INTRO AND EDITOR’S NOTE

Macro Mania

There’s something fascinating about seeing the underwater world up close, in all its glorious detail. Looking at images that bring out the colours, texture and detail of an animal in a single frame is in itself very compelling.

Larger Than Life

It’s hard for the human eye to see these creatures clearly unless they’re under a magnifying glass, and it becomes especially challenging underwater. So photographers who manage to capture their essence and beauty must be applauded for their patience, tenacity and skill in displaying the animal’s best sides in creative ways.

In the decades I have been diving, and watching macro photographers work, I’ve come to learn that in order to get these stunning images, it is essential to understand how the subject behaves, moves and interacts with its environment. That’s how they decide if it’s a good subject to photograph, and are able to predict where and how they can capture its image.

I’m always excited when my photographer buddies show off their macro images during our dive trips. It’s really a different experience seeing the same creature on a dive (especially with my aging eyes) and in a photograph, where I can zoom in on all the details I missed. It all adds to the enjoyment of the encounter with said creatures.

Centre Stage

In this “Tiny but Mighty” issue, the critters may be small, but they have the power to bring photographers to their knees (literally, for some!). Whenever I see photographers prostrating on the sand or rubble, I imagine they are the lucky ones paying homage to an otherworldly specimen, where other unworthy humans only get to encounter their images. That’s why I’ve placed the animals in categories, instead of by photographer. Here, you will be able to truly appreciate these subjects in all their detail and texture.

My gratitude goes to all the photographers who have contributed to the issue and indulged me with their stunning images: Aaron Wong, Anna Manzel, BK Chin, Chyn Wei Lee, East Pardillo, Ee Lin, Jeen Snidvongs, Jim Chen, Jonathan Lin, Libbie Tan, Lilian Koh, Mike Bartick, Patrick Neumann, Pipat Cat Kosumlaksamee, Renee Capozzola, Thomas Zumbrunnen, Tofer Morales, Trina Biazon, Penn De Los Santos and William Tan.

Live, laugh, love, Sol Foo Editor