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My Cuba assignment is for the Aggressor Fleet’ s new vessel, there will also be additional equipment to take for lighting interiors of the boat, shooting lifestyle photos and I will need a greater variety of lenses and remote flash transmitters than a‘ normal’ diving commission to accomplish the task. Testing everything before packing will take a day to make sure all is working properly.
Where are your favourite locations to work? This is a very difficult question to answer. There are places I have not yet experienced and other ones I would love to return to. Each has their own personality and subject focus. Galapagos and Socorro for big animals, many islands in Indonesia to update my content and the Maldives to check the status of the reefs since my last visit several years ago. The one location I never tire of is Papua New Guinea( PNG) and I have just completed my 31st trip to this amazing country.
Often divers visit a location for the marine life experience, but what PNG has taught me is not to ignore the people and diverse culture on any trip. These island nations have important stories to tell and the connection of the marine environment health with the people who depend on it for their livelihoods is fascinating and important. I have witnessed underwater photographers who are not interested in photographing the local people. I try to explain why they should. Sustainable oceans are not just for our privileged benefit, they are also vital to the health of the village communities that line the shores that we visit.
Do you use a packing list or some other method to ensure you take everything you need? I have three basic lists: 1. Underwater and topside equipment for marketing images and diving stories for publications 2. Gear for terrestrial wildlife imagery such as in Africa where long lenses are needed 3. Photo tour kit list for teaching in the field. I also have details of all my equipment with serial numbers and value for any questions from customs and for insurance purposes. About once a year I have my equipment and list inspected by U. S. Customs officers so that I don’ t have to repeatedly discuss whether it all is my own equipment or for resale. I have been stopped before and don’ t want to go through that process again.
01 Michele with her full Seacam kit while on tour
02 Giant manta( Manta briostris) being photographed by divers. Isla Revillagigedo, Mexico