As an underwater photographer, I’ve learned that finding marine life is only part of the equation. The quality of the diving, the amount of time you spend underwater, the skill of the guides, and access to diverse locations can make a huge difference to the images you bring home.
After diving with Atlantis Dive Resorts & Liveaboards, I can genuinely say they offer one of the most photographer-friendly experiences I’ve encountered anywhere in the world.
The Philippines itself is a dream destination for underwater photography. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, it is one of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth. Every dive seems to offer something new, whether you’re searching for tiny critters or hoping for encounters with larger animals.
The diversity is staggering and includes many iconic and sought-after species, including dugongs, thresher sharks, whale sharks, wonderpus octopuses, blue-ringed octopuses, flamboyant cuttlefish, frogfish, mandarinfish, candy crabs, harlequin shrimp, Coleman shrimp, saw-blade shrimp, to name just a few.
One of the things I appreciate most about Atlantis is the variety of diving available. The resorts are located in Puerto Galera and Dauin, both of which are prime diving destinations famous among underwater photographers. Between the two, there is enough diversity to keep photographers busy for weeks.
The liveaboards add another dimension entirely. Their itineraries visit Philippines’ most celebrated dive destinations, including Tubbataha, Apo Reef, Coron, Malapascua, and the Visayas.
For photographers, that means access to everything from pristine reefs and shark encounters to historic wrecks and rare macro subjects.
Furthermore, Atlantis’ set up is great for photography.
Groups are kept small, and the guides are very skilled at spotting marine life. Whether you’re looking for a specific nudibranch, a well-camouflaged frogfish, or an elusive octopus, they seem to have an uncanny ability to find it. Just as importantly, the small group sizes mean you have time to compose your shots without feeling rushed.
The unlimited diving schedule at the resorts is another major advantage. With up to five dives per day at the resorts, there are countless opportunities to revisit subjects, experiment with different techniques, and improve your images. For any serious underwater photographer, that extra time underwater is invaluable.
Whether you’re passionate about macro life, vibrant reefs, historic wrecks, or pelagic encounters, Atlantis provides endless opportunities to create memorable images while exploring some of the Philippines’ finest underwater destinations.
