adamhanlon

One of the most frequently discussed topics here on the Wetpixel forums is the selection of appropriate dome ports. Many topside photographers assume that the dome's function is simply to provide a waterproof port and tend to be unaware of the fact that it also acts as a critical component in an underwater optical system. @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon discuss how ports can make or break the quality of imagery that can be produced underwater.

I have the advantage of having shot both the Laowa 14mm and the Nauticam EMWL. The Laowa is tough to shoot underwater...manual focus and aperture makes for challenges. Quality wise, it is OK. The tentacles here are on the lens' front element. I do need to do more with EMWL, but the initial impressions are that it is much easier to shoot. The Laowa is rectilinear, which is probably why it has been adopted by many video shooters. The jury is still out of the 100° objective as to how much distortion there is. Adam

So they are all at work again...please use caution. Definite scammer: traviskeese00 (traviskeese00@gmail.com) banned 07/31/21. Adam

Both @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon are enthusiastic champions for controlling the light their strobes put out, in order to ensure that their subjects are beautifully lit. One way to help to do so is to reduce the amount of light by switching one strobe off or simply only taking one on the dive. In this episode, they chat through the situations in which they tend to use a single strobe and the advantages of doing so.

Corals provide a habitat for many of the creatures that we seek to photograph. However, as @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon discuss, they also are a fantastic subject for underwater image-makers. They talk about the equipment and techniques of photographing corals, along with some creative ideas for those seeking to add imagery of these beautiful creatures to their portfolios.

@Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon chat about one of the most crucial wide angle lenses in the underwater image-maker's lens bag: The fisheye. They discuss why this type of lens is so good for capturing underwater scenes, some tips on how best to use it, and why focal length is not all that it seems when talking about these types of lens.

Many underwater image makers are still unable to travel to warmer climes. This has led to a resurgence in interest in diving in home waters, which sometimes involves cooler water temperatures than those individuals are used to. @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon chat about how drysuits can help make image-making enjoyable and pleasant in cooler water, and how to go about choosing the right drysuit can help make photography and videography in cold water productive.

Hi, My experience is that Aquatica in Canada are super quick and efficient. I would try to email them? Adam

Big animals represent a subject that fascinates most underwater image-makers and one they seek out opportunities to interact with and document. @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon chat about how to best make use of the fleeting opportunities that these animals often present.

A commonly asked question here on the Wetpixel Forums is how much experience individuals should have before taking a camera underwater, and what type of diver training can help people to get better underwater imagery. @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon delve into this subject on Wetpixel Live, discussing their own approaches to diver training, what qualifications they use and how to ensure that capturing images underwater can be enjoyed in a way that is safe for divers and the marine environment.

Diving at night offers underwater image makers creative and subject options that are simply not available when shooting in the daytime. @Alex_Mustard and @adamhanlon discuss some ideas for making night dives photographically productive, including equipment tweaks, organizational ideas, and suitable subjects.

I think I answered: On the basis of the images you have posted (with the proviso that the port set up was probably incorrect) would I say that this lens combination works for underwater photography works? My answer would be: No, it does not. I would not chose or use this lens combination. BUT, and this is the point we are all trying to make to you, if YOU are happy with them, that is largely all that matters. In underwater imaging terms, I freely admit that I prefer Michelin starred! Adam

@Alex_Mustard expounds on his theory that the most useful underwater imaging accessory is one often neglected by many underwater photographers and filmmakers. The snorkel can open up a wealth of creative and technical opportunities that scuba and other breathing systems just do not allow. It is perhaps a little-known fact that many of Alex's early images were actually shot while using one!

I think there was a lot of confusion about battery carriage in general a few years ago. We can all share anecdotes from that time I'm sure! However, it seems to be largely sorted now, as check in staff have got got to grips with the IATA regulations. I find that printing this document out can help: https://www.iata.org/contentassets/6fea26dd84d24b26a7a1fd5788561d6e/passenger-lithium-battery.pdf I also shamelessly use the "all lithium in my carry on" explanation to justify why my carry on weighs 25kg

So...as others have said, does it do what you want it to do? If it does, I would suggest it seems fine... Technically, it's close focus seems very limited, corner sharpness is not great (which may be the lack of extension), and focal length seems to be too narrow for most wide angle subjects, and too wide for portrait type shots. The latter is the biggest issue. Take the image of the divers for example. In order to get the a field of view that allows you to capture the divers, you have been forced to back away, which has meant that you have no way of getting your lighting on too the subject. A wider lens, will allow you to get a field of view and to light your subjects...