How I Started Photography

I always loved spending time outdoors, surrounded by nature and watching animals. Photography began as a way for me to share what I saw and to explore the hidden world of wildlife. I started with whatever camera I had and spent as much time as I could learning by doing. The more time I spent outside and in the water, the faster I improved.

Today I use Canon for both land and underwater work, but the brand is not what matters. Modern cameras are all excellent. What matters most is choosing something you feel comfortable with and using it often.

My Recommendations for Beginners

Start with a mirrorless camera

A mirrorless camera with a wide angle lens in the 15 to 35 millimeter range is a simple and versatile setup for learning. It works well both above and below water.

Underwater photography

For underwater work, your housing will depend on your budget. Seafrogs is a good affordable option and Marelux is a high-end system. If you are unsure, underwater gear shops such as Bluewater Photo can help you figure out what suits your needs.

The most important thing is spending time in the water. That is where you build confidence, understand how light behaves, and learn to move safely. Hawaii and French Polynesia are great places to learn because the water is clear and there is so much life to practice with.

Land photography

On land I use a Canon R5 with macro, telephoto, and wide lenses depending on the situation. You do not need this exact setup to begin. Any modern camera will let you learn the fundamentals.

Focus on comfort, not specs

It does not really matter what equipment you use. All of it is capable of creating beautiful images. Find a camera that feels good to you and spend as much time as you can practicing.

Additional Advice for Wildlife Photography

How can wildlife photographers reach the next level?

You do not need to travel to far-off places or focus only on rare or iconic species. I spend a lot of time photographing the animals in my backyard. They may seem ordinary to the people who see them every day, but that gives you an advantage. You have access. You can return to the same animal again and again, experiment with light, behavior, and angles, and slowly create something special.

Try to step into the animal’s world and share its story in a way people have not seen before. I have spent hundreds of hours photographing lizards and birds in the garden. Always be respectful and try not to disturb natural behavior.

What is the key element when trying to tell a story through images?

Get into the animal’s world and photograph from its perspective, not from the perspective of a human standing above it. A simple way to start is to get down to eye level. Be patient, stay still, immerse yourself, and try to become invisible. When you photograph from within their world, the story becomes much stronger.

What is one accessory you recommend all nature photographers bring on a shoot?

Snacks, warm clothes, sun protection, and water. Your comfort and patience matter more than your gear. Some of your best photographs will happen in the moments when everyone else has already packed up, gone back to camp, or gone to sleep.