Diploma in Underwater and Maritime Photography
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Underwater and Maritime Photography
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of underwater photography, combining professional underwater photography techniques with capturing the beauty of the marine environment. Learn to master the challenges of underwater lighting, composition in motion, and the use of specialized equipment to create striking and memorable images. This program provides you with the skills needed to document marine life, explore shipwrecks, and capture the essence of coastal landscapes.
Distinctive Advantages
- Practical Dives: Guided underwater photography sessions led by experienced professionals.
- Advanced Techniques: Master macro photography, wide-angle photography, and digital editing to optimize your results.
- Professional Equipment: Access to state-of-the-art underwater photography equipment during the practical sessions.
- Maritime Specialization: Learn to photograph ships, ports, and coastal life from a unique perspective.
- Networking: Connect with other photography enthusiasts and maritime professionals.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 01-10-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Marine biologists and oceanographers who want to document and communicate ocean life and marine ecosystems in an impactful way.
- Professional and recreational divers who want to enhance their underwater photography skills and create high-quality images.
- Nature and adventure photographers interested in expanding their portfolio into the fascinating underwater and marine world.
- Tour guides and dive operators who want to enhance the promotion of their services with attractive and professional images.
- Photography and visual communication students who are looking for a unique specialization in the field of underwater photography.
Learning flexibility
 Adapted to your pace: online classes live and recorded sessions, practice in diverse aquatic environments and personalized tutoring for your progress.
Objectives and competencies
Documenting and visually communicating the marine environment:
“Create effective infographics and multimedia presentations to raise awareness about marine conservation and its challenges.”
Mastering lighting techniques in aquatic environments:
“Control turbidity, refraction, and light absorption to optimize visibility and visual appeal.”
Applying photographic techniques for marine conservation:
Documenting the state of ecosystems, species and threats through high-quality images, using specialized equipment and methodologies for subsequent research and dissemination.
Create impactful visual narratives about marine life:
“Mastering composition, lighting, and editing techniques to communicate the beauty and fragility of marine ecosystems, raising awareness and promoting conservation.”
Use specialized equipment and software for underwater and marine photography:
“Configure and maintain housings, lenses, lighting, and remote control systems for optimal capture.”
Develop skills for editing and post-production of underwater images:
Master editing software, color correction, particle removal and stabilization, to enhance the visual and narrative quality of underwater videos and images.
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to Advanced Underwater Photography: Challenges and Opportunities
- Physics of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, and Color
- Advanced Lighting Equipment: Flashes, Spotlights, and Hybrid Systems
- Creative Lighting Techniques: Side Lighting, Backlighting, Snoots
- Underwater Composition: Rule of Thirds, Guidelines, Symmetry
- Using Models and Divers in Composition
- Natural Lighting Techniques: Harnessing the Sun and Backlighting
- Post-Processing Underwater Images: Color Correction, Sharpening, and Reduction noise.
- Ethics and conservation in underwater photography.
- Case study analysis: Renowned underwater photographers.
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- Introduction to Advanced Underwater Photography and Videography
- Principles of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, and Refraction
- Underwater Lighting Equipment: Flashes, Spotlights, and Flashlights
- Stroboscopic Lighting Techniques: Synchronization, Power, and Positioning
- Continuous Lighting: White Balance, Color Temperature, and Diffusers
- Underwater Composition: Rule of Thirds, Guidelines, and Symmetry
- Focusing Techniques: Manual Focus, Autofocus, and Prefocus
- Using Filters: Color Filters, Polarizing Filters, and ND Filters
- Post-production of underwater images and videos: color correction, sharpening, and noise reduction.
- Ethics and conservation in underwater photography and videography.
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- Introduction to Underwater Photography: History, Evolution, and Pioneers.
- Basic Principles of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, and Color.
- Underwater Photography Equipment: Cameras, Housings, Lenses, and Flashes.
- Underwater Lighting Techniques: Natural Light, Flash, Snoots, and Modifiers.
- Underwater Composition: Rules, Perspective, Points of Interest, and Guidelines.
- Underwater Exposure: Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO.
- White Balance: Adjustments and Color Correction in Post-Production.
- Focusing Techniques: Autofocus, Manual Focus, and Pre-focus.
- Visual Storytelling
Underwater photography: Telling stories through images.
Ethics and conservation in underwater photography.
