 Photography is about vision, style, and emotion. Each camera brand has its own signature, and Lumix has always spoken to me. Unlike the sometimes overly polished brilliance of Nikon or the excessive saturation of Canon (in my opinion), Lumix colors have a distinct identity—natural, balanced, and true to reality.  One of my first use of Lumix G7 in New Zealand My First Encounter with Lumix: A Love Story in New Zealand It all started during a trip to New Zealand, a breathtakingly beautiful country where every landscape is a masterpiece. There was no way I was leaving without capturing real photos—not the kind taken on a smartphone, but true, high-quality images. That’s when I bought my first Lumix G7. I expected a steep learning curve, but to my surprise, the menus were incredibly intuitive, making it easy to get started. And just like that, my journey with Lumix photography began. Very quickly, I realized the color rendering and image definition were on another level compared to my iPhone at the time. From that moment on, I stuck with Lumix.  From Diving to Fine Art: My Evolution as a Photographer When my GoPro failed me, I started looking for a serious underwater camera. Naturally, I turned to the GH5. This camera followed me everywhere, from tropical waters to extreme conditions, for almost seven years before I (stupidly) flooded it. Then came the Lumix S1. I wanted to see what high-end photography could bring to my work. And once again, I was blown away. The autofocus was lightning-fast, making me feel like my own eye was doing the focusing. It delivered top-tier performance while maintaining the signature usability and simplicity of the Lumix range. Thanks to this camera, I’ve had multiple finalist photos in the Siena Awards, National Geographic Traveller, Wildlife Photographer of the Year… Proof that while the gear doesn’t make the photographer, it’s an essential partner in bringing artistic vision to life.
And Now, My Rant… As much as I respect Lumix for the quality of its cameras, I am baffled by Panasonic’s current marketing strategy. Instead of highlighting the creators who use their gear daily in real-world conditions, they prefer to pay influencers to travel to Norway and talk about 4:2:2, Open something-or-other, and other specs that, while useful, fail to connect the creator to the camera. When I see how Sony collaborates with photographers like Paul Nicklen, showcasing the true power of their cameras in the field, I can’t help but wonder: why is Lumix not doing the same? Why not put the spotlight on the photographers and filmmakers who actually use Lumix cameras to capture breathtaking moments? Influencers have their place, but they will never replace those who live and breathe photography.  Lumix, It’s Time to Call on Your Real Creators
I love Lumix. These cameras have been my trusted companions in my adventures. But I would love to see Panasonic give a voice to those who truly bring their cameras to life, rather than those who simply test them between brand deals. Because a camera is not just a spec sheet. It’s a tool for creation, a means of storytelling. And my story is told with Lumix.
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 The Bahamas, a paradisiacal archipelago of 700 islands and over 2,000 cays, is one of the most sought-after destinations for sea lovers and diving enthusiasts. Among its many marine treasures, Tiger Beach, located off the coast of Grand Bahama, is a true mecca for divers seeking thrills and extraordinary encounters with sharks. Tiger Beach: The Shark Sanctuary : Tiger Beach is one of the world's most famous spots for shark diving. This site is renowned for its crystal-clear, shallow waters, ideal for immersing yourself among tiger sharks, as well as other species such as nurse sharks, blacktip sharks, and whale sharks. The water’s exceptional clarity provides perfect visibility, making it a unique location to observe and photograph these majestic creatures. Located just a few kilometers off the coast of Grand Bahama, Tiger Beach is easily accessible by boat and ideal for dives at relatively shallow depths (between 5 and 12 meters). This allows divers to move at their own pace while being immersed in an incredible environment where marine life is impressively diverse.  Encountering Tiger Sharks: An Unforgettable Experience The tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier) is one of the most fascinating and feared creatures of the ocean. Its impressive size, unique dark-striped pattern, and reputation as a top predator make it an especially striking encounter. At Tiger Beach, divers have the opportunity to observe them up close, in their natural habitat, in a safe and controlled environment. Despite their fearsome reputation, tiger sharks—along with the other species present—are generally not aggressive toward humans. Experienced guides at Tiger Beach ensure a respectful encounter by following strict protocols to prevent any disturbance to the animals. Diving with these sharks, whether freediving or scuba diving, is a moment of pure adrenaline. Seeing these majestic creatures swim around you, often just a few meters away, is a life-changing experience. For many divers, it becomes an unforgettable memory, fostering a deep connection with nature and a greater awareness of the need to protect these marine predators.  Why Dive at Tiger Beach? The Advantages of This Exceptional Site
 The Challenges of Diving at Tiger Beach Despite its breathtaking appeal, shark diving at Tiger Beach comes with its own set of challenges.
 The Cost of the Adventure: An Investment for Diving Enthusiasts Diving at Tiger Beach comes at a certain cost, but for passionate divers, it is an investment well worth making.
