Where are you from?
Brazil
How long have you been practicing photography?
Since 2012
How long have you been diving?
Since 2009. Certification level: advanced and nitrox, currently working on dive master certification
Is photography your full-time job?
I worked in the corporate world for 20 years, and last year I made the decision to leave my last job to focus more on photography. So now I can say that I'm 100 percent focused on photography.
What’s your favorite camera?
I am really happy with mine: a Canon 5D Mark IV
Have you won any awards before?
Yes, I had the privilege of being awarded in some nice photo contests, including Underwater Photographer of the Year, 35 Awards, One Eyeland, 1839 Awards, etc. However, this is the first time I have won first place in an international underwater photo dedicated contest and I am more than happy with this recognition.
How did you get started in underwater photography?
Underwater photography was my first serious contact with photography in general. After starting my diving life, I wanted to show people the things I was able to see underwater and how amazing this "other world" was. Then, in 2012, I did my first underwater photo course. My first camera was a Canon G12 and after some time using it, I upgraded to a DSLR and decided to go deeper into techniques with different photographers. Since then, I have already done several photo courses with different people and plan to do more in the next years.
Related Reading: How to Pack Your Underwater Photo Gear
Favorite place to shoot underwater?
My favorite place to dive is definitely Galapagos, but it is not an easy place for underwater photography (at least in my opinion). If I need to choose another place based on photo opportunity, I would say Lembeh Strait for macro. In Lembeh, you can see amazing creatures everywhere and can also witness some interesting behaviors.
What's your most unforgettable moment underwater?
Wow, this is a really difficult question. Each dive brings us the most amazing stuff nature wants to share at that moment and I am grateful for all of them. However, if I had to choose only one specific moment, it would be my first dive in Fakarava's South Pass. It was my dream to go there to see the wall of sharks and when this dream came true, it was unbelievable. I literally cried underwater!
What inspires your photography?
Nature overall and other photographers I admire. I am always looking for learning new stuff with different people and different POVs, and this has been crucial for my photographic technique development.
How would you describe your photography style?
I really love sharks overall and behavior shots. I think I will be forever trying to improve and challenge my photo style, but behavior is something I really like and the way I have been developing this is studying a lot in advance the places I will dive, the animals I can find there and their behavior. Of course, you can't force a behavior, but knowing your subject well and knowing what you want to shoot can help get the photos you want.
What's your #1 bucket-list dive destination?
I really want to go to Japan.
What's your advice for underwater shooters entering their first photo contest?
I would tell them to do their homework and study the contests: the winning images from previous years, the judges, the rules (please, read it carefully), and the categories for the current contest. Only after that, I would suggest them to start selecting the photos I think would stand out in the contest. I would also tell them to enjoy the ride and use contests as a tool for them to know new photographers and improve their photography day after day.
My final piece of advice would be: never, ever let the desire to get a good shot outweigh your respect for nature. Respect the animals and photograph with the least interference possible.
Where can we follow your work?
Instagram @fabi_dive
Fabi FregonesiLocation: Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
Behind the Shot This photo captures a Banggai cardinalfish with its tiny offspring nestled safely inside its mouth. This species is known for its unique mouth-brooding behavior, where the male takes on the responsibility of protecting and nurturing the fertilized eggs and, later, the newly hatched fry. During this period, the male refrains from eating, fully committed to safeguarding his young until they are strong enough to swim independently.
Location of Photo Lembeh Strait, Indonesia
Camera Gear Canon 5D Mark IV with a 100mm lens; Nauticam housing; two Inon Z-330 strobes
Settings f/14; 1/250; ISO 100
Prize Belize Aggressor III
