1. Can I learn with any camera?
2. What is a class like?
3. Should I bring samples of my past photos?
4. Should I learn with Staff or Cathy?
5. Can I get PADI specialty Certification?
6. How much does it cost? How do I reserve space?
7. What Scuba gear is best to use during the photo course?
8. What type of photos can I expect?
9. Can I do the classroom portion at home
and just the dive with you?
1. Can I learn with any camera?
You can learn the basics of taking pictures underwater with any camera that can be used underwater. If you start with a point and shoot camera and now wish to take your photography further, your camera system will limit your ability to do so. If you need a camera with manual adjustment controls, add-on wide-angle lens accessories and a external strobe, we can show you the best options. Avoid frustration and increase your shooting pleasure from the very beginning! 
With new systems changing so quickly, we don't try to remember where every button is on every model, so please bring your camera manuals to the lesson. The concepts remain the same but the menus and terms change with each manufacturer.
Need to rent a system? We recommend learning on the Olympus SP350, but we also have a Nikon D200. Students get 50% OFF rentals!!
2. What is a class like?
Digital classes are offered in our photo centre at Sunset House. Typically they include about two hours in the classroom, plus an hour and a half for a shore dive, weather permitting.
Classes usually start at 8.30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Topics vary to meet your needs and can include an introduction to digital concepts, the basics of photography, camera settings, optimum menu settings for underwater use, strobe aim and exposures, camera handling and diving with a camera. We teach both basic Photoshop classes and more advanced techniques, using the latest Photoshop CS2, and working with raw files.
You can cover the basics in one class or divide it into two. The first class can emphasize how to take exciting close-ups of beautiful small creatures such as hermit crabs and Christmas tree worms. In the second session you will photograph scenes of sponges and corals with friendly fish at greater distances with sunlit backgrounds.
3. Should I bring samples of my past photos?
Yes, if you have already taken pictures with your camera underwater, bring some earlier photos if you can, so that we have a starting point. It isn't absolutely necessary, but it helps to identify camera problems and previous good and bad techniques.
4. Should I learn with Staff or Cathy?
Cathy is a superb instructor who brings forty years of teaching experience to your lesson. She knows how to adjust the teaching style to match your learning style and knows how to change her explanation to match your interest level. This is especially apparent underwater where she can sense subtle needs and help you adjust your technique. In spite of the time she has spent 
with students, she is as enthusiastic today as she was when she first started. She gets excited to see your photos get better with each adjustment and is quick to compliment and make sure that above all else, YOU are having FUN.
She loves teaching even the most basic beginner as they have no bad habits to un-do. She starts her lessons with her famous "This is the front of the camera and this..."
Cathy has a wonderful well trained staff who bring their own successful style to your lesson. The staff Instructors have varied experience levels, and are available to teach the most basic student with a compact camera and the SLR user with Advanced Photoshop techniques.
All are friendly and knowledgeable.
5. Can I get PADI specialty Certification?
If you take two classes with dives, you can qualify for the
PADI photo rating for an additional US$37.50. You need to complete three dives for the video specialty.
6. How much does it cost? How do I reserve space?
US $60 per hour per person with our excellent instructors.
(50% off for family member second person)
$125.00 per hour with Cathy. Call for rates for additional students.
Please send a deposit of US $60.00 per session with a photo centre instructor or $125.00 per session with Cathy. We accept Visa, MC, Discover & American Express. Your deposit is refundable up to 48 hours before your class is scheduled.
Call us to book your classes now: 1-607-330-3504 or email
We look forward to helping you get wonderful photos underwater!
Updated June 7 2007
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By Dive-Op Manager Mike Pinnington
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