Underwater photography has been the most revered forms of photography for many enthusiasts. It is extremely rewarding and since the oceans offer immense variety of marine life and surroundings, it becomes a challenging experience altogether. The Philippines is popular for its productive marine ecosystems. The waters are enriched and harbor species of fishes, shells, other marine forms and more than 800 species of corals.
There are a number of dive destinations offered by the area, some of which are listed below.
- Anilao Batangas – Located near Manila, it is a popular dive destination offering coral slopes, sandy patches and shallow gardens. There are 24 dive sites, the Cathedral being the most popular among them. It is a roofless cave with a cross and two sea mounts to its sides. The area offers wide varieties for both experienced as well as new divers and underwater photographers.
- Puerto Galera – The Island offers several dive destinations and is a photographer’s fantasy. It has a huge marine diversity and is therefore attractive for the underwater photographers. The place is generally visited between March and October and provides rich environment to the people with cameras.
- Balicasag Island, Bohol – This is one of the best dive sites in the region and is also very popular. It has a wide variety of marine creatures and is located in the heart of the Visayas. The immense variety of marine creatures provides endless photographic possibilities for the underwater photographers.
- Subic Bay – Around 2 and a half hours drive from Manila, Subic Bay offers limitless opportunities to the underwater photographers. Some of the unusual things that can be captured there include wrecks of The USS New York, a vintage battle cruiser from 1941; An Lst, a huge vessel; El Capitan, a small freighter; Seian Maru, a Japanese cargo vessel, and Oryoku Maru, an artificial reef with many species of clown fish, angel fish, lobsters, spotted sweet lip and barracudas.
- Busuanga, Northern Palawan – It is a group of islands that offers several shooting subjects. The wrecks around Coron Bay are the popular subjects for photography. It also offers limestone cliffs, pearl farms and small caves underwater.