Normal check first
Do the normal pre-dive safety check before thinking about the camera. Gas supply, inflator, releases, weights, computer and buddy equipment are still the priority.
Diving Safety & First Aid
Pre-Dive Safety Check for Underwater Photographers
A simple safety routine for divers carrying cameras, strobes, lights, snoots and extra accessories.
A buddy check that includes the camera system
Underwater photography adds extra equipment and extra decisions before the dive even begins. A camera tray, strobe arms, snoot, focus light, clips, lanyards and spare accessories can all distract from the basic checks that keep a dive controlled.
This guide keeps the normal buddy check at the centre of the dive, then adds the photographer-specific checks that help reduce task loading, dangling kit, missed gas checks and buddy separation.
Key points
Practical reminders to discuss before the dive and apply within your training and local briefing.
Look for dangling equipment
Loose clips, strobes, torches, lanyards and gauges can damage the seabed or entangle the diver. Tidy the system before entry.
Agree photographer behaviour
Discuss how long you will stay with a subject, who leads, where the non-shooting buddy waits and how you will communicate when it is time to move.
Make gas checks deliberate
Photography can make minutes pass quickly. Decide how often to check gas and depth, and keep those checks visible to your buddy.
Important note
A camera should never make the dive plan more complicated than the divers can comfortably manage. If the check feels rushed, stop and simplify before entering the water.
This guide is for general diver education and does not replace formal training, medical advice or the guidance of your instructor, dive centre, emergency services or a diving doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is a normal buddy check enough for underwater photography?
A normal buddy check is essential, but photographers should also check camera clips, strobes, arms, lights, lanyards and any accessories that may trail, catch or distract during the dive.
Should I enter the water holding my camera?
Follow the dive centre or boat procedure. In many situations it is safer to enter first and have the camera passed down, especially with larger systems or difficult entries.
What is the biggest extra risk for photographers?
Task loading is a major risk. The camera can distract from buoyancy, depth, gas, buddy position, current and the surrounding environment.
Should my buddy be another photographer?
It helps if your buddy understands photography behaviour, but the key is clear planning. Agree roles, communication, subject time and when to move on before the dive.
How often should I check gas while taking photos?
Use the interval agreed in your dive plan and check more often when deep, in current, cold, stressed or working hard. Photographers should make gas checks deliberate habits.
Can I skip a shot if the setup feels unsafe?
Yes. If the subject position, current, depth, visibility, buoyancy or marine life makes the shot unsafe or damaging, skip it and move on.
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