MASTERING THE BUBBLE BOKEH

Looking to explore a new photography style? Tobias Friedrich tells of how he stumbled upon the bubble bokeh effect, and shares some tips on how to achieve this dreamy look

Underwater photographers are constantly looking for new techniques and styles to impress. With the technology available in today’s digital age, anyone can easily create stunning images by experimenting with camera settings and photo-editing software. While this is wonderful in creating opportunities for aspiring photographers, a saturation in photo creativity has been reached, and finding fresh ideas has become difficult.

To win underwater photography competitions, copying the styles that others have created won’t win you first place. A replicated style will not impress judges and viewers who have already seen similar images – the effect would simply not be the same. So how can we get new ideas or inspiration? This is actually the hardest but most creative part of underwater photography.

A pair of clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) with bubble bokeh backgroundABOVE RIGHT

ABOVE Backlit seahorse with bubble bokeh background