Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 2/2016 | Page 29

PHOTO/VIDEO SPEAKERS www.adex.asia SWITZERLAND/FRANCE Kurt Amsler Voice of the Ocean Guest Judge Film Festival Presenter Kurt Amsler’s passion for all things aquatic was shaped by growing up in Waedenswil on Lake Zürich, Switzerland. In 1985, he had the opportunity to work as a cameraman alongside Hans Hass in producing the documentary The Maldives – Paradise Transformed, which became a career highlight. His 2014 film documented the birth of a sperm whale, something that had never been witnessed before, and became Kurt’s most treasured experience in 50 years of underwater photography. Kurt’s organisation “SOS Seaturtles” has been fighting for over two decades to preserve these endangered marine reptiles. www.sos-seaturtles.ch TOPICS Photo Video Zone THE FIRST BREATH!: Capturing a one-of-a-kind shot of a sperm whale giving birth. FRANCE Laurent Ballesta Film Festival Presenter Book Festival Speaker Laurent Ballesta grew up with a passion for underwater life, which led him to study marine biology. This culminated in a master’s degree and the discovery of a species of fish hitherto unknown in the Western Mediterranean. Combining his passion for underwater photography with his work as a biologist, Laurent has published portfolios in the top French and international magazines, and is the only three-time first prize winner in the World Festival of Underwater Images. www.andromede-ocean.com TOPICS Main Stage GOMBESSA EXPEDITIONS: Discover what defines these special expeditions, and what they all have in common. Photo Video Zone SLOW MOTION AND BURST MODE: Using slow motion and burst mode to observe animal behaviours. Speakers and topics are subject to change. Please check www.adex.asia for updates.