headset from Sena, Cardo, and more for clear dual-track audio and hands-free control every ride.

Made for those who demand the highest standard of action capture, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers the perfect combination of durability and high-quality performance to capture life’s thrills with confidence.

insta360

Smarter, Easier Capture & Editing

Insta360 Ace Pro’s flip touchscreen proved an essential and convenient tool for creators and has been further upgraded to 2.5 inches. With a 70% increase in pixel density, a 6% increase in brightness and a 100% increase in flip durability, it allows for perfect framing and easier preview for vlogging, selfies, and difficult angles, all while remaining visible under bright sunlight. Instead of guessing if your shot looks perfect, you can shoot with confidence, knowing it is.

Internally, Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers innovative solutions to problems that have hindered action enthusiasts for years:

  •   4K Clarity Zoom – Want a close-up but the image quality becomes too grainy? Zoom in and out 2x without losing quality.
  •   Pre-Recording – Never miss a moment with up to 120 seconds of footage saved before you even hit record.
  •   Gesture & Voice Control – Use quick hand signals or verbal commands to control the camera, such as start/stop recording or take a photo, ideal if it’s mounted out of reach.
  •   Pause/Resume Recording – Got time between shots? Hit pause and continue recording when you need to keep everything in one continuous file for easier file management and editing.
  •   Timecode – Seamlessly synchronizes multiple cameras for an efficient editing workflow.

Insta360’s revolutionary AI features demonstrate a commitment to making shooting and editing as accessible as possible. Anyone, regardless of their skill level, will be amazed at what they can create. For those who aren’t confident editing, AI Highlights Assistant automatically finds the best moments from a video and delivers the highlights for review, all in-camera. Creators can merge every thrilling moment into one incredible recap or choose the ones their favorites and delete any unwanted clips to save storage.

The Assistant also helps craft your next reel from your adventures and pushes it directly to your smartphone via the Insta360 app. Look back on all your Memories and share those unforgettable moments in seconds.

Acting as a full editing suite in your pocket, the Insta360 mobile app fully embraces the game-changing possibilities of AI with advanced Auto Editing, one-tap templates and creative Shot Lab effects. Instead of spending hours learning complex tools and editing workflows, AI does it all for you, bringing your clips to life with dynamic cuts and transitions. Creators can even achieve the infamous Invisible Selfie Stick effect with the AI Selfie Stick Eraser in the app for third-person views. Looking for a real twist? AI Warp uses preset or custom keywords to bring your wildest ideas to life.

Available Now

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available to purchase today worldwide via Insta360.com and select retailers. The Standard Bundle retails for US$399.99 and includes a Wind Guard, Battery, Standard Mount, Mic Cap, and USB-C Cable. The dual battery bundle includes the same accessories and two batteries for US$419.99.

www.insta360.com

Continue Reading

E-Newsletter Sign up!

Instagram Feed

Shortcode field is empty!Shortcode field is empty!

Popular