Digital Underwater Photography

If you have ever thought about taking your PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course, PADI Enriched Air Diver course, or PADI Rescue Diver course this video gives you an idea of what you can expect. These courses will help you achieve the PADI Master Scuba Diver rating!

Who should try this experience?

Underwater photography is one of the most popular diving specialties, and with so many underwater cameras to choose from, it has become easier and more fun than ever to capture images of your underwater scuba adventures. The PADI Digital Underwater Photographer course gets you going quickly, whether you use a point-and-shoot camera or a sophisticated dSLR like the pros.

PADI (Junior) Open Water Divers who are at least 10 years old are eligible to take the Digital Underwater Photographer course.

Because underwater photography is also popular with snorkelers, there is an option for avid snorkelers and skin divers to complete the course. Check with your PADI Dive Center or Resort if this interests you.

What will you learn?

Through hands-on training during two scuba dives and guidance from your PADI Professional, you’ll discover:

How to choose the right underwater camera system for you.
The PADI SEA (Shoot, Examine, Adjust) method for getting great shots quickly.
Principles for good composition of underwater images.
Practical techniques to take great photos with your digital camera.

Get credit! The second dive of this PADI Specialty Diver course may credit as an Adventure Dive toward your Advanced Open Water Diver certification – ask your instructor about earning credit.

How can you start learning now?

Sign up for Digital Underwater Photographer Online – PADI’s eLearning option – to get started immediately. The web-based system guides you through the principles of great underwater photography, with a bonus section on underwater imaging (including video). You study at your own pace through an easy-to-use, interactive program. You also have access to an online version of the Digital Underwater Photographer Manual.

You can also choose to read the paper version of the Digital Underwater Photographer Manual. Stop by your local PADI Dive Center and Resort to enroll in the course, get your materials and start learning. Your PADI Professional will meet with you to schedule knowledge review sessions along with your dives.

What scuba gear will you use?

Beyond using basic scuba equipment, you’ll need a digital underwater camera and a computer or other device for downloading and viewing your images. Your PADI Pro may suggest additional equipment and accessories depending on your camera system. Visit your local dive center to get advice about everything you need for your underwater photography adventures.

Next Step

Breathing underwater for the first time is something you’ll never forget, so don’t wait.

Sign up for Open Water Diver Online and start learning right away.
Enroll in a PADI Open Water Diver course at A-1 Scuba Diving And Snorkeling Adventures.
Try scuba diving with the Discover Scuba Diving program.
Download a Medical Statement and Questionnaire (pdf).
Browse the scuba certification FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions).

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A-1 Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Adventures

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David Goodwin

10:24 22 Apr 17

I have been certified to dive since 1994 and over the years I have been to Scuba shops all over the country. Imagine my surprise when my favorite store happens to be local to me. I found them when I wanted to get Nitrox certified and I have been going back ever since. This is the type of place where you are not just a number but everyone feels like family. This is the way dive shops should be, not just a place of business but a community. I would recommend A-1 to everyone.

Rick Fisher

15:21 15 Nov 14

Just completed dry suit certification at A1 Scuba with my son. Alan and all the staff did a great job teaching both the course and passing along their experience. Dives where packed with information and support from the great dive staff, plus a ton of fun. Highly recommend for any training needs. Can’t wait for our next class in the spring. Also purchased all our gear from A1. They have a great selection, and worked with us to find the right gear at a good price. Have looked at other local dive shops, but nobody does a better job getting to know us and finding the equipment to meet our needs and budget. Great local dive shop.

Mike Shaffer

01:15 17 Nov 14

Anyone who is looking for diving equipment or a place to be certified, need look no further than A-1 Diving. The owner Alan is a true diving pro as well as the rest of the staff. They really know their stuff and love telling you about various dive excursions whenever they have a chance. Also great for world class dive vacations especially North Carolina with the sharks and wrecks. They stock the best equipment. A-1 really works with you to make it one of the best experiences ever.

David Basara

17:17 17 Dec 14

The lessons offered were easy to understand, and the mentors were very kind. As an individual that has been afraid of water for a good portion of my life, I got my confidence back to start diving again. I have some excellent photos from my dives and the memories I made will be with me forever. Pumped up for the diving trip in '15! get your reservations NOW!!!

Robert nope

02:44 08 Jun 18

Great place for shopping or instruction

Jennifer Mayfield

13:16 08 Jun 18

Friendly helpful staff. Highly recommend

Sean Flynn

19:22 11 Jun 18

Great people, extremely knowledgeable. Wouldn’t go anywhere else.

Kevin Zuech

20:05 12 Jun 18

They were great, knowledge and willing to work around my busy schedule. They still invite me to join them on trips to utilize my cert. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to get into diving.

Melissa Bennett

23:09 19 Nov 14

I received my scuba certification from A-1. I love how flexible they are and how they work with people who have crazy schedules!!! They were so patient and really did everything they could to make you feel comfortable with the different exercises required for certification. I highly recommend them!!!

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