Underwater photography is one of the most popular diving specialties, and the rise of digital underwater photography has made it easier and more fun than ever. This is why there are actually two PADI underwater photography courses. The PADI Digital Underwater Photographer course gets you going quickly with todays modern digital equipment, whether you use a point-and-shoot snap camera or a sophisticated D-SLR like the pros. The PADI Underwater Photographer course is a more traditional photography course designed for conventional film equipment.
The Fun Part
It’s a great way to relive the adventures you’ve had. Plus capture images to share with your friends and family
Get College Credit
You may be able to earn college credit for the PADI Underwater Photographer Specialty course
What You Learn
- How to choose the right underwater camera system for you
- The PADI SEA method for getting great shots quickly
- The three primary principles for good underwater photos
The Prerequisites for This Course
To enroll, you must be at least 10 years old and have a PADI Open Water Diver or Junior Open Water Diver certification (or a qualifying certification from another organization)
Your Underwater Photography Adventure Dive in the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver / Adventure Diver course credits (at your instructor’s discretion) as the first dive in the PADI Underwater Photographer course
Medical: Prior to taking this scuba class, you will need to complete a Continuing Education/Medical form. Please review this form and determine if you are eligible to take a scuba course or if you will need a doctor to sign-off on your form prior to starting the class. This information is required to enroll or begin any diver training.
Diving Location Options: For completing your course locally, join us at one of three locations: Dutch Springs in Bethlehem, PA; Lake Phoenix in Rawlings, VA; or Hydes Quarry in Westminster, MD. Alternatively visit our Travel Page to join us on one of our fantastic trips to a more exotic locale.
Hydes Quarry (add $30 for day pass)
Close to home
5-10 ft. visibility, stair access to/from water
No frills and no facilities. Training only.
***Camp & Dive Weekend **Recommended** (add $175)
Dutch Springs or Lake Phoenix, 3-4 hour drive
30-40 ft. visibility, large training platforms, easy shore access to/from water
Bath houses with toilets and hot showers, concession stands, and gift shop
Fee includes Scuba Park entrance fee, camping fees for 2 nights, all meals, snacks, and drinks, and unlimited air fills!
Student arrival and setup Friday evening, training conducted Saturday/Sunday
Additional Gear Required: digital underwater camera. This a separate charge from the course fees.
Cancellations or Rescheduling: Cancellations or rescheduling require 48-hour notice. You may reschedule one time at no charge, after that any further adjustments will incur a $50 rescheduling fee per change. Cancellations are subject to a $75 cancellation fee.
Course Time: This course is conducted on site on any of our Open Water weekends. In water training is generally held from 8am-2pm both Saturday and Sunday but may vary based on the course, training location, and instructor scheduling. Studies must be completed by class time.
Note on Rental Gear: For Camp-n-Dive (Dutch Springs) Weekends, rental gear may be picked up 12pm – 7pm Thursday, the week of the event. For Hydes Quarry Weekends, rental gear may be picked up 12pm – 7pm Friday, the week of the event.
Course Dates, pricing and other details: See Calendar Here
Make DAN Your Dive Buddy – Every Dive! Nautilus Aquatics Referral Code: 1486652 Divers Alert Network
