As for basic underwater photography I recommend you pick up one of many books on the subject. You can find PADI text kits at Rick's, and we also offer underwater photography courses to help you fine tune your skills. Most of these courses are geared towards the more expensive cameras such as Nikonos or housed cameras but even with a basic "point and shoot" like the Reefmaster, the class will help you to develop and improve your skills.

When taking underwater pictures remember that distance is distorted so it may take you some practice (and a few rolls of film) before you get the hang of judging distance. Also...you are limited to a range far less than on land. Even though the Reefmaster's booklet says to take pictures "from 2 ft to infinity"......your not going to be able to get a good panorama shot. Ten to Twelve feet is probably the farthest clear shot you'll get underwater (depending on lighting depth, subject, etc). After that the pictures are VERY blue.

If you are using the 3x close up lens you must stay within the 2-4 ft. range. I have had many a "great shot" of nudibranches and tiny reef shrimp, even a Harlequin shrimp that was a big blurry mess because I was too close.

Obviously, marine life isn't going to sit still and pose for you. Often I find myself stalking my subjects. I find it works best to swim with the camera extended in front of me instead of pushing it out at the last minute which often makes the fish disappear pretty quick. The biggest keys to getting the great shots are patience and a little luck--being in the right spot at the right time. It never fails, the one dive you don't take your camera the most incredible, you won't believe it subjects will be there. Trust me, I speak from experience on this one!

Above all.........practice, practice, practice. Come use our pool, then go out and practice some more. You will not get 24 great shots. sometimes you will be lucky if you have one or two. This is normal, even for those that have been taking pictures for years. There is definitely science and art to underwater photography, but there is some luck involved too.

As for film, I 200 or 400 ASA. You can use slower or faster speed depending on conditions (see the Reefmaster's booklet). I have talked to some who have used slide film in the Reefmaster with really good results. Remember that slide film is less forgiving though and more expensive to develop as well, so I wouldn't undertake that until you've had plenty of practice first.