https://www.instagram.com/underwaterjulian
How did you get started as an underwater photographer, and what inspired you to pursue this “off-course” career?
My parents and I went on diving holidays to Egypt every year, so I got introduced to the underwater world fairly early. I was only about 7 or 8 when I went on my first dive, and needless to say, I was totally hooked. Over the years, I wanted something to take home from those trips, to show my friends and family all the cool stuff I saw. I ended up buying a GoPro Hero 5, the latest model at that point, which was cool for underwater, and I could also use it to film my friends and I mountain biking and such. Honestly, that GoPro was probably the best purchase of my career, simply because it made me discover my passion. It was the first step in my underwater photography journey.
It’s hard to pinpoint what inspires me to do what I do, but one thing for sure is being one with nature. Whether I waded through the mangroves of the Bahamas at 5 in the morning or paddled an hour offshore on my paddleboard to catch some manta rays, I’m always in the moment. Everything that seemed important or urgent before fades away when I’m in the water. I can’t imagine my life without being in the water, diving in the world’s oceans, and capturing those moments – that’s what motivates me the most.
What are your top hacks or tips for someone interested in underwater photography but unsure how to begin?
Grab a Camera and Go
It’s getting easier by the day to get into underwater photography, so just get out there and try it for yourself. There are so many cheap and good-quality options today that it’s getting harder and harder to find a reason not to try. You can get an action cam like I did or even take your phone in one of those underwater cases. The thing to know is that underwater photography has a low skill floor but a very high skill ceiling. Almost anyone can take photos underwater, which is great for beginners, but don’t expect to produce award-winning photos on day one. It’s a steep learning curve, but don’t let that throw you off.
Yes, you can always get better cameras, more expensive gear, strobes, video lights, housings, and ports, but all of that is meaningless if you don’t know how to take good photos. Framing, settings, and learning how to operate your camera properly should be your first focus. What it boils down to isn’t the gear; it’s getting out there and actually doing it.
What were some of the trickiest challenges you faced when building your career, and how did you overcome them?
Probably the trickiest thing for me was getting actual experience in the field. I wasn’t born in the Florida Keys or somewhere in Australia where you can just go in the water and get amazing shots of wildlife. I’m from pretty much landlocked Germany, and the only time I got to shoot underwater was on holidays. I’m 19 years old today, but when I started out a couple of years ago, I depended on those two weeks a year, sometimes less, to gain experience and improve.
What I did, which is essential in a career like mine, was networking. I texted, emailed, and called people from all around the world, connected with them, and looked for advice. Not only did that give me valuable insight into a future in underwater photography and marine research, but it also helped me realize opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise had – internships, expeditions, and long-lasting relationships with skilled people from around the world. Although that didn’t immediately give me more time in the water, it helped me gain experience and skills that later allowed me to launch my career when I was old enough.
Being 19 has also come with its own set of challenges. It can sometimes feel harder to be taken seriously because of my age, even though age has nothing to do with skills and capabilities. But I’ve learned to communicate my experience and achievements in ways that help others see that being young is more impressive than limiting.
Can you share any advice on breaking into this niche field, especially for those just starting out?
Stop Looking for Excuses Not To!
It’s scary to take the leap and try something new, but that’s how you know it’s worth doing. Start simple; you don’t need the best equipment. The people with the best gear don’t always take the best photos. Do your research and invest in a setup that works for you.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush into it. Start with the basics of underwater photography and lighting. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with too much equipment, and you don’t want that to take away from the experience. Start simple, get comfortable with your camera, and learn to respect marine life.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to in the underwater photography world – fellow photographers, mentors, or inspirations?
One of the people who got me started with underwater photography is James Ferrara, a world-class underwater photographer. I discovered him on Instagram through one of his tiger shark photos, and I’ve wanted to get a shot like that ever since.
I’ve had great mentors like Lukas Müller, a German shark scientist and freediver. He’s done some amazing work in shark research and conservation, and his actions inspire me to not just take cool photos but to use them to raise awareness and teach others about marine conservation. Another inspiration is Debby Canabal, a shark behaviorist and diving expert. I met her on a tiger shark tour in the Bahamas and later got an internship as the onboard photographer. Since then, she’s mentored me and become a good friend.
What are some of your bucket-list subjects and spots?
On the top of my subject list is the American crocodile. They look so mean and menacing, and I just have to experience being in the water with one of these impressive, prehistoric creatures. I’ve seen saltwater crocs in Australia, but only with a drone – you wouldn’t want to get in the water with those.
I also dream of swimming with orcas. They’re incredibly intelligent and fascinating creatures. Being in the water with them would be an unforgettable privilege.
In terms of places, Raja Ampat in the Indian Ocean has been on my mind for years. The wildlife diversity and healthy reefs are stunning, plus the warm water is a nice bonus! On the flip side, the Norwegian fjords are equally high on my list – especially for the chance to see orcas against the backdrop of snowy mountains.
What’s your personal favorite shot?
That’s tough. I’ve taken thousands of photos, but one that stands out is a silhouette of a tiger shark on a sand flat, taken during my first encounter with one. It’s not the best photo in terms of technical quality or creativity, but it holds sentimental value for me. It was a moment that solidified my desire to make photography my career.