 Conclusion: Tiger Beach, an Underwater Dream Diving at Tiger Beach is a one-of-a-kind adventure, blending adrenaline, the beauty of the ocean depths, and the chance to encounter fascinating marine creatures. While the experience comes with its challenges, the rewards are immense. For diving enthusiasts, it’s a dream come true—an opportunity for awe and a deep sense of respect for these majestic marine predators. If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking underwater destinations, Tiger Beach in the Bahamas is a must-visit.  The Art of Black and White Underwater Photography Underwater photography is often associated with the vibrant colors of coral reefs and the light filtered through the ocean. However, black and white offers a radically different approach, focusing on texture, contrast, and pure emotion. In this article, we explore the art of monochrome underwater photography and the techniques to enhance this unique style.  Why choose black and white underwater? Black and white photography transcends mere documentary representation to achieve a more artistic and timeless dimension. Here are a few reasons why it holds such particular appeal:
 Techniques to master black and white underwater photography
 The Masters of Black and White Underwater Photography
 Serge and the Exploration of Black and White Underwater
In the tradition of passionate photographers, Serge, wildlife and underwater photographer, has also established himself as a reference in black and white underwater photography. His work stands out for its strong narrative approach and a constant search for the perfect light underwater. Each image he captures tells a story, highlighting the relationship between man and the ocean. His unique perspective allows him to transcend mere documentary shots, offering true works of art that find their place in specialized magazines and prestigious exhibitions. For Serge, black and white photography is about its timelessness and the pursuit of light. While he enjoys shooting in black and white, it all began from a practical need—being colorblind, he had trouble distinguishing blue, which often turned to violet in his images. Over time, this practical choice evolved into an artistic journey, as he learned to seek out light in low-lit conditions and to focus on the search for shapes.  An Underwater Paradise Between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean Baja California, this enchanting peninsula stretching between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, is truly a sanctuary for diving enthusiasts. Each year, divers from around the world come to explore its crystal-clear waters, drawn by the promise of exceptional encounters with marine life of unparalleled richness. Among the must-visit diving spots in this underwater adventure, La Paz stands out as a prime gateway to spectacular dive sites.  A World Populated by Giants: Whale Sharks La Paz is one of the best places in the world to observe whale sharks, these ocean giants that, despite their impressive size reaching up to 12 meters, are remarkably gentle. These majestic creatures, which primarily feed on plankton, come to feed in the calm waters of La Paz Bay between October and April. The encounter with a whale shark is a unique experience: the feeling of swimming alongside these peaceful creatures, in perfect harmony with the ocean, creates a timeless moment. Diving near these immense sharks, while respecting their space, is a way to reconnect deeply with nature.  Sea Lions: The Dancers of the Waves Not far from La Paz, in the crystal-clear waters of Espíritu Santo Island, another fascinating encounter awaits divers: the California sea lions. These marine mammals, known for their agility and sociability, are a true spectacle underwater. Curious, they often approach divers, performing pirouettes and aquatic dances around their visitors. These animals are particularly playful, and their interaction with humans creates moments of pure wonder. The waters around Espíritu Santo Island are also a prime spot to observe other marine species, such as manta rays, sea turtles, and a variety of colorful fish.  The Seafloor: A Giant Aquarium The seafloor of Baja California is one of the richest and most diverse underwater ecosystems on the planet. The Sea of Cortez, nicknamed "the aquarium of the world" by Jacques Cousteau, is teeming with life. Dives in this region offer breathtaking underwater landscapes, with stunning rock formations, coral reefs, and schools of colorful fish swimming in crystal-clear waters. Divers can observe synchronized schools of fish, sea lions performing acrobatics, mobula rays dancing beneath the surface, and coral landscapes that seem straight out of a dream.  A Balanced Fauna: A Protected Zone This unique area is also a model for marine conservation. The region benefits from several protected zones, including the El Vizcaíno Biosphere Reserve, where whale sharks, sea lions, and other threatened species can thrive without being disturbed by industrial fishing. This protected status, combined with awareness efforts aimed at preserving marine ecosystems, helps maintain the delicate balance of these exceptional waters.  A Journey Between Land and Sea Diving in the waters of Baja California is much more than just an underwater adventure. It’s a journey to the very heart of the ocean's soul. The encounter with whale sharks, sea lions, and the discovery of La Paz's underwater world reminds us that the beauty of the marine world lies in the diversity and balance of species. It’s also a call to protect these fragile ecosystems, both fascinating and vulnerable, which constitute one of the most precious natural treasures of our planet.
 Off the coast of Mexico, 240 kilometers from the Baja California Peninsula, lies Guadalupe Island, a marine sanctuary ruled by the most iconic of ocean predators: the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias). This small volcanic island, battered by winds and surrounded by crystal-clear waters, has become one of the best places in the world to observe this sea giant. A Journey Beyond Time Exploring Guadalupe is venturing into a raw and pristine world, far from human turmoil. Accessible only by boat after a nearly 20-hour sail from Ensenada, this isolated territory offers divers a unique experience: meeting the largest predator of the oceans face-to-face, immersed in its world. In the deep blue waters, the silence is broken only by the gentle lapping of waves against the metal cage. The anticipation is a surge of adrenaline. Then, suddenly, a ghostly silhouette emerges from the blue. Immense. Graceful. Powerful, yet contained. With a fixed gaze, the great white moves with fascinating fluidity, revealing all the intelligence and curiosity of an animal often misunderstood. A Fragile Sanctuary While Guadalupe is a paradise for shark enthusiasts, it is also a fragile ecosystem. Since 2005, the island and its surrounding waters have been designated a biosphere reserve, banning all fishing and ensuring a protected environment for sharks and other marine species. But the threat persists. Climate change, plastic pollution, and human pressure remain significant challenges for the conservation of these fascinating creatures. Observing a great white shark in Guadalupe, therefore, is more than just an extraordinary experience; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting the oceans and their inhabitants. Practical Information
 Great White Shark: Master of the Oceans The great white shark, with its imposing silhouette and sharp teeth, is one of the most feared and fascinating predators on the planet. Reaching up to 6 meters in length and weighing over 1,000 kg, this marine predator moves with an unmatched grace and efficiency. Its reputation as an unrelenting hunter is partly due to its ability to detect even the slightest vibrations in the water and its hunting strategy, which combines patience and speed. It primarily feeds on seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals, and its role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance is crucial. As a "super-predator," the great white shark regulates prey populations, helping to maintain the health of marine populations by preventing the overpopulation of other species. Despite its reputation for danger, attacks on humans remain extremely rare, and great whites are actually curious animals, exploring their environment and "targets" cautiously before retreating.  The "Shark Café" is an informal term referring to an area located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, between Baja California and Hawaii, where great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) periodically gather. This location was discovered thanks to satellite tagging of these sharks, which embark on a journey of about a month from their usual habitats off the coast of California to reach this remote region. The exact reasons for this gathering remain partially mysterious. Initially, some researchers believed that the "Shark Café" could be a mating or birthing area for the great white sharks. However, this hypothesis has been questioned, as the significant distance between this area and the coastal nurseries makes it less likely. Recent studies have revealed that the "Shark Café" is actually a true oceanic oasis, home to an amazing biodiversity, including more than 100 species of fish and deep-sea squids. The great white sharks likely gather in this region to feed on these abundant prey, which explains their regular presence in the area. Regarding the reproduction of great white sharks, they are ovoviviparous, meaning that fertilized eggs develop inside the mother, who then gives birth to live young. Before birth, the shark pups practice oophagy, feeding on unfertilized eggs inside the uterus. In summary, while the "Shark Café" is an important gathering spot for great white sharks, it is not considered a reproduction zone. The exact reasons for their presence in this area are still being studied, but it is likely related to their search for food in an environment rich in prey.  Cage Diving: A Debate on Ethics and Conservation Cage diving to observe the great white sharks of Guadalupe raises ethical and environmental questions. On one hand, it allows enthusiasts to experience a unique encounter and raises awareness about the beauty and necessity of protecting these animals. Observing them up close, without disturbing them, can help break the stereotypes surrounding these predators and show that they are not the "monsters" often depicted in the media.  On the other hand, some critics argue that even passive human interaction can disrupt the natural behavior of the sharks, particularly by attracting them to the cages with food. This could also encourage the sharks to associate human presence with food, exposing them to additional risks, such as accidental captures in fishing nets. Ultimately, cage diving remains a controversial experience, requiring strict regulation and responsible management to ensure that shark observation does not jeopardize their well-being or natural habitat.  Cliquez ici pour modifier.
 The Sea: A World of Mysteries and Incredible Biodiversity The sea, with its mysteries and incredible biodiversity, has always fascinated photographers and videographers. Capturing the beauty of this unique environment is a major challenge but also an endless adventure. However, when deciding to pursue one of these disciplines, a common question arises: underwater photography or underwater videography? Each of these practices has its advantages but also its challenges. Let’s explore what they involve, both in terms of technical aspects and costs. Underwater Photography: The Art of Capturing the MomentUnderwater photography is the art of capturing unique moments. Unlike video, which tells a story over several seconds or minutes, photography focuses on a single moment—a frozen image, often filled with poetry and emotion. Challenges of Underwater Photography
 Underwater Videography: Telling a Story Through Motion Underwater videography offers a more dynamic and immersive experience, capturing not only images but also sounds and movement. It is the perfect tool for telling a story, documenting animal behavior, or conveying the atmosphere of an underwater environment. Challenges of Underwater Videography
 So, Underwater Photography or Videography?
