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As underwater photography is one of Des’ passions, it stands to reason that he would’ve collected a whole bunch of info regarding this crazy obsession . So its included here to provide a link for other photographers looking for something similar.

This section was originally on The Divesite as a library of UW photography related books, but has expanded into a list of resources, including Reading List, Online Resources, Mailing Lists and other services. This resource list has been updated with latest information where possible.

Mailing Lists

There are three major mailing lists relating to UW Photography. We subscribe to all three, and get value from each of them.

• uw-photo-list.org.  This is the next generation version of the longest running and formally most popular mailing list that was on web.  This original list lost momentum when the world went digital, but there is an effort by Deb Fuggitt and others to revive it.  Great people on the list, so this should regain its place as a premier place to visit.
• uwphoto@yahoogroups.com - a smaller mailing list aimed more at beginner to intermediate photographers. To subscribe visit the Yahoo! Groups website or the UWPhotographer.net website.
• UWIGroup - a newer, British based mailing list aimed at the advanced amateur to professional. Very low volume of messages, but when it hots up its worthwhile. To subscribe, send an email to lists@idnet.net.uk with the words “join UWIGroup” (no quotation marks), followed by your email address.

Online Resources

There are many online resources (apart from BlueBeyond.com.au!!) with valuable information for UW photographers. These are some of my favourites.

• Dive-Oz - website about diving in Australia, with an active UW Photography forum
• WetPixel.com - website and active forums on underwater photography, particularly digital stuff.  The forums here are outstanding.
  
• Understanding Photography the Easy Way (or Barnyard Banter About the Basics) by Jim Church .  Fabuolous ust read PDF article by the late great Jim Church.  Thanks to Tony Matheis for consolidating the article, and hosting it on his website.

Reading List

One of our other hobbies is reading, so it is only natural that we have put together quite an extensive library relating to diving, and underwater photography. Below is a list of our favourite UW Photography books, and some general comments about them.

Church, J. (1994): Jim Church’s Essential Guide to Nikonos Systems. Aqua Quest Publications, NY

A really good how to book for owners of Nikonos camera systems, with practical tips for Nikonos V and Nikonos RS users, although valuable for all. I really like the way that Jim Church has included Situations - UW photo scenarios and he guides you through his approach.

Church, J. (1998): Jim Church’s Essential Guide to Composition. Aqua Quest Publications, NY

For all UW imaging systems users, this book is less about the technique (which can be found in Jim’s books on Nikonos and Video systems), and more about the art of UW photography. Jim again uses the Situations approach, and helps you develop an eye for good pictures. Really useful stuff on working with models.

De Couet, H. and A. Green (1989): The Manual of Underwater Photography. Verlag Christa Hemmen, Wiesbaden.

This book is more than 10 years old, and while UW photography has improved, and there are some major developments not included in this text, it would still be the technical bible for UW photography. This book goes into major detail regarding many aspects of this activity, and gives in depth technical information on equipment, servicing, photographic techniques, film choice, background about processing, and so on. For the intermediate to advanced UW photographer who wants to know more, this is the book.

Edge, M. (1999): The Underwater Photographer (2nd Edition). Focal Press, Oxford

This would have to be one of the best presented books I’ve seen. A really complete work, covering everything from basic principals of imaging, through to digital darkroom techniques. Practical tips and tricks, and nice personal touch commentary. Currently my favourite book on UW photography.

Update: The 3rd edition - The Underwater Photographer: Digital and Traditional Techniques was released in mid-2006. This is an excellent, excellent book that should be part of every underwater photographer’s library. Read my review here.

Frink, S. (1996): The Wonders of the Reef: Diving with a Camera . Henry A Abrams, New York

Another of the greats on underwater photography. Covers both the art, science and technique, along with extensive guide to locations.

Skerry, B and H. Hall (2002): Successful Underwater Photography. Watson-Guptill Publications

The new edition of a golden oldie. Skerry and Hall take a different approach - this book presents a series of photos around different themes (e.g. wide angle) and then the authors critique the photo. A worthwhile approach that will help you in developing an eye for what makes a good shot.

Liburdi, J. and C. Sherman (1997): The New Guide to Sea & Sea. Orca Publications, CA.

As the name suggests, this book is about Sea & Sea UW imaging stuff, ranging from the MX10 and MMXIIE, through to Nikonos accessories (e.g. lens and strobes) and housed camera systems. Sea and Sea make excellent gear, and this book backs that up. The book contains some of the best discussion on understanding strobes and guide numbers, and is worthwhile for all UW photogs.

PADI (1998): Underwater Photography. PADI, CA.

A nice, simple easy to use book that really emphasises how to enjoy UW photography and gives straightforward starting points, as well as some meatier bits for more experienced photographers. The manual for the PADI Underwater Photography specialty course.

Webster, M. (1998): The Art & Technique of Underwater Photography. Fountain Press, Kingston-upon-Thames.

This is an excellent presentation, with plenty of great examples of the author’s obvious extensive experience with UW photography. Many of Webster’s photos are accompanied by text explaining how the author approached the shot. More emphasis on the Art than the technique.