What to Expect from an Underwater Photography Course in South Africa

A Deep Dive into our Program (Pun Intended)

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the raw, vivid energy of the ocean with a camera in hand, South Africa offers one of the most compelling locations on the planet to do just that. With a coastline teeming with biodiversity, dramatic underwater landscapes, and globally recognised dive sites, it’s no wonder underwater photographers are drawn here.

One of the most immersive ways to develop your marine photography skills is through a dedicated underwater photography course—and South Africa’s Aliwal Shoal provides an exceptional setting for this kind of creative deep dive.

Why South Africa? Why Now?

South Africa’s east coast is a hotspot for marine biodiversity, and Aliwal Shoal stands out as a highlight. Just off the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, this fossilised sand dune turned reef system has earned its reputation as one of the top dive sites in the world.

“Aliwal Shoal is a world-renowned dive site, famous for its diverse marine life and unique geological features,” says course instructor Louis Pieterse. “It’s known for its abundance of sharks, including ragged-tooth sharks, tiger sharks, and hammerheads, as well as the presence of two shipwrecks, the Nebo and the Produce. The shoal itself is a fossilized sand dune, adding to its distinctiveness. It’s also a Marine Protected Area, which helps conserve the diverse ecosystem.”

It’s the perfect natural classroom—rich in texture, contrast, and drama—for photographers eager to explore what lies beneath the surface.

A Hands-On Learning Experience Beneath the Surface

This isn’t your typical photography course with a slideshow and a classroom. It’s a full-bodied, saltwater-infused adventure where theory meets practice in real-time, and the ocean is your studio.

Over the course of several days, participants are immersed in the principles and techniques of underwater photography, learning everything from camera housing maintenance to strobe placement, shooting in challenging light, and composing images in motion. You’ll work with seasoned instructors who bring both technical expertise and deep local knowledge of the marine environment.

What sets this course apart is its focus on both creative development and environmental awareness. As Louis Pieterse explains:

“Underwater photography is special because it captures the unique beauty and mystery of the underwater world, revealing the intricate details of marine life and ecosystems… The challenges of working in an underwater environment, such as limited visibility, strong currents, and specialized equipment, require photographers to be creative, patient, and skilled. The results are often breathtaking… By capturing the beauty and diversity of the underwater world, photographers can raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation and inspire people to protect these incredible ecosystems.”

In other words, this course isn’t just about mastering settings and angles—it’s about storytelling and impact.

Find out about upcoming dates!

What You’ll Learn

Whether you’re relatively new to underwater photography or looking to refine your existing skills, the course is designed to meet you where you are. Topics covered typically include:

• Understanding and maintaining underwater camera equipment
• Exposure and lighting in aquatic environments
• Wide-angle vs macro techniques
• Composition and motion
• Post-processing for underwater images
• Best practices for ethical wildlife photography

There’s also a strong emphasis on adapting to conditions—how to shoot in low visibility, how to work with fast-moving subjects, and how to stay safe while doing it all.

Who Should Join This Course?

This course is ideal for keen photographers who are comfortable in the water and eager to push their creative boundaries. You don’t need to be a professional diver, but basic diving certification and confidence in open water are required. If you’re a novice diver, we can offer you a PADI course that you can do before you start the photography course. You’ll just have to come a week early.

The course is especially well-suited for:

• Photographers looking to expand their portfolio with compelling marine imagery
• Divers who want to bring storytelling into their underwater adventures
• Conservation-minded creatives who want their images to make an impact
• Anyone seeking a hands-on, guided experience in one of the world’s most captivating underwater locations

Final Thoughts

An underwater photography course in South Africa is not just a skill-building exercise—it’s a transformative experience. You’ll leave with more than just striking images; you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the ocean’s delicate ecosystems and the role photographers can play in their preservation. And with Aliwal Shoal as your backdrop, every dive holds the potential for extraordinary encounters—and unforgettable frames.