 When you start creating your first films, editing is often a "home-based" process: simple editing, lightweight formats (H.264), and no anticipation of the final distribution. But from the moment you aim to sell a documentary, even a short film, everything changes. Here are the key evolutions to understand to move to a professional level. 1. Organize Your Editing in Final Cut Pro
 2. Anticipate Multilingual Needs and SubtitlesTo sell internationally:
 3. Clean Export with CompressorAdvantages of Compressor:
 4. Create a DCP for Cinema ProjectionDCP (Digital Cinema Package) is the standard format for cinema projection.
 5. Distribute Your Film Through Aggregators: Filmhub, BitmaxTo sell on major platforms (Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Tubi, etc.):
Main aggregators:
Conclusion: Transitioning from "home editing" to professional editing means understanding that every stage (editing, export, distribution) must be planned from the start for the final destination. It’s a demanding evolution, but incredibly rewarding. ✨ And it's also the key to having your films travel far beyond your computer screen. 
Today, I wanted to talk to you about something else that weighs on my heart.
I discovered the animal sanctuary La Tanière by chance, during a stop near Chartres, in France. This extraordinary place gives shelter to animals rescued from customs seizures, circuses, illegal breeding operations, or tourist attractions. Many arrive broken — physically or emotionally — and the team there does everything to heal them, rehabilitate them, or at the very least, offer them a dignified life… or a dignified end. 
Among the stories that left a mark on me is Isabella, a tigress whose claws and teeth were brutally removed so that tourists could pose next to her without risk. This act of cruelty was reportedly committed in India. Or these lions abandoned by a Spanish circus, left starving and untreated in their cages.
This sanctuary touched me deeply. It opened my eyes to something devastating: the wildlife trafficking trade, which is not just a distant problem. Even in France, over 3,000 wild animals are seized every year by customs. Globally, wildlife trafficking is the fourth largest criminal activity, after drugs, weapons, and human trafficking — worth over $23 billion annually and affecting millions of animals each year. Decline of Iconic Wildlife Species (1970–2020)
The What We Lost series was born out of that shock. It pays tribute to endangered species — tigers, elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes — but also to our lost connection with the wild. Each image is a silent prayer, a fragile memory, a way to say: Look at what we are losing.
And let’s be honest: our actions as tourists often fuel this suffering. Behind an exotic photo or a selfie with a wild animal, there may be hidden chains, forced obedience, or lifelong captivity. Just for a few seconds of content. We should never let a simple Instagram post justify that kind of cruelty. 
30% of all sales from this series will be donated to the La Tanière sanctuary.
This is not about money. It’s about responsibility. Chasing the Wild: The Ethics of Dolphin Tourism and the Role of Photography in Conservation3/29/2025  Around 4 years to be accepted and get this close face to face 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. 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 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?  Kind of things you see in French Polynesia.... 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.  Is it the best way to appreciate the moment ? The Race for the Perfect Shot: When Photography Becomes Exploitation 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. 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. 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.  Whale from Mayotte find on Madagascar Ads.... 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. 
Photography is not just about sharpness or specs — it’s about emotion, vision, and the way a camera interprets the world.
Every brand has its own color signature. While Nikon sometimes feels too clinical and Canon a bit oversaturated to my eye, Lumix strikes a rare balance: natural tones, honest contrast, and a cinematic depth that feels true — especially underwater. That’s why I chose Lumix — and why I trust it when telling stories beneath the surface. 
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. Why I Choose Lumix for My Underwater PhotographyAs an award-winning underwater photographer, my choice of gear is driven by both performance and personal style. I chose Lumix for several key reasons that set my work apart from the mainstream underwater photography scene:
This combination of factors allows me to produce distinctive underwater images that capture the ocean’s true colors and mood, while reflecting my personal artistic vision. 
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.
When emotion meets purposePhotography is more than an image — it’s a way to slow down, to connect, and to protect what still can be saved. Discover a selection of fine art prints that carry this intention. See the Fine Art Collection →
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. 
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. 
Black & White. Nothing to Hide.In a world of color, black and white reveals something deeper.
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
Why I Choose Lumix for My Underwater PhotographyAs an award-winning underwater photographer, my choice of gear is driven by both performance and personal style. I chose Lumix for several key reasons that set my work apart from the mainstream underwater photography scene:
This combination of factors allows me to produce distinctive underwater images that capture the ocean’s true colors and mood, while reflecting my personal artistic vision.
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
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
Why I Choose Lumix for My Underwater PhotographyAs an award-winning underwater photographer, my choice of gear is driven by both performance and personal style. I chose Lumix for several key reasons that set my work apart from the mainstream underwater photography scene:
This combination of factors allows me to produce distinctive underwater images that capture the ocean’s true colors and mood, while reflecting my personal artistic vision. 
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. 
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? Why I Choose Lumix for My Underwater PhotographyAs an award-winning underwater photographer, my choice of gear is driven by both performance and personal style. I chose Lumix for several key reasons that set my work apart from the mainstream underwater photography scene:
This combination of factors allows me to produce distinctive underwater images that capture the ocean’s true colors and mood, while reflecting my personal artistic vision. 
|
Serge Melesan
Underwater & Fine Art Ocean Photographer Specialist in Fine Art Ocean Photography. Published in Oceanographic Magazine & Earth.org. National Geographic Traveller – Portfolio Winner (2023). Archives
Novembre 2025
Catégories
All
|
RSS Feed