The sun rises over the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, casting golden hues on the ocean's surface. Small wooden fishing boats, packed with tourists, speed towards a pod of dolphins. Excited voices, camera shutters, and the splash of hurried snorkelers disturb the morning calm. This scene, played out daily, is a stark reminder of how human fascination with marine life often comes at a cost.
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Recent documentaries have shed light on the uncontrolled pressure that dolphin populations in Zanzibar endure due to mass tourism. Swimmers chase them, boats corner them, and respect for their natural behavior is often disregarded. It is easy to condemn such practices, to label them as reckless or damaging. But in a world where marine life is increasingly under threat, are these encounters always the worst alternative? If not for tourism, would these same dolphins face an even darker fate—hunted for food, captured for aquariums, or turned into aphrodisiac powders, as is the case in parts of Asia?

Selective Outrage: A Double Standard in Wildlife Reporting​
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This issue extends beyond Zanzibar. If a TV network chooses to expose the human impact on marine wildlife, shouldn’t it also hold a mirror to other problematic practices elsewhere? Madagascar, for example, has a booming whale shark tourism industry. While some operators respect the animals, others encourage behavior that disrupts their natural movements. In French Polynesia, divers routinely make contact with bottlenose dolphins in Rangiroa, yet these interactions rarely spark media outrage. The question then arises: why are some forms of wildlife tourism vilified while others are glamorized? And why does mainstream media choose to highlight some issues while remaining silent on others?

The Instagram Effect: When Nature Becomes a Trophy

Social media has fueled the desire for up-close, dramatic encounters with wildlife. For many, the goal is no longer the experience itself but the validation that comes with posting it online. Whether it's tourists chasing dolphins for the perfect selfie or divers pushing ethical boundaries for an award-winning shot, the ocean is often reduced to a backdrop for human ego. The truth is, no documentary will stop irresponsible tourists from doing whatever it takes for a viral moment.

A Photographer’s Reflection: Ethics in Marine Photography

​Watching these reports, I can't help but reflect on my own journey as an underwater photographer. Why do I take these images? For likes? For recognition? No. I capture the ocean’s beauty to share its wonders, to tell its story, and to remind people why it deserves protection. The joy for me is not in the instant gratification of an image but in the hours spent observing, waiting, and earning the trust of marine life.
In Mayotte, I have the privilege of stepping into the ocean at dawn, swimming out from the shore, and simply waiting. I don’t chase animals—they come to me. Whether it's dolphins, turtles, or sharks, every approach is deliberate, respectful, and based on an understanding of their behavior. Over time, I have even learned to mimic certain movements—a circular swim pattern to communicate with turtles, subtle fin movements to signal to dolphins that I am not a threat. These techniques take patience and commitment, something a rushed tourist encounter will never replicate.

The Race for the Perfect Shot: When Photography Becomes Exploitation​
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Beyond tourism, there is another conversation to be had—one about the pressure of wildlife photography competitions. In an industry that rewards the most striking, rare, and sensational images, photographers are sometimes tempted to cross ethical lines. Should an image of a dolphin staring directly into the lens be celebrated if it was only achieved by disturbing the animal? Should we admire a close-up of a whale shark if it was obtained by a diver who got too close? These are difficult questions, and perhaps ones best left for another article.

​Using Photography to Support Conservation Efforts
Photography has the power to go beyond simple aesthetic appeal and can play a vital role in conservation efforts. As photographers, we have the opportunity to make our work useful by collaborating with associations and scientists who are dedicated to protecting the natural world.
One powerful example is my friend Nils, who works with the Manta Trust to photograph manta rays for identification purposes. Each photo becomes a valuable data point, helping the organization track and catalogue manta populations based on their geographic location. This kind of collaboration ensures that our passion for underwater photography serves a greater purpose.
Instead of focusing solely on capturing the perfect shot to post on social media, we can choose to be more intentional and thoughtful about how our images are used. By connecting with conservation organizations and offering our skills for scientific documentation, we can make a meaningful difference. Let’s use our art to support research, raise awareness, and ultimately contribute to the preservation of marine life.
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The Story Behind a Whale Photo​

A few years ago, I was alone in the lagoon of Mayotte when I took a photo of a humpback whale. No one else was there—just me, the ocean, and this giant of the sea gliding peacefully through the crystal-clear waters. It was a rare moment, one of those encounters that stays with you forever.
Later, I sold that image through a stock photography agency. And sometime after, I found out that my photo—taken in Mayotte—had been used in a promotional booklet for whale-watching tourism... in Madagascar. The irony wasn’t lost on me.

This is the paradox of wildlife photography. You can capture an image with the utmost respect, yet once it’s out in the world, it can be repurposed, reshaped, and sometimes even used to promote practices that contradict your own ethics.
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That experience reinforced an important lesson: as photographers, we don’t just take pictures. We shape narratives. We influence perceptions. And that comes with responsibility.

