Robert Herb Photography Blog

Here is an AI image depicting the contrast between natural light and strobe lighting techniques in an underwater scene. When capturing stunning images underwater, deciding between natural lighting and strobes to illuminate your shots is crucial. Each method presents distinct benefits and hurdles. Discerning the best situations for each and understanding how to leverage them can significantly elevate your photographs' quality and visual appeal. Let's examine each form of lighting in depth and consider its advantages and disadvantages. I also include some examples of what I have found to be good and bad shots to use. The Beauty and Limitations of Natural Light Advantages: Authentic Look and Feel : Natural light captures the underwater world as it truly is. The soft, ambient light gives your photos a more organic and realistic look, particularly in shallow waters where sunlight can penetrate effectively. Freedom and Mobility : You can move more f...

An AI-generated image of an underwater photographer using VR . How VR is revolutionizing underwater photography by creating immersive experiences. I recently had an interesting discussion with a couple of photographers who are either in the process of using VR for underwater photography or are already using it. During one of my interviews, I had the opportunity to experience a VR dive and was truly amazed by the experience. Below is a summary of what I learned from my interviews. I have to clarify that I am not currently using VR for my work, so this information is second-hand but still very interesting. The field of underwater photography is rapidly evolving, and one of the most exciting advancements on the horizon is the integration of Virtual Reality (VR). This technology isn't just about creating immersive experiences for viewers; it's also transforming the way we capture, process, and share underwater images. In this post, I will explore how VR is changing underwater photo...

This AI image shows the contrast between older camera technology and results achievable through tools like Adobe Lightroom. The Evolution of Underwater Photography Introduction For years, the gold standard in underwater photography was straightforward: the more advanced and expensive your camera, the better your photos would be. This notion drove countless photographers to invest in high-end gear, believing cutting-edge camera technology was the key to capturing the vibrant, mysterious world beneath the waves. However, as time has passed, a significant shift has occurred. Today, the focus has increasingly moved away from expensive hardware to the powerful post-processing tools that allow photographers to enhance and perfect their images in ways previously unimaginable. In this blog, I'll dive into why this shift is happening and how mastering tools like Adobe Lightroom can empower you to create stunning underwater images without needing the latest camera technology. Today when aske...

How to Narrate Compelling Stories with Your Photos Underwater photography is more than just capturing beautiful images; it's about narrating a compelling story. Following these steps, you can tell engaging stories through your underwater photos, with the "Spotted Drum" fish as our example. 1. Plan Your Story Before you dive, decide the narrative you want to capture. For instance, with the "Spotted Drum", you might focus on its behavior, habitat, and interactions within the reef. Think about the beginning, middle, and end of your story to create a cohesive narrative. 2. Research Your Subject Understanding the Spotted Drum's behavior and habitat will help you anticipate moments worth capturing. Spotted Drum are known for their distinctive juvenile and adult stages, each with unique patterns and behaviors. Knowing their peak activity times and preferred hiding spots can significantly enhance your storytelling. 3. Compose Thoughtfully Composition is key to story...