My First Underwater Photos: An Unforgettable Journey
Just over two years ago, I had the opportunity to dive in the Red Sea, armed with an underwater camera. At 14 years old, this adventure was my chance to capture the memories of my very first diving trip. Since then, this camera has been my constant companion!
A Fun Introduction to Underwater Photography
My first experience with a camera took place during my training with Georges Burel from the Tribubulles club in Giens. To make the technical exercise more enjoyable, Georges had the idea to give me a phone in a waterproof case. This exercise allowed me to focus on my buoyancy while keeping my hands busy. This trick was very effective and helped me improve my diving technique.
Heading to Sataya
A few months later, I flew to the lagoon of Sataya in the Red Sea. I had completed a full training course to be able to dive with dolphins and explore the colorful reefs surrounding the lagoon. Although my father is an experienced photographer, I wanted to capture my own memories. For this adventure, I was lucky enough to use a TG5. Without a flash or a light, I was determined to be independent underwater.
When I finally got underwater, I was amazed. Upon encountering the dolphins, I was swept away by excitement and took photos somewhat randomly. The speed of these creatures made it challenging, but beginner’s luck smiled on me, allowing me to capture a few memorable images.
Discovering Underwater Wonders
Once at the reef, I had more time to focus on my subjects. As a novice in tropical waters, I discovered coral fish with incredible shapes and colors. Among them, the masked pufferfish, with its round little Zorro face, became my favorite. Although my father, equipped with powerful lights, sometimes helped me illuminate my subjects, I made an effort to rely on the natural sunlight.
A Productive Week: 3,000 Photos
During that week, I took over 3,000 photos! Every time I encountered a fish that interested me, I clicked the shutter. I brought back many portraits of masked pufferfish, butterfly fish, and colorful corals. Sorting through these images was a real challenge. Every evening, I reviewed them, unable to discard even the blurriest ones. Despite the framing flaws and missed moments, these photos represented my first experiences, and I always found an excuse not to abandon them.
The Path to Sorting
It took me time to start sorting through these images. Beyond their imperfections, they testified to everything I had seen and experienced. They were the memories of my wonderful dives, my first diving trip, and so many firsts.
Today, I can no longer imagine diving without my camera. I have probably inherited my father’s photography passion. Over time, I have gained enough experience in diving and photography to improve. I am starting to look at my images with a critical eye, keeping only the best. Little by little, I am clicking less often, thus learning what it truly means to be an underwater photographer.
Conclusion
My underwater adventure has been marked by discoveries, unforgettable memories, and a growing passion for photography. Every dive is now an opportunity to explore and capture the beauty of the ocean depths. I am eager to continue learning and improving in this fascinating field.
This article, originally written by Léane Barraqué for the print edition of PLONGEZ!, has been adapted for the web.
Photos © Léane Barraqué, Nicolas Barraqué