The Responsibility of Wildlife Photographers and Conservationists

There’s another discussion to be had here—about the role of photography competitions and the increasing drive for more sensational images. But that’s a topic for another day.

For now, my message is this: respect nature. Leave your GoPro aside and simply enjoy the moment, not for the likes, but for yourself. The most valuable memories are the ones you carry in your soul, not the ones you post online.
If you truly want to make a difference, go beyond fleeting experiences. Commit yourself to real conservation. Make it your profession. Follow ethical guidelines. And if you want to expose human impact on wildlife, be thorough—tell the full story, not just the convenient parts.

Because in the end, the most powerful legacy we can leave is in the awe of future generations—the wonder in their voices when they say, “I want this to last. I want my children to see what I have seen.”
Otherwise, don’t pretend to be a conservationist. Be one.

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.
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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.
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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?
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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.
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And my story is told with Lumix.

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:
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• Emphasizing contrasts: Light and shadow become the central elements of the image, creating more graphic compositions.
• Highlighting textures: The details of marine creatures, the roughness of corals, or the softness of rays and sharks are enhanced.
• Eliminating chromatic distractions: Without the dominance of colors, the eye is drawn to the form and structure.
• Creating a dramatic atmosphere: Black and white can amplify the sense of mystery and timelessness.

The Masters of Black and White Underwater Photography
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• Ernie Brooks II: A true pioneer of black and white underwater photography, Ernie Brooks II has captured the beauty and mystery of the ocean in a unique way. His work is marked by exceptional contrast and an artistic approach that transcends mere reportage. He has collaborated with National Geographic, and his legacy continues to inspire photographers worldwide.

Other notable photographers:

• Chris Newbert: Known for his high-definition images highlighting the subtle play of light and shadow.
• Henri Eskenazi: A specialist in photographing sharks and rays in black and white, his work evokes the power and grace of these creatures.
• David Doubilet (occasionally in black and white): While he is better known for his color photos, some of his monochrome work is exceptionally powerful.

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.

The Sea: A World of Mysteries and Incredible Biodiversity
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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

• Light: Underwater, light behaves differently. It is absorbed by water, and colors—especially reds and oranges—disappear after just a few meters of depth. This makes the use of flashes or artificial lighting essential for achieving sharp and vibrant images.
• Stability and Movement: Water is a constantly moving environment, making it difficult to take clear shots. Waves, currents, and even the movement of marine creatures can result in blurry or poorly framed photos. Mastering the camera and gaining experience are crucial to anticipating and managing these elements.
• Accessibility Conditions: Sometimes, capturing rare species requires traveling to remote locations, far from the coast. This demands time, dedication, and high-performance equipment capable of withstanding harsh conditions.

The Cost of Underwater PhotographyUnderwater photography equipment can be relatively expensive.

• Camera: A good underwater photography camera costs between €500 and €2,500 for entry-level and mid-range models. Professional models can exceed €5,000.
• Waterproof Housing: An essential investment to protect the camera, waterproof housings range from €300 to €2,000, depending on the brand and compatibility.
• Lenses and Lighting: Adding specific lenses (wide-angle, macro) and underwater strobes or torches can significantly increase costs. An underwater strobe typically costs between €300 and €1,500.

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

• Stability and Smoothness: Unlike photography, video requires perfect stability to avoid shaky footage. Body movements, waves, and currents make this difficult, especially at depths where visibility is reduced. A good stabilizer (gimbal) is essential for smooth shots.
• Heavier and Bulkier Equipment: Underwater video gear is often heavier and bulkier. It requires specialized housings, sometimes with additional lenses to adapt to different focal lengths, making the setup quite cumbersome—especially for long dives.
• Exposure Time: Unlike photography, where each shot is instantaneous, underwater videography requires longer takes with constant adjustments to light, exposure, and focus. This demands patience and concentration, especially in changing lighting conditions.

The Cost of Underwater VideographyUnderwater video equipment is generally more expensive than photography gear because it requires more complex and robust setups.

• Video Camera: A waterproof camera or a high-quality model adapted for underwater video starts at around €1,000, but professional models can easily exceed €5,000.
• Waterproof Housing for Video: Video-specific housings are also more expensive, often ranging between €1,000 and €3,000, depending on their specifications.
• Additional Accessories: Accessories such as powerful lighting, filters, or wide-angle lenses add to the overall cost, with prices ranging from €300 to €2,000.

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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.
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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.

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.
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1. Unveiling an Invisible World: Underwater, everything is different. The colors, the movements, the way light filters through the surface… What the human eye rarely perceives becomes a scene to be immortalized. Photographing beneath the waves means revealing a beauty that few people have the chance to witness with their own eyes.
   
2. Raising Awareness About Ocean Conservation: The seas and oceans are home to an incredible diversity of life, but they are also in great danger. Through underwater photography, we can shed light on the fragility of this ecosystem. Showcasing the splendor of an untouched coral reef, as well as the devastating effects of climate change or pollution, helps raise awareness and reminds us that protecting the ocean means protecting our planet.

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?