During this dive at the Kiwi House Reef, we spent 86 minutes exploring the underwater world at an average depth of 4 meters. The water temperature was 23.5 degrees Celsius, which was comfortable at first, but with the extended periods of stillness required for photography, it became a bit chilly even with a 5mm wetsuit. Although we are familiar with this dive site, the conditions added an extra challenge; strong currents made it difficult to hold steady while capturing images.
Nonetheless, the vibrant marine life at the reef provided plenty of interesting subjects. Using the Olympus TG-7 with the DivePro continuous light allowed us to reveal intricate details and vivid colors that often go unnoticed in the dynamic underwater environment. The various organisms we photographed showcased the reef’s diversity, with some displaying unique textures and shapes, while others revealed a surprising array of colors when illuminated. One standout moment was capturing the eye of an octopus, where its complex patterns and textures reminded us of the hidden beauty often found beneath the surface.
A key factor in managing the dive and overcoming the challenges was the support from my wife and assistant, Gül Hasirci. While I was fully immersed in the photography, Gül ensured my safety, keeping an eye on the conditions and my surroundings. Her vigilance allowed me to focus entirely on the task at hand, knowing I was in good hands.
This dive, like many others at the Kiwi House Reef, demonstrated that even in familiar waters, the underwater world always has something new to offer. The ever-changing conditions and the diversity of life keep each dive unique, making it worthwhile to return and explore the same site time and time again.