The Underwater Podcast

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In episode #63, host Brett Stanley talks with freedive instructor and Florida Springs conservationist David Cobiella about learning comfort and efficiency underwater, comparing freediving and scuba, and protecting the Florida Springs. David shares how he grew up scuba diving, later discovered freediving in the springs, and co-founded a nonprofit to organize underwater cleanups that led him to teaching and guiding. 
They discuss spring access and conditions, the underground cave and river systems, and why David pursued cave-diving certification while dialing back risk. David explains coaching beginners through fear, buoyancy, and safety, including recognizing and responding to shallow-water blackout, and outlines major threats to springs (reduced flow from water extraction and nutrient pollution fueling algae) plus strategies like reforming water-management governance and buying land to prevent overdevelopment.
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In episode #62 host Brett Stanley chats with with Italian photographer Fran Reina, who is now based in Mexico. They talk about her love of water travel and how she transitioned from a dive guide to underwater portrait photographer shooting in the cenote, near Ply del Carmen.
She also lets us in on her business processes, how having a studio assistant made all the difference and what's involved in letting someone else into your business.
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In episode #61 host Brett Stanley chats with surf and underwater photographer Erick Regnard
Erick, along with his brother Ian, created an underwater housing for a 5x4 large format polaroid camera 20 years ago, and shot some incredible photographs with it in Tahiti.
We talk about how they built the camera and housing, the technical issues they had to overcome, and what it’s like to shoot 1 frame an hour for 3 weeks.
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Episode Summary

In this episode of the underwater podcast, the host Brett Stanley interviews surf and underwater photographer Eric Renard, who along with his brother Ian, built an underwater housing for a 4x5 large format Polaroid camera 20 years ago. They shot breathtaking images in Tahiti, overcoming technical challenges, and capturing photos at a rate of one per hour for three weeks. Eric discusses the intricacies of their custom-built camera housing, the pros and cons of using a flat port versus a dome port, their meticulous pre-shot preparations, and the emotional and physical demands of the project. They also touch on the philosophical aspects of photography, the transition from film to digital, and the joy of tackling complex projects. Eric shares insights on their other photographic endeavors, the limitations and occasional frustrations of working with film, and the unique satisfaction derived from creating art the hard way, free from the shortcuts offered by digital technology.
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In episode #60 host Brett Stanley chats with underwater Fine Art photographer Lexi Laine.
Lexi’s work is beautiful and painterly, and mostly shot in the clear waters of the ocean, which adds a level of difficulty for her as she lives in England - not a land known for its visibility - so she travels the world in search of perfect locations to shoot in.
We talk about her approach to photographing in the ocean around Europe, freediving the cenotes of Mexico, and what she likes about selling her work at art shows.
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Episode Summary
What if you could transform the ocean's mystique into ethereal art? Join us as we uncover the world of Lexi Lane, an underwater fine art photographer whose captivating work transports viewers into the magical depths of the ocean. Lexi's passion takes her from the coastal waters of Europe to the hauntingly beautiful cenotes of Mexico, pushing the boundaries of what underwater photography can achieve. Our conversation dives into the logistical and artistic challenges she faces, from choosing between scuba diving and freediving to selling her evocative pieces at art shows.
Lexi shares the technical nuances of her craft, revealing the secrets behind her use of vintage Nikonos cameras and the unpredictability of film over digital formats. We discuss the creative potential of technical errors, the importance of manual control in cameras, and the joys and frustrations of working with strobes underwater. Lexi's journey is a testament to the dedication required to capture the ocean's essence, and her insights offer valuable tips for both aspiring and seasoned photographers.
Our discussion doesn't stop at the technical aspects of underwater photography. Lexi delves into the evolution of her artistic themes, from personal introspection to powerful environmental commentary. She explains how the organic beauty of natural water settings outweighs the controlled environment of a studio pool, and how the use of props can turn a shoot into a storytelling masterpiece. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about underwater art, offering a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice from one of the field's leading talents.
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In episode #59 host Brett Stanley chats with Australian director Nays Baghai about his career in underwater filmmaking.
They talk about his new documentary Diving in to the Darkness, and what it was like to bring the life of renowned Cave Diver Jill Heinerth to the big screen - and the many challenges that came along with it.
Nays talks in detail about the creation of the film, what influences him as a film maker, and how he got his start in underwater way back in film school.
Watch the film during a special screening presented by Scuba Diver Magazine.
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Description
What drives an underwater filmmaker to risk it all for the perfect shot? This week, we sit down with Australian director Nase Baghai, whose passion for marine biology and storytelling has led him to the depths of perilous underwater caves. Nase shares his remarkable transition from a Sydney film student to a groundbreaking documentary filmmaker, shedding light on his latest project, "Diving Into the Darkness," which chronicles the adventurous life of esteemed cave diver Jill Heinerth. Nase reveals how he combines traditional filmmaking with the unique challenges of underwater cinematography to create compelling, authentic documentaries.

Journey with us as we uncover the intricate creative process behind adapting Jill Heinerth's thrilling story from book to screen, featuring a non-linear narrative inspired by masterpieces like "Godfather 2." Nase recounts the serendipitous meeting with Jill at a dive conference that sparked their collaboration, and elaborates on the mutual respect that has fueled their partnership. We also touch on Nase's personal challenges, including his journey to become cave-certified, which allowed him to direct in the high-risk environments where the documentary was filmed. This conversation highlights the dedication and resilience required to bring such powerful real-life stories to the screen.

In our final segments, Nase delves into the complexities of capturing cave diving expeditions on film, emphasizing the critical role of teamwork and meticulous preparation. From assembling a talented crew to mastering underwater communication, Nase shares the logistical hurdles and innovative solutions that make these shoots possible. We also explore his preference for working with a small, agile team, influenced by his documentary background. Hear about his pioneering use of animation to recreate past decades in his films and get a glimpse of his excitement for future projects. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the intersection of filmmaking and underwater exploration.
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