The Field Guide for Creators — Adventure, Nature, & Science Media

Educational Currents: A Preview of the Scuba Show’s Top Visual Storytelling Seminars

From mastering the art of underwater photography and video storytelling, to optimizing social media presence and exploring uncharted waters, here’s a peek at the seminars at the 2023 Scuba Show that promise to dive deeper into the world of underwater storytelling.
The Scuba Show 2023 at the Long Beach Convention Center

The Scuba Show is returning to the Long Beach Convention Center on June 3-4, 2023. It is expected to draw an audience of around 11,000+ attendees, and the expo will serve as a comprehensive platform for both seasoned divers and newcomers to the underwater world—promising a wealth of knowledge for divers of all levels. But it’s not just about the latest gear and hottest travel destinations.

The Scuba Show is also a platform for learning, with a series of seminars designed to educate, inspire, and ignite a passion for the underwater world. Here are the visual storytelling seminars we’re most looking forward to:

Underwater Photography: A Positive Approach to Negative Space

Speakers: Andy and Allison Sallmon
June 3 (Saturday) 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Underwater photography and capturing negative space of a boat in a cave
Photo by August Politis on Unsplash

The Sallmons promise to help attendees “see” the possibilities of a shot before capturing it. Their seminar will explore the importance of negative space – the area around your subject – and how it can make or break an image. It’s not just about finding an incredible marine creature; it’s also about how you frame it. The session will cover wide-angle and macro photography, as well as special techniques and gear to execute your vision flawlessly.

Underwater Video: How to Tell Your Story with Video

Speaker: Eric Hanauer
June 3 (Saturday) 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Photo by Simon Infanger on Unsplash

A good video requires more than just stunning footage; it also needs a captivating narrative. Eric Hanauer’s session will guide attendees through the process of transforming raw video clips into compelling stories. The seminar will delve into organizing clips, cutting and continuity, scripting and narration, and the effective use of music. It promises to be an invaluable guide for anyone looking to create impactful underwater videos.

Dive into Social Media!

Speaker: Jami Leslie Feldman
June 4 (Sunday) 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

As divers and ocean enthusiasts, how can we effectively use social media? More importantly, how can we make it fun and meaningful? Jami Leslie Feldman’s seminar promises to answer these questions and more. Attendees will learn about impactful posting strategies, creating enjoyable videos, and even get a live demonstration of video editing for Instagram Reels. This seminar aims to empower attendees with the confidence to dive headfirst into social media.

Exploration Diving: What it is… and What Isn’t it?

Speaker: Faith Ortins
June 4 (Sunday) 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Exploration scuba, 2 divers entering a boat
Photo by Vlad Tchompalov on Unsplash

If you’re drawn to the allure of unexplored dive sites and new ecosystems, Faith Ortins’ seminar on exploration diving is a must-attend. She’ll discuss what it means to be an exploration diver, including the necessary dive training and mental preparedness. Attendees will learn about different types of exploration diving and hear about Faith’s expeditions to some of the most remote parts of the world, all aimed at expanding our knowledge and appreciation of undersea life and ecosystems.

Up Close & Personal: Approaching Shy Marine Life

Speaker: Mark Strickland
June 4 (Sunday) 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

For those who love getting up close with marine life, whether for photography or simple observation, Mark Strickland’s seminar is a game-changer. The session will cover techniques to approach shy animals and gain their trust, turning fleeting glimpses into relaxed, intimate encounters. This seminar aims to enhance every dive, making it a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.


Don’t miss out on these insightful sessions!

The 2023 Scuba Show promises to be an enriching and educational experience for all attendees. These seminars, with their focus on improving skills and broadening perspectives, are sure to leave participants eager to put their newfound knowledge to the test in the waters.

Grab your tickets for the 2023 Scuba Show here >