Where are you from?
Hong Kong
How long have you been practicing photography?
Since 2021
How long have you been diving?
Since 2013. PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor.
Is photography your full-time job?
I am a scuba instructor.
What’s your favorite camera?
The one I have now, OM System OM-1.
Have you won any awards before?
No. This is my first one, and I can't describe how happy I am right now.
How did you get started in underwater photography?
My friend lent me a TG-6 back in 2021, and I've been obsessed with underwater photography since then. It is incredibly rewarding when I am able to capture these beautiful underwater creatures and scenes. To share them with my family, my friends and also my students who just discovered this magnificent underwater world is even more rewarding.
Favorite place to shoot underwater?
Hong Kong without doubt. From murky water to reefs that are destroyed by illegal trawling, the conditions are quite challenging to get a banger shot. To get an award-winning shot taken in Hong Kong would be my ultimate goal.
Related Reading: 3 Underwater Photo Skills You Should Master
What's your most unforgettable moment underwater?
Hong Kong is not famous for the visibility and blue water for sure. But in September 2022, I was so lucky to dive in a 20-meter vis clear blue water in Hong Kong, which happens probably only once in a decade. Seeing the entire reef covered by colorful soft corals is really something else. Although that perfect condition lasted less than a week, it is indeed very touching to witness such a beautiful moment in the place where I belong.
What inspires your photography?
To showcase marine life at my best. So that ultimately it can draw people's attention to marine conservation. Also, Dr. Alexander Mustard. Appreciate how he generously shares everything underwater photography-related in his books, website and YouTube, etc.
How would you describe your photography style?
To be honest, I'm still exploring different styles. Trial and error for me as of now.
What's your #1 bucket-list dive destination?
Galapagos
What's your advice for underwater shooters entering their first photo contest?
Try a different angle or method that you have never seen someone else do before.
Where can we follow your work?
Instagram kl_diving
Related Reading: How to Photograph Nudibranchs
Kelvin LeungLocation: Anilao, Philippines
Behind the Shot Here, within a huge, intricate, maze-like brain coral, a few curious blennies were found thriving at 65 feet deep in Anilao. The coral’s narrow crevices make a perfect hideout for the blennies from their predators. Good diving skills and patience were necessary. I carefully adjusted my lights, ensuring I didn’t startle this cooperative little one. A slow shutter created this dreamy background.
Location of Photo Anilao, Philippines
Camera Gear OM System OM-1 with M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS Pro lens; AOI housing; Backscatter Mini Flash and Optical Snoot; X-Adventurer M2500
Settings f/6.3; 1/10; ISO 200
Prize All Star Scuba Scene Red Sea