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- Introduction to underwater photography: history, pioneers, and evolution
- Photographic equipment for aquatic environments: cameras, housings, lenses, and flashes
- Basic principles of photography: exposure, aperture, ISO, and shutter speed underwater
- Lighting in underwater photography: natural light, flashes, and artificial lighting techniques
- Underwater photographic composition: composition rules adapted to the aquatic environment
- Focusing and sharpening techniques in low-visibility conditions
- Macro photography in aquatic environments: equipment, techniques, and special considerations
- Wide-angle photography in aquatic environments: equipment, techniques, and creative perspectives
- Ethics and conservation in underwater photography: respect for the environment and species
- Processing and Underwater photography editing: workflow and image optimization
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- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to Underwater Photography: History and Evolution
- Basic Principles of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, Color
- Underwater Photography Equipment: Cameras, Housings, Lenses, Flashes
- Equipment Preparation: Assembly, Waterproof Testing, Maintenance
- Lighting Techniques: Natural Light, External Flashes, Snoots
- Underwater Composition: Rule of Thirds, Guidelines, Perspective
- Focus and Depth of Field: Techniques for Sharpness Underwater
- White Balance: Color Correction in Underwater Photography
- Developing and Editing Underwater Photographs: Software and Techniques
- Ethics and Conservation: good practices for responsible photography
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Career opportunities
- Professional Underwater Photographer: I work on documentaries, advertising, media, and marine research projects.
- Diving and Underwater Photography Guide: Leading photographic dives, teaching techniques, and advising divers.
- Marine Conservation Image Specialist: Photographic documentation for NGOs, scientific institutions, and environmental protection projects.
- Underwater Camera Operator for ROVs/AUVs: Operating remote equipment for underwater inspection, research, and exploration.
- Marine Wildlife Photographer: Capturing images for books, magazines, and exhibitions, contributing to biodiversity awareness.
- Visual Content Creator for Maritime Tourism: Producing photographic and audiovisual material to promote destinations and activities aquatic.
- Underwater Photography Equipment Consultant: Technical advice and sales of specialized equipment.
- Underwater Archaeology Researcher and Documentarian: Photographic record of submerged sites and historical remains.
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Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Master the technique: Learn to capture stunning images in underwater and marine environments.
- Specialized equipment: Discover the use and maintenance of photographic equipment for extreme conditions.
- Composition and visual storytelling: Develop your creativity to tell stories through photography.
- Professional post-production: Perfect your images with advanced editing tools.
- Certification: Earn a recognized diploma to boost your career as an underwater photographer.
Testimonials
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from handling equipment in different marine conditions to composing and editing stunning underwater photographs. Now I feel capable of capturing the beauty of the underwater world with professionalism and creativity.
The Nautical Photography & Film diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from composition and lighting in aquatic environments to drone operation and video editing with a narrative focus. Now I can capture the beauty and excitement of the nautical world with a professional perspective, opening up new possibilities in my career.
The Diploma in Underwater and Marine Photography exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from handling equipment in challenging environments to composition and editing to highlight the beauty of the underwater world. The open-sea practicals were crucial for honing my skills and developing a portfolio that led to my first publication in a specialized magazine. Thanks to the comprehensive training and practical approach of the diploma program, I now feel confident and competent to work professionally as an underwater photographer.
This diploma program exceeded my expectations. I acquired solid technical and practical knowledge, from equipment handling to the composition and editing of underwater and marine images. The open-water practicals were invaluable, allowing me to capture stunning photographs that are now part of my professional portfolio. Thanks to this training, I secured a collaboration with a nature magazine, publishing my photographs and opening doors for me in the world of specialized photography.
Frequently asked questions
Underwater and marine.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Underwater and marine environment.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Underwater Photography: History and Evolution
- Physics of Light Underwater: Absorption, Scattering, and Color
- Underwater Photography Equipment: Cameras, Housings, Lenses, and Flashes
- Equipment Preparation: Assembly, Watertight Testing, and Maintenance
- Lighting Techniques: Using Flashes, Diffusers, and Natural Light
- Composition in Underwater Photography: Rules, Perspectives, and Framing
- Diving Techniques for Photographers: Neutral Buoyancy, Fin Control, and Safety
- Marine Wildlife Photography: Animal Behavior, Approach, and Ethics
- Processing and Editing Underwater Images: Color Correction and Sharpening
- Marine conservation through photography: documentation and dissemination
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Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. SofĂa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĂa Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.