For obvious reasons, gatherings of underwater image makers have been rare over the past few years. The first post-pandemic dive show in the UK was the Go Diving Show, which was held at the Stoneleigh Showgrounds, in the UK’s Midlands from 4 to 6 March. Inevitably, the show was perhaps less well supported by the trade in general, but visitor numbers seemed to be strong, suggesting that there is still a public appetite for these events.
Among other products, Fourth Element has launched a new mask called the Scout.
Dean Martin of Fourth Element modelling the new Scout mask.
It is available in a variety of colors and lens types, including a “Clarity” version that is designed to be super clear and is recommended specifically for photographers. It is available with a white or black skirt.
The Underwater Photographer of the Year Contest was exhibiting its winning images at the show.
Kirsty Andrews with her runner up image in the “British Waters: Living Together” category.
Cathy Holmes with her image that was Runner Up in the Wrecks category.
Paul Petit with his image that won the Most Promising British Underwater Photographer of the Year award.
Yo-Han Cha, Jim Standing, Alex Tattersall and Roisin Maddison
There was a series of talks, including a well attended session with Steve Backshall.
Caroline Robertson-Brown on the Shark’s Trust booth
On a smaller stage, there was a series of underwater photography talks with presenters like Martyn Guess.
The two Peters! Peter Symes of X-Ray International and Peter Rowlands of UwP Magazine
Perhaps incongruously, the show had a shark ride, complete with fake bloody mouth…
Cathy Holmes and Jenny Stock
The highlight of the day was the formal presentation of all the winners of the Underwater Photographer of the Year. Alex Mustard acted as the compere and introduced all the images that were placed, and presented video clips from the winners.
