So you want to be an underwater photographer. I completely understand the desire, especially while perusing a pictorial on the Great Barrier Reef or the waters off Bermuda. The idea of being the author and producer of such stunning photographs is enough to make me, a tried and true land lover, want to dive right in with my trusy Fuji camera. To capture the rich oranges of the anemone fish or the psychedelic purple skin of a nudibranch, unfortunately, requires more than pointing and shooting.

The camera you use is not your largest variable. Underwater cameras are available for purchase, ranging from nearly affordable to not even close. Water tight housing cases for land cameras can also be used, for a slightly smaller investment. Add a light source, called a strobe, and you are half way there. In theory.

Most of my research on this type of photography has led me to believe that a masochistic bent to the psyche is nearly a prerequisite since a low ratio of the shots you will take will be considered keepers. Water as a medium is a difficult environment. Thousands of small, even miniscule, particles float between you and that angelfish you were so delighted to stumble upon, making your photo hazy and unclear. Water will also suck the warm end of the color spectrum out of your shots. That's why many underwater photos are studies in blue on blue.

To alleviate the color wash, basic rules have repeatedly been reiterated:

1. Get close to your subject - close enough to touch (however, experts do not recommend touching!).
2. Never shoot down. If you do, you will lose your subject in the background. Here is where a good grasp of diving is valuable. Positioning yourself below your subject will swing the odds in the photographer's favor. The solid blue of the water will create the best background for showcasing your subject.
3. Adding a strobe will be our rule #3. A medium to strong light source will go a long way to bringing back the true colors and textures you have fallen in love with beneath the deep blue sea.

And now you are on the road to great underwater photography.

Happy shooting!