The choice between underwater photography and videography ultimately depends on your goals and what you wish to capture. If you are looking for striking, still images that freeze the beauty of marine landscapes and creatures in a single moment, underwater photography might be the best fit. However, if you want to create visual narratives, showcase behaviors, and immerse viewers in the atmosphere of an underwater location, underwater videography is likely the better option. Conclusion : Whether you choose underwater photography or videography, both disciplines are fascinating but require significant financial and technical commitment. Depending on your budget, passion, and creative ambitions, it’s essential to weigh the advantages and challenges of each. The ocean offers an endless wealth of beauty to capture—it’s up to you to decide how to bring it to life.  Dolphins: The Fascinating Guardians of the Ocean Dolphins have always fascinated humanity. These graceful and social marine creatures are often seen as symbols of freedom, joy, and intelligence. But beyond their charismatic image, dolphins are extraordinary beings, possessing a complexity and richness that deserve to be explored. One of the Most Intelligent Animals Dolphins have remarkably developed brains, and their cognitive abilities are impressive. They can use tools, solve complex problems, and communicate with one another through a wide range of sounds and gestures. Some researchers even claim that dolphin intelligence rivals that of primates, placing them among the most intelligent animals on the planet. Social and Sensitive Creatures What makes dolphins even more fascinating is their social nature. They live in groups called "pods" and form incredibly strong bonds with their peers. These connections are essential for their survival and well-being. They protect one another, cooperate when hunting, and, perhaps most surprisingly, they display empathy. Dolphins have been observed helping injured members of their group and even coming to the aid of humans in distress at sea.  A Complex Language Dolphins are known for their sophisticated communication system. They use a variety of sounds—clicks, whistles, and other vocalizations—to exchange information with their group members. Incredibly, each dolphin has its own "name," a unique whistle that identifies it. This ability to communicate in such a complex way is one of the reasons dolphins are often considered "higher beings" in the animal kingdom. Dolphins and the Marine Ecosystem Dolphins play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. As both predators and prey, they act as natural regulators of other marine species' populations. Through their hunting behavior and movements, they help sustain biodiversity and the equilibrium of their environment. The Threats Facing Dolphins Despite their intelligence and essential role in nature, dolphins face numerous threats. Ocean pollution, industrial fishing, habitat loss, and climate change all put their survival at risk. One of the biggest dangers is accidental entanglement in fishing nets (often referred to as "bycatch"), which continues to be a major threat to dolphin populations.  Protecting Dolphins: A Necessity
The preservation of dolphins is crucial—not only for the survival of these magnificent creatures but also for the overall health of the oceans. Reducing pollution, regulating fishing practices, and creating protected areas for dolphins are essential measures to ensure their future. We all have a role to play in safeguarding these animals, not just for their beauty and intelligence, but for the balance of the marine ecosystem as a whole. Conclusion: A Symbol of Hope for Nature Dolphins are more than just marine animals—they are symbols of intelligence, freedom, and deep connection with the environment. They remind us of the importance of living in harmony with nature, protecting our planet, and respecting the beings who share our world. So, the next time you encounter a dolphin, think of the fragile beauty of this animal, its vital role in the oceans, and the urgency of protecting its blue home.  Underwater Photography: A Gateway to a Hidden World Underwater photography is an open door to a fascinating world—one that is often unknown yet essential to the balance of our planet. Capturing these moments beneath the surface is much more than a visual adventure; it is a dive into a universe where every detail tells a story, where light dances with water, and where every creature seems to belong to another world.
 3. Wonder and Connection with Nature Diving is about immersing yourself in a world where you become a mere observer—an invited guest. Every underwater encounter, whether it’s a school of fish moving in a hypnotic dance, a turtle gliding peacefully, or a majestic shark, is a lesson in humility and wonder. Capturing these moments allows us to extend that connection and share it with those who may never experience it firsthand. 4. An Artistic and Technical Challenge Underwater photography comes with its own set of challenges: working with constantly shifting light, adapting to the continuous movement of water and subjects, and composing shots as colors fade with depth. But that’s what makes this discipline so captivating—each image is a quest, each shot a small victory. 5. Documenting Biodiversity and Expanding Knowledge Photographing marine life is also about learning. Every dive is a scientific exploration, an opportunity to better understand species' behaviors, interactions, and habitats. It’s a discipline of constant progress, where curiosity is the driving force. Conclusion Underwater photography is about stepping into a fascinating world, telling invisible stories, and capturing fleeting moments to share them. But it’s also a responsibility—to be both witness and messenger of the ocean’s beauty and fragility. And you—if you could dive today, what world would you choose to photograph?  |
Award-winning photographer and videographer, I capture the beauty of the oceans and marine life, with a mission to raise awareness about the preservation of our planet. Archives
